Flight and Incident
During a personal transportation flight destined for Quebec City, Canada, the aircraft was cruising at approximately 6,500 feet. The pilot observed the illumination of the oil pressure light while the aircraft was 43 nautical miles north-northwest of the Houlton VOR station, on a heading of 306 degrees. Shortly thereafter, the engine began to run rough and subsequently lost all power.
Emergency Landing and Damage
The pilot declared an emergency and executed a forced landing. The aircraft touched down on its belly on a logging road. During the landing roll, the right wing collided with a tree stump, causing substantial damage. The aircraft was destroyed as a result of the impact and ensuing ground contact.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident investigation revealed that the #1 connecting rod had failed. The engine exhibited signs of heat distress in the area surrounding the #1 rod. Additionally, oil was found on the sides and bottom of the fuselage, and a hole was present in the top rear section of the engine, consistent with the connecting rod failure and subsequent release of engine components.