Incident Overview
While cruising at 4,000 feet, the pilot experienced a sudden and complete loss of engine power. He immediately declared an emergency and established a circular pattern to a cotton field for an emergency landing. As the aircraft descended through 3,500 feet, smoke was observed coming from under the cowling and entering the cockpit area. Despite the smoke, the pilot continued the approach to the field. He did not extend the wing flaps. Approximately 300 feet from the intended touchdown point, the airplane flipped over.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the engine revealed a six-inch hole in the engine case between the No. 1 and No. 3 cylinders. The No. 1 piston had disintegrated. Metallurgical examination was unable to determine the mode of piston failure. No further analysis was provided as to the cause of the piston disintegration.
Maintenance Records
The owner reported that a top overhaul had been completed approximately 500 flight hours prior to the accident. A review of the maintenance records indicated that the owner had not ensured that all maintenance entries were completed in accordance with current Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). The specific nature of the non-compliant entries was not detailed. No direct causal link between the maintenance record issues and the engine failure was established.