Flight and Conditions
The flight was en route from Watertown to Glens Falls, New York, when the pilot encountered snow squalls of varying intensity and gusty wind conditions. The pilot reported that forward visibility was marginal.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
Shortly after changing heading towards Utica, New York, the engine failed. The pilot immediately set up for a forced landing in a field. During the approach, the aircraft clipped tree tops, descended to the ground, struck left wing first, and flipped over.
Post-Accident Examination
Post-accident disassembly of the engine revealed a broken #2 connecting rod and evidence of localized oil starvation. The oil flow to the #2 connecting rod had been obstructed by metal particles originating from a spalled valve tappet face.