Accident Sequence
The airplane sustained substantial damage when it impacted trees and terrain following a loss of engine power after takeoff. The incident occurred on the third takeoff, approximately 900 feet above ground level, when the engine rpm began to drop and the stall warning horn activated. The pilot held the throttle full in, but engine speed decreased to less than 1,000 rpm.
Pilot Report
As the airplane lost altitude, it passed just above power lines. The pilot observed a golf course and a road, and the airplane began to buffet. He decided to land on the golf course fairway. During the approach, the left wing stalled, causing the airplane to roll left. The pilot pushed the nose over and recovered just before the right wing struck a tree. The airplane subsequently crashed on the fairway.
Postaccident Inspection
Examination of the engine revealed that the #1 and #3 cylinder spark plugs were fouled, and the #3 exhaust valve was bent. These conditions likely resulted in the loss of engine power. No other anomalies were noted. The engine had accumulated 1,749 service hours since new and had not undergone an overhaul.