Incident Overview
A private certificated pilot conducting a personal flight under 14 CFR Part 91 experienced difficulties before takeoff from a remote departure area approximately 900 feet in length. The pilot reported a prior issue with the airplane's charging system. When attempting to start the engine for departure, he found the battery dead.
Pre-Takeoff Actions
To start the engine, the pilot placed the magneto switch on the left magneto position and manually hand-propped the engine. He then initiated the takeoff roll, which he noted was longer than expected.
Collision on Takeoff
To avoid trees at the end of the departure area, the pilot applied left rudder to maneuver past them. During this maneuver, the right horizontal stabilizer and right elevator collided with high brush. The airplane became airborne, and the pilot continued to his destination, approximately 8 miles away.
Post-Landing Discovery
Upon landing, the pilot observed substantial damage to the stabilizer and elevator. He also discovered that the magneto switch had remained in the left magneto position throughout the flight; he had not selected the "both" magneto position prior to takeoff, which reduced available engine power.