Accident Details
A certificated private pilot and a passenger were on the cruise portion of a cross-country personal flight when the engine's RPM and oil pressure began to drop. Shortly after, the engine quit running. The pilot identified an emergency landing area and executed a forced landing in a grassy field. However, a ditch crossed the landing area. While attempting to maneuver over the ditch, the airplane's landing gear struck the side of the ditch, tearing off the landing gear and damaging both wings.
Engine Inspection
Post-accident inspection of the engine revealed that the oil line from the engine to the oil cooler had ruptured. This rupture led to the loss of oil pressure and subsequent engine failure.
Maintenance Records
Maintenance records showed that the oil line had been installed on the airplane for the last 1,600 hours. A 100-hour inspection had been performed 50 hours before the accident flight. However, replacement of the oil line is required no later than 1,000 hours of service, and the company mechanic did not replace the oil line.