What happened
Approximately twelve minutes after takeoff, while the aircraft was climbing through an altitude of 2300 feet mean sea level, the number two engine began to shake violently. Oil subsequently covered the windshield as oil pressure was lost. The pilot then executed a forced landing in an area characterized by tall grass on a river delta. During the touchdown, the nose gear collapsed and the propeller sustained damage.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the number two connecting rod, part number 633403, had failed. This mechanical failure punctured a hole in the engine crankcase, leading to the loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine shutdown.
Findings
The investigation identified mechanical failure of the number two connecting rod as the primary factor. The fracture caused a breach in the crankcase, resulting in total oil loss and the inability to maintain engine operation.