What happened
Prior to departure, the pilot completed a preflight inspection and an engine run-up, noting no discrepancies. Shortly after takeoff, while climbing through 5,500 feet, the engine failed. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but noted that the oil pressure had dropped to zero. Following a second engine failure, the pilot was unable to achieve a restart. During the subsequent forced landing in a field, the aircraft collided with a tree.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft revealed oil coating the bottom of the fuselage, though the engine compartment itself showed no signs of contamination. Upon removal and inspection of the engine, investigators found that the number 1, 2, 5, and 6 pistons had scored the cylinder walls. The number 3 and 4 pistons were found to be in normal condition. Due to the extent of the damage, a dimensional analysis of the failed pistons and cylinders could not be performed.
While the engine-driven oil pump was inspected, it was found to be free of any failure or malfunction. At the time of the accident, both the aircraft and the engine had accumulated only 16.1 hours since manufacture.