Overview
A pilot departed at approximately 0600 Central Standard Time for a local test flight following an engine change. The pilot received a special VFR clearance from the control tower but did not obtain an IFR clearance. Weather conditions at McAllen, Texas, at 0605 included 500-foot obscured ceiling, visibility 2 miles, and wind from 100 degrees at 4 knots.
Engine Failure
During the flight, the engine lost power and the propeller would not feather. The pilot subsequently landed the aircraft in a soft plowed field, which resulted in damage to the aircraft.
Aftermath
The aircraft was damaged during the landing. No further details were provided regarding the extent of damage, or whether there were any injuries to the pilot or other persons.