Event Details
A pilot aborted the first takeoff when the engine produced only 25 inches of manifold pressure, falling short of the normal takeoff power of 38 inches at 2,700 RPM. The pilot then switched the fuel boost pump to low, gaining an additional 3 inches of manifold pressure, but still not reaching full takeoff power. Despite this, the pilot attempted a second takeoff.
Sequence of Events
During the second takeoff, at 80 knots, the pilot rotated the aircraft. As the airplane became light on the landing gear, the gear began to retract. The pilot immediately noticed the landing gear handle was in the up position and moved it to the down position. However, the aircraft settled onto the runway with one main landing gear not fully extended. The airplane then veered off the right side of the runway and struck the concrete footing of a runway edge light that was under construction.
Investigation Findings
Investigators found no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction that would explain the 8-10 inch drop in manifold pressure. The position of the landing gear lever is listed as an item on the airplane's before-starting-engine checklist.