Incident Overview
An aircraft experienced a loss of engine power while flying at 1,500 feet. The pilot reported that the engine ran roughly, the oil pressure indicator dropped to zero, and the engine subsequently stopped. A forced landing was executed.
Previous Incident
Three days before this event, the same aircraft lost engine power during takeoff. During the resulting landing roll, the aircraft entered a ditch, causing damage to the nose gear and propeller. A club mechanic examined the aircraft and determined the damage to be less than substantial. The engine was started and run for 45 minutes, after which it was considered to have checked out.
Post-Accident Examination
After the second accident, an examination of the aircraft revealed that it was out of oil. The oil filler neck was broken at the point where it connects to the engine block. Oil had been pumped out through this broken filler tube, and the underside of the engine was covered in oil.