Incident Overview
A pilot conducted a static engine run-up prior to takeoff, noting no discrepancies. During the initial climb, at an altitude between 25 and 50 feet above the runway, the left engine produced the expected 35 inches of manifold pressure (MP), but the right engine only produced between 18 and 20 inches of MP. The airplane subsequently veered to the right and descended into rough, uneven terrain near the airport.
Environmental Conditions
The airport elevation was 7,128 feet mean sea level. The calculated density altitude exceeded 8,200 feet, indicating reduced engine performance capability due to high density altitude.
Post-Accident Examination
Inspection of the right engine's turbocharger assembly revealed two anomalies. The absolute pressure controller was set lower than the manufacturer's specifications required. Additionally, the wastegate butterfly valve was mechanically binding in its housing and would not fully close. These conditions likely prevented the right engine from developing normal power.
Conclusion
The source does not provide an explicit probable cause. The findings indicate that the right engine's turbocharger assembly was not functioning within manufacturer specifications, contributing to a loss of power during takeoff.