Accident Description
The pilot reported that during the takeoff roll, as the airplane accelerated to 40 mph, the engine sputtered. He reduced power, noting that sufficient runway remained to stop. However, the sputter ceased, and he added power to continue the takeoff attempt. The engine sputtered a second time, and the pilot again reduced engine power. Concerned about the length of runway remaining, he elected to steer off the left side of the runway rather than risk going off the end and down a ditch. As the airplane departed the left side of the runway, it struck a runway sign and came to rest upright.
Damage and Examination
During the accident sequence, the airplane sustained substantial damage to the aft fuselage and empennage. The pilot subsequently defueled and moved the airplane before it was examined by a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector. As a result, the inspector was unable to verify the fuel quantity or determine if any fuel contamination was present. The inspector's subsequent examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any preimpact mechanical failures.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no other preimpact mechanical malfunctions. He further stated that he should have aborted the takeoff earlier.