Accident Overview
A pilot conducting a business flight over mountainous terrain experienced an engine malfunction approximately one hour into the flight. The pilot observed smoke or oil vapor in the cockpit and noted oil accumulation on the lower cowling and wing. He communicated his position and the nature of the problem to Salt Lake City Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC).
Engine Failure
Shortly after detecting the oil vapor, the engine lost oil pressure and began to run roughly with severe vibrations. The pilot elected to shut down the engine and performed a forced landing into a clearing. The aircraft touched down with the landing gear retracted in rough terrain, resulting in damage to the fuselage, wings, and firewall.
Post-Accident Inspection
An FAA airworthiness inspector conducted a post-accident examination. The inspection revealed that an oil line servicing the turbo-charger waste gate had fractured, allowing the engine oil to escape. With the oil supply exhausted, the number 4 connecting rod bearing seized, causing the connecting rod to break. The broken rod then knocked a hole in the engine case.
Maintenance Issue
According to the mechanic, the pilot had been advised to have the oil line replaced 1.5 hours before the flight.