NTSB Identification: NYC97LA184. Accident occurred Sunday,
September 21, 1997 in EASTON, NY Probable Cause Approval Date:
10/30/1998 Aircraft: Cessna 150L, registration: N6865G Injuries:
1 Serious.   A witness reported, the airplane's engine ran 'real
rough' when started, and the pilot waited 30 to 45 minutes to
warm the engine before departing. During the initial takeoff
climb, the airplane's engine lost power. Unable to climb, the
pilot attempted to perform an emergency landing, and the
airplane struck trees. Examination of the airplane's engine
revealed that the number three cylinder exhaust valve was stuck
in the open position. The airplane had flown about 35 hours
since its most recent annual inspection, which was performed on
7/13/94.   mechanical binding of the number three exhaust valve,
and the pilot/owner's improper planning/decision by failing to
ensure the engine was operating properly before takeoff. A
related factor was: the pilot/owner's failure to ensure that
annual maintenance was performed.