Accident Overview
During a local flight conducted under visual flight rules, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to land on an asphalt-surfaced road but was unable to reach the roadway. During the subsequent forced landing, the airplane collided with trees on uneven desert terrain and sustained damage.
Engine Examination
Examination of the engine revealed that the crankshaft had failed forward of the number one journal. The fractured surfaces exhibited beach marks consistent with fatigue. No evidence of high-temperature distress or lack of lubrication was found.
Engine Service History
The engine had accumulated approximately 4,434 hours since new and about 1,110 hours since its last overhaul, which was performed on December 10, 1987.