Engine Power Loss After Takeoff Results in Wheels-Up Landing (N3582B)

Event Summary

Following takeoff, the left engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot feathered the left engine and continued the flight on the remaining engine, returning to the runway. However, during the landing approach, the aircraft overshot the intended touchdown point. To avoid overrunning the runway and colliding with a ditch, the pilot elected to land on the grass with the landing gear retracted.

Post-Event Inspection

Subsequent examination of the aircraft's engine and ignition system revealed several discrepancies:

• An exhaust valve leak on cylinder number 4.
• The top spark plug gap on cylinder number 1 measured 0.000.
• The lower ignition lead on cylinder number 1 was internally shorted.
• Spark plugs on cylinder number 5 were found loose.
• The lower ignition lead shield on cylinder number 2 was broken, exposing the ignition wire.
• On cylinder number 4, the lower ignition lead's cigarette spring was cut and stretched.
• The upper ignition leads on cylinders 2, 4, and 6 showed occasional open circuits.
• The right magneto's "P" lead was intermittently grounded internally at the magneto connection.