What happened
The pilot was operating the aircraft when it experienced a sudden loss of engine power while flying at an altitude of 5500 feet. Following the power loss, the pilot initiated emergency procedures aimed at restarting the engine. Despite completing these steps, the pilot was unable to restore engine function.
With the engine inoperative, the pilot established an approach toward a nearby landing area. During the final phase of the approach, specifically on short final, the aircraft entered a stall condition. The aircraft impacted the ground and moved approximately 30 feet after the initial collision.
The investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that there was ample altitude available for the pilot to have established an approach to a large open field rather than the specific landing area chosen. The investigation determined that the stall on short final resulted in substantially more damage to the aircraft and caused additional injuries compared to what might have occurred with a different touchdown point.
Mechanical analysis indicated that the overhaul facility failed to properly safety the four bolts which attach the camshaft drive gear in the accessory drive section of the engine. This mechanical oversight is cited as the primary reason for the power loss.
Findings
The sequence of events highlights a critical failure in maintenance procedures leading to an in-flight emergency. The pilot's inability to restart the engine forced an off-airport landing. While the pilot managed to establish an approach, the resulting stall on short final exacerbated the outcome. The evidence points directly to improper safetying of bolts as the root cause of the mechanical failure.