Event Description
After takeoff at an altitude of 600 feet, the right engine quit. The pilot reported that altitude dropped about 100 feet and airspeed was at 120 knots. The right engine then restarted and ran for approximately 10 seconds. The pilot adjusted power on the left engine, feathered the right propeller, and attempted to maintain altitude, but airspeed kept diminishing. To maintain airspeed, the pilot was forced to descend. The landing gear was extended to absorb the shock of a landing in a field.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the engine and carburetor revealed no malfunctions. The airplane was within allowable gross weight and center of gravity limits at the time of the event. Weather conditions were reported as a ceiling of 600 feet broken, 1,500 feet overcast, visibility 3 miles, light rain, and fog. The pilot escaped with minor injuries, and the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be: A failure of one engine for undetermined reasons. Additionally, the heavy gross weight resulted in inadequate single engine performance, which lead to a forced landing.