Incident Sequence
The aircraft was north of the airport at 8,000 feet inbound for landing. The pilot turned on the fuel boost pumps and switched from the auxiliary to the main tanks after a momentary surge. Minutes later, the left engine surged again. The pilot substantially restored power. During approach, the left engine surged again, followed by a partial loss of power. While flaring for landing, the aircraft veered to the left and departed the runway into the grass.
Fuel Examination
Based on the pilot's fuel calculations, the aircraft should have had 53.2 gallons of fuel remaining at landing. The day after the accident, fuel was found in the right main fuel tank. The left tank was compromised, preventing verification of fuel presence.
Post-Accident Engine and Turbocharger Tests
Following the accident, the left engine was run in a test cell. It operated up to maximum available power with no discrepancies. The turbocharger was also examined and no abnormalities were found.