Accident Sequence
During a multi-engine certification check flight, the left engine was shut down and feathered. The designated pilot examiner then instructed the applicant to restart the engine. The restart was unsuccessful, and the examiner took control of the aircraft, returning to the originating airport.
The applicant performed the manual gear extension procedures, but the landing gear position could not be verified. On final approach, the gear was not down and locked. The examiner executed a go-around; however, the airplane was unable to maintain altitude. The airplane impacted trees and terrain while descending during the go-around.
Post-Impact Examination
A post-impact fire destroyed the aircraft. The landing gear was found in the retracted position, and the left propeller was found feathered. Metallurgical examination found areas of electrical arcing in the part of the starter cable passing through the wing root. When the left engine starter was energized using an exemplary cable, the starter rotated the engine crankshaft.
Environmental and Performance Data
Density altitude was calculated at 3,100 feet. The aircraft manufacturer reported a single-engine aircraft climb capability of -7 feet per minute with the landing gear extended.