Accident Overview
A multi-engine airplane experienced a loss of control shortly after takeoff, resulting in a stall and impact with terrain. The pilot had been informed before flight that the rear engine would only produce 1500 RPM. He indicated he would use the front engine for takeoff and feather the rear engine if needed.
Flight and Impact
After departure, as the airplane was climbing, witnesses reported hearing a loud noise followed by silence. The aircraft then banked to the right and stalled. It struck the ground in a nose-down and left-wing-low attitude.
Post-Crash Examination
Examination of the airframe revealed no evidence of preimpact flight control failure or malfunction. Inspection of the front engine found approximately half an ounce of water in the fuel line from the engine-driven pump.
The rear engine had several components replaced and was subsequently started, but it could only develop 1800 RPM. The fuel injector nozzles with attached lines were removed and flow tested, revealing unequal fuel flow from the nozzles.
Maintenance History
The last annual inspection on the airplane was reported to have been conducted in April 1983.