Accident Overview
Witnesses observed the aircraft experiencing difficulties shortly after takeoff. It assumed a nose-high attitude, veered to the right, and subsequently crashed. The impact occurred with the aircraft in a nose-down attitude.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination revealed the landing gear was in the down and locked position. The left propeller was twisted and curled in the direction opposite to normal rotation, with chordwise scratches consistent with ground impact. The right propeller showed no evidence of rotational damage and was not feathered. Fuel quantity measurements indicated approximately 40 gallons of fuel in the left tanks, while the right fuel tanks contained virtually no fuel. The right tanks were not ruptured.
Pilot Information
The pilot did not hold a multi-engine rating. Review of the pilot's logbook revealed no entries indicating dual multi-engine instruction or compliance with a biennial flight review.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was equipped with a Robertson STOL kit, STC SA-2313-WE, which increased its gross weight to 3,800 pounds. The last annual inspection was conducted on January 10, 1983.