On October 10, 1986, a Piper PA-30 (registration N7982Y) operated by Bill Boucher was involved in an aviation accident near Oceanside, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a cross-country flight, the pilot reported a rough-running right engine and decreasing left engine power, leading to automatic propeller feathering. After an unsuccessful restart, the aircraft ditched two miles offshore. Post-accident inspection found missing and loose oil drain plugs.
Incident
During a cross-country flight, the pilot reported that just south of Los Angeles International Airport, the aircraft's right engine began running rough. At the same time, power in the left engine decreased, and the propeller automatically feathered. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot ditched the aircraft approximately two miles offshore.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination revealed that the left engine oil drain plug was missing. On the right engine, the oil drain plug was found loose, and the quick drain was open and unlocked. Neither engine showed evidence of heat damage.