Event Summary
A pilot reported an engine anomaly during initial climb after turning off the fuel boost pump and adjusting power settings. The incident occurred after takeoff from runway 21, with winds reported from 220 degrees magnetic at 13 knots gusting to 20 knots.
Pilot's Account
According to the pilot, no evidence of an engine anomaly was noted during the preflight inspection, engine run up, takeoff ground roll, or initial climb out. As the airplane climbed through about 500 feet agl, the pilot turned the fuel boost pump off and adjusted the power settings to climb power. Immediately after, a loud clattering noise was heard and a severe vibration felt. The pilot added power in an attempt to 'limp' back to the departure runway (runway 21), but when the throttles were pushed forward, the engine noise and vibration worsened, and the engine then lost power completely.
Believing the only option was to land in the opposite direction on the runway (runway 3), the pilot lowered the landing gear and executed a steep 'S' turn to align with the runway. The airplane touched down on the last 1000 feet of runway, and the pilot 'stood on the brakes' but was unable to stop before the end of the runway. The airplane ran off the departure end of the runway, through a barbed wire fence and down an embankment, coming to a stop against scrub trees.
Postaccident Examination
Postaccident examination revealed that the piston in the number one cylinder had failed.