Accident Summary
A pilot encountered engine trouble while in cruise flight and attempted to divert to Lorain County Airport. The engine continued to lose power, prompting a forced landing in a grass field approximately 2.5 miles north of the airport. During the landing, the airplane sustained substantial damage due to the rough terrain.
Examination Findings
A post-accident examination revealed that the magneto leads were severely worn. The pilot reported that he had been performing the maintenance on the airplane. The last annual inspection was conducted on June 15, 1988.
Pilot Background
The pilot did not hold a mechanic certificate with a powerplant rating. Additionally, the pilot reported that his last biennial flight review was approximately in 1986.