Incident Overview
The pilot was repositioning the aircraft at the request of the new owner, who was not a rated pilot. While climbing through 2000 feet above ground level (AGL), the pilot reported hearing the engine growl and experiencing a loss of power.
Pilot Actions
In response to the power loss, the pilot initiated a precautionary descent. During this descent, the engine seized completely, necessitating a forced landing. The pilot executed the landing in a corn field.
Engine Inspection Findings
Post-accident inspection of the engine revealed two seized pistons and extensive heat damage throughout the engine. The two remaining cylinders that were not damaged appeared to have been recently replaced. However, no appropriate logbook notations were found to document these replacements.
Background
The aircraft had been purchased two weeks prior to the accident. The seller had refused to fly the aircraft before the sale.