Accident Sequence
The pilot was departing on a cross-country flight to California. During the takeoff climb, the left engine lost power when the airplane was 50 feet above the ground. Following the power loss, the airplane veered to the left. The left wing subsequently struck the ground approximately 200 feet left of the runway centerline. The airplane came to rest 303 feet from the left edge of the runway surface.
Pre-Flight Maintenance and Pilot Decision
Before the accident flight, the pilot asked a mechanic to examine the left engine. The mechanic performed an inspection and determined that there was a defect with the fuel servo, which required repair. The pilot acknowledged the mechanic's findings but chose to depart without having the fuel servo repaired.
Post-Accident Examination
After the accident, an examination of the airplane revealed that the servo of the left engine contained compacted mud, water, and other unknown debris.
Emergency Procedures
The airplane's engine failure during takeoff emergency procedures state: "Close both throttles immediately, land if airborne and stop straight ahead."