Engine Cylinder Failure Forces Emergency Landing and Terrain Impact (N55KP)

Accident Sequence

The airplane was in flight when the pilot reported a loss of engine power at an altitude of 8,500 feet mean sea level. The pilot initiated a forced landing attempt in a field. During the landing, the airplane encountered rough terrain and impacted trees.

Engine Examination

Post-accident examination of the engine revealed that the #1 cylinder barrel had cracked and separated near the cylinder head. A metallurgical examination of the barrel determined that it was not manufactured according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Maintenance History

The engine had been rebuilt by the manufacturer in February 1986 and had accumulated 214 hours of total operating time at the time of the accident. Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directive (AD) 86-13-04 applied to this engine and cylinder barrel. The AD had been complied with 41 hours prior to the cylinder failure. The AD required recurring visual inspections and pressure checks for cracks every 50 hours until the engine reached 440 to 490 hours of total operating time.