Accident Description
During the takeoff roll, shortly after the landing gear was retracted, the left engine lost power. The pilot reported that he felt the power loss at approximately the same time he turned off the landing lights. The left engine manifold pressure gauge indicated 25 inches of mercury, and believing that some power remained, the pilot did not feather the propeller. Subsequently, the aircraft turned to a heading of about 035 degrees and crashed into trees.
Environmental Conditions
The area surrounding the airport is wooded with rising hills.
Investigation Findings
An investigation disclosed that the aircraft was loaded at or above its maximum gross weight limit, and the center of gravity was aft of the rear limit. Examination of the cockpit revealed that the left engine magneto switches, located immediately above the landing light switches, were in the 'off' position, while the landing light switches were in the 'on' position.