Event Summary
While in cruise flight under visual flight rules (VFR) conditions and operating on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan, the pilot experienced a total loss of engine power. An attempt to restart the engine was unsuccessful, leading to a forced landing in a soybean field.
Examination Details
Post-accident examination of the engine oil cooler hose revealed a hole that had been chafed through the hose. The hole was located at the point where the hose was routed beneath the cabin heat air duct hose. This routing allowed contact between the hose and duct, resulting in chafing. The hole permitted engine oil to vent overboard.
Engine Failure
The continuous loss of oil resulted in oil exhaustion. Consequently, the engine seized due to a lack of lubrication. The engine seizure was attributed to oil exhaustion.
Investigation Outcome
The investigation determined that the loss of engine power was caused by the oil exhaustion resulting from the chafed oil cooler hose. The specific chafing occurred at the interface with the cabin heat air duct hose.