Incident Overview
During cruise flight, the pilot detected an odor of oil, followed shortly by the engine oil pressure dropping to zero and subsequent engine failure. The pilot executed a forced landing in an open field. Upon touchdown, the left main landing gear collapsed after contacting a rock.
Investigation Findings
Post-incident examination revealed that the aluminum propeller governor tube, which connects the propeller governor to the propeller hub, had cracked. The steel clamp securing this tube to the oil pan showed wear similar to that observed on the tube. Additionally, the rubber insulator on the clamp was worn and found to be out of its proper position.
Inspection History
According to records, the aircraft had undergone both an annual and a 100-hour inspection on June 29, 1982.