What happened
While the aircraft was operating during cruise flight, the engine ceased functioning. The pilot attempted to glide toward a nearby airport but was unable to reach the airfield. Consequently, the aircraft was forced to land in a cornfield located approximately one mile short of the destination.
The investigation
A post-crash inspection of the wreckage revealed significant mechanical issues within the exhaust system. Specifically, the flange of the left intermediate exhaust pipe had cracked and become loose. This failure allowed hot gases to escape improperly, which subsequently melted and shorted out the wiring connected to both magnetos.
Evidence indicated that an exhaust clamp had been installed incorrectly prior to the incident. This improper installation contributed to the eventual failure of the exhaust flange, leading to the ignition system failure.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to this accident included:
- The cracking and loosening of the left intermediate exhaust pipe flange.
- The melting and shorting of magneto wiring due to exposure to hot gases.
- The improper installation of an exhaust clamp, which facilitated the mechanical failure.