Engine Seizure After Takeoff
During climb after takeoff, the left engine seized. The pilot stated that he attempted to restart the engine, but the propeller would not rotate or feather. No emergency was declared. The pilot reported that the engine shutdown procedure was used, scientific bus switches were shut off, and the right generator was recycled and appeared to operate normally.
Loss of Radar Contact and Navigation Difficulties
Pilots received an immediate vector to return to Martin Airport, but radar contact was lost for about five minutes. Electrical problems were encountered, and pilots had difficulty maintaining headings, which delayed their diversion to an alternate airport. With the left propeller unfeathered, they could not maintain altitude. Due to bad weather at Martin, they diverted to Baltimore. Radar and radio contacts were lost, and they could not reach Baltimore.
Forced Landing and Impact
During a forced landing, the aircraft hit a tree and crashed short of the intended landing area. The crash resulted in the death of one pilot and injuries to three other occupants.
Mechanical Findings
Teardown of the left engine revealed that the #4 and #5 connecting rods had failed at the crankshaft. These rods were discolored from heat and scored. Other rod bearings showed indications of oil starvation. Metallic debris from the failed engine was found in the oil system, and several oil feed holes to rod bearings were obstructed with metallic debris.
Electrical and Modification Issues
Fire damaged most of the electrical system. The aircraft was modified for environmental testing but was not flight tested for drag-inducing modifications. Written flight crew instructions for the modifications were not available.