Incident Overview
A Piper PA-24-400, while cruising at an altitude of 2,000 feet, encountered an engine malfunction. The pilot reported hearing a loud bang, followed by engine vibrations and a loss of oil pressure. An off-airport landing was initiated in a field, during which the aircraft struck trees.
Post-Crash Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the engine was conducted. The inspection revealed a failure of the number 6 connecting rod. Additionally, the pistons were found to be larger than the manufacturer's specifications. The engine had accumulated a total time of 1,400 hours, with only 40.5 hours since its last overhaul.
Findings
No probable cause was stated in the investigation source. The examination identified a mechanical failure involving the connecting rod and non-specification pistons, but no analysis or causal link was provided.