Accident Details
An airline transport certificated pilot was departing from a turf-surfaced runway in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. The runway measured 2,313 feet in length and 50 feet in width. According to the pilot, the preflight inspection and engine run-up were normal. Full engine power was applied for the takeoff roll, and the engine rpm gauge indicated 1,850 rpm, which the pilot described as normal. The pilot reported raising the tail at 40 mph and lifting off at 60 mph. However, the airplane did not accelerate further and only gained about 10 feet above the runway.
Pilot Actions
Concerned that the airplane was not capable of climbing over trees near the departure end of the runway, the pilot closed the throttle. The airplane had drifted to the right side of the runway and was heading toward trees along the right side. The airplane touched down along the right side of the runway, and the right wing collided with brush, turning the airplane 180 degrees.
Damage and Witness Observations
The airplane sustained damage to the wings and fuselage, coming to rest near the departure end of the runway. Two pilot-rated witnesses reported that the airplane drifted to the right during the takeoff roll, with the main landing gear tires outside the runway edge lights.
Pilot Report and Engine Testing
In the Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (NTSB Form 6120.1/2) submitted by the pilot, the pilot's narrative statement indicated that the airplane experienced an engine power failure, and he checked "yes" on the portion of the report for mechanical malfunction/failure. Following recovery of the airplane to a salvage yard, the engine was started and ran at 1,750 rpm.
Weather Conditions
The pilot reported that weather conditions included light and variable winds, with a temperature of about 80 degrees Fahrenheit.