Engine Failure and Descent
The accident occurred shortly after takeoff when the airplane was approximately 300 feet above ground level. The right engine suffered a sudden and catastrophic failure, causing the propeller to stop spinning with the blades in the low-pitch position. The pilot initiated a right turn back toward the airport, but the airplane could not maintain altitude. After rolling out of the turn, the descent continued until the airplane struck trees.
Engine Examination
Post-accident examination of the right engine revealed that the crankshaft was broken at the number 3 short cheek, just forward of the number two cylinder piston rod. The number two crankshaft bearing was broken and melted. The oil feed line to the number two bearing was blocked by a piece of the broken bearing.
Performance Data
The Single Engine Climb Data table in the Cessna 414 Pilot's Operating Handbook indicates that an airplane weighing 5,680 pounds, with gear and flaps retracted and the inoperative propeller in feather, operating at a density altitude of 5,055 feet, will have a best climb indicated airspeed of 115 knots. The rate of climb will be 308 feet per minute.
Probable Cause
The investigation determined that the slipped number two bearing in the airplane's right engine blocked the bearing's oil feed line, causing the bearing and the crankshaft to overheat and fracture. A factor contributing to this accident was the trees.