Incident Summary
During takeoff, the aircraft climbed to an estimated altitude of 100 to 200 feet before it began losing altitude. The pilot executed a forced landing onto a street, during which the aircraft struck a parked car and a light pole, then burst into flames. The pilot later expired.
Pilot Statements
The pilot reported that neither engine developed full power (2,575 RPM). He noted that this condition was not unusual when power was first applied, but that full RPM was generally obtained shortly after the takeoff roll began. However, after being committed to takeoff, both engines' RPM readings were reportedly between 2,300 and 2,400.
Witness Reports
Several witnesses stated that the engines sounded as if they were running rough. One witness reported that the aircraft swerved, suggesting the pilot had difficulty with the left engine. Additionally, witnesses reported that the pilot lowered the flaps further beyond the 20-degree takeoff setting in an effort to maintain lift, and raised the landing gear immediately after lift-off.
Mechanical Findings
Engine teardowns revealed excessive spark plug gaps. On the right engine, the magneto had a point gap of 0.008 inch, whereas 0.016 inch was required. Additionally, the #1 and #4 distributor blocks were cracked, and the #1 and #6 ignition leads would not fire properly. The aircraft was equipped with Hartzell F-6-5A propeller governors instead of the specified F-6-35A governors. The aircraft was approximately 348 pounds over its maximum weight limit.