Incident Details
The pilot reported that while climbing through 4,300 feet, the left turbocharger was lost. Shortly afterward, sparks were observed, followed by a fire emanating from the engine.
Pilot Actions
In response, the pilot shut off the fuel supply to the engine and waited for the fire to extinguish. The propeller was then feathered. Despite the emergency, the flight was continued to Montgomery, Alabama, where the aircraft was based. A landing was performed without flaps, and no further problems were encountered during the approach or touchdown.
Inspection Findings
Subsequent inspection of the aircraft revealed that the coupling from the exhaust system to the waste gate had failed. This failure allowed exhaust gases to escape into the engine cowling, which likely led to the observed sparks and fire. The inspection also noted that Airworthiness Directive AD 75-23-08 Revision 5 does not apply to the fractured component.
Damage
The aircraft sustained damage to the engine mount beams and the wing spar in the area passing through the engine nacelle.