Accident Summary
During the initial climb after takeoff, at approximately 60 feet above ground level, black smoke was observed emanating from the left engine. The aircraft continued climbing with a nose-high attitude, then the nose pitched down and the aircraft rolled inverted. The aircraft subsequently collided with terrain. Both occupants were killed.
Engine Examination
Teardown of the engine revealed extensive damage to the supercharger assembly. The impeller shaft was bent and its associated bearing was damaged. The aircraft had not flown for about 14 years. Engine service instructions describe pre-oiling of the supercharger drive shaft bearing after any prolonged period of inactivity. The gear and flaps were in the down position.
Background
The owner, a paraplegic, was seated in the left seat. The pilot seated in the right seat had a history of heart and pulmonary disease. Prior to departure, a witness asked the owner "are you doing the elevators and ailerons and is he your rudders." The owner responded with "we have an arrangement."
Probable Cause
Occurrence #1: loss of engine power(total) - mechanical failure/malfunction Phase of operation: takeoff - initial climb Findings 1. (c) maintenance, service bulletin/letter - not followed - company maintenance personnel 2. (c) engine assembly, blower/impeller/integral supercharger - failure, total 3. (c) maintenance, lubrication - not performed - company maintenance personnel ---------- Occurrence #2: loss of control - in flight Phase of operation: takeoff - initial climb Findings 4. (c) aircraft handling - uncontrolled - pilot in command 5. (c) incapacitation (other cardiovascular) - pilot in command 6. (c) airspeed (VMC) - not possible - unqualified person ---------- Occurrence #3: in flight collision with terrain/water Phase of operation: takeoff - initial climb