Incident Summary
A private pilot was operating a single-engine airplane in cruise flight when the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing to a golf course. During the landing, while attempting to avoid personnel on the ground, the airplane collided with a tree.
Examination Findings
An airframe and powerplant mechanic with inspection authority examined the engine assembly and accessories. The examination revealed that the number four connecting rod and its bolts had failed due to extreme heat. The reason for the heat was not determined.
Components were sent to the NTSB laboratory for further analysis. Bench binocular microscope examination showed damage consistent with oil starvation. However, the underlying cause of the oil starvation was not identified.
The investigation did not determine a probable cause for the engine power loss.