19980529046369A

(.4)Before takeoff, the airplane was loaded with 1,600 pounds of fertilizer to be applied on local rice fields. The pilot initiated a takeoff on a 2,300 foot grass airstrip. He stated that during the takeoff roll to the north, with a 5 to 8 knot crosswind from the west, the engine had a partial loss of power, and 'the tailwheel would not come up.' He released the load from the 300 gallon hopper, and the airplane became airborne. The main landing gear impacted the top of trees and subsequently impacted a levee. The pilot managed to continue flying, and proceeded to a 3,800 turf airstrip where emergency equipment was standing by. During the emergency landing, the landing gear collapsed, and the airplane nosed over. No reason was found for the reported loss of engine power. (-23) the pilot tried to take off on short field (2,300 feet ) with high density altitude and variable winds. The pilot dumped part of load in an attempt to climb, but the main gear struck a levee and separated from the aircraft. Upon landing at the main base, the aircraft skidded and flipped over.