On 12/12/82, the aircraft departed on a flight from Savoonga to Nome, AK. After departure, the pilot noted a problem with the left engine and diverted to Gambell, AK. While en route to Gambell, there was a gradual loss of oil pressure. After landing, the pilot noticed the oil filler cap was missing and found no oil indication on the dipstick. A mechanic added 7 qts of oil. An oil cap from another vehicle was placed on the oil filler neck and secured with duct tape and safety wire. Reportedly, the engine was operationally checked and no discrepancies were noted. The pilot took off and tried to file an IFR flight plan, but encountered freezing rain. He decided to return to Gambell, and while returning noticed the left engine oil pressure was dropping. After the left engine was shut down, ice began accumulating on the windshield and right windows. The aircraft touched down 25 degrees left of the runway heading and struck a gravel/snow berm beside the runway. The No 1 cylinder had no compression, and a hole was found in the piston.