Sequence of Events
Shortly after reducing power during the takeoff roll, the pilot noted a partial loss of power from the right engine. He then advanced both engine throttles to full power, observing an extremely high fuel flow indication on the right engine. Believing the engine was flooding, he switched the boost pump from high to off, but the condition persisted. He then returned the pump to high and attempted to reduce fuel flow by leaning the mixture, also without success. While troubleshooting, he turned the aircraft to a downwind leg and remained in the traffic pattern, but could not maintain altitude. A wheels-up landing was executed in an area of small trees approximately half a mile short of runway 24.
Examination Findings
Post-accident inspection of the right engine revealed that the spark plugs were wet with fuel and covered with black soot. The number five fuel nozzle had been cross-threaded and was dislodged from its installation hole during impact. During initial testing, the right fuel pressure sensing switch failed to sense operating pressure (above 6 psi), which would have caused a high boost and fuel flow condition. Upon later testing, the switch functioned normally.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause for the loss of engine power is a mechanical failure due to excessive fuel pressure and the pilot's improper use of powerplant controls. The subsequent forced landing was attributed to the pilot's improper emergency procedures. The in-flight collision with terrain involved high vegetation as a factor.