Incident Overview
Approximately 20 minutes after departure, the pilot reported that the right engine had lost power and the aircraft could not maintain altitude. Air traffic control provided vectors for an emergency landing, but the aircraft crashed in a wooded area about three miles from the airport. Evidence indicated that the landing gear and flaps had been extended, and the aircraft had entered a turn before impact.
Examination Findings
Post-crash examination revealed that both propellers showed evidence of low to moderate power, and neither propeller had been feathered. The right turbocharger exhibited asymmetrical wear on its blades. The thrust spacer, part number 406990-9004, was worn, and there was evidence of oil leakage. The right engine oil system, with a capacity of 13 quarts, contained only 6.85 quarts of oil remaining. Both turbochargers had been installed during an annual inspection in April 1983 and had previously been overhauled.
Aircraft and Operational Factors
The aircraft was estimated to be 844 pounds over its maximum weight limit, and the aft center of gravity limit was exceeded by approximately 4.8 inches. Six of the passengers were not restrained by seat belts. An associate estimated that the pilot had only 4 to 6 hours of rest in the previous three to four days.