Engine Failure and Ditching
During flight, the aircraft's engine seized at approximately 3,500 feet above ground level. The pilot subsequently performed a ditching maneuver off a beach. The aircraft came to rest in the water.
Examination of Engine Components
Post-accident examination of the engine revealed multiple critical failures. The right magneto distributor block showed evidence of carbon tracking and cross firing. Additionally, neither end of the right magneto had breather plugs installed, contrary to standard practice.
All spark plugs were found to be excessively fouled and severely eroded. The springs on the spark plug leads were burned and dirty, indicating poor electrical conductivity and potential arcing.
The number one connecting rod was split lengthwise and had fragmented into several pieces, which would have resulted in catastrophic engine damage.
Maintenance Log Review
Review of the aircraft's maintenance logbooks disclosed improper maintenance practices. These included the overhaul of a cylinder and the installation of detergent-type oil, which is not recommended for certain engine configurations.
Furthermore, no evidence of compliance with Teledyne Service Bulletin #612 could be found. This bulletin recommends periodic maintenance procedures to establish cleaning and inspection guidelines for Bendix magnetos and ignition harnesses. The lack of adherence to these procedures likely contributed to the degraded condition of the ignition system.
Conclusion
The investigation documented multiple serious maintenance discrepancies that collectively led to engine failure. The condition of the magneto, spark plugs, and connecting rod, combined with the failure to follow manufacturer service bulletins, resulted in a loss of engine power necessitating the ditching.