Accident Overview
While descending en route, the engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot executed a forced landing in a plowed field. During the landing, the nose wheel separated from the aircraft, causing the airplane to nose over and come to rest inverted.
Investigation Findings
Disassembly of the engine revealed that the gear train had lost continuity. Specifically, the crankshaft gear retaining bolt had loosened, and subsequently, the crankshaft gear alignment dowel fractured. This failure resulted in the loss of power.
Additional Information
Records indicate that the airplane's propeller had been replaced on February 13, 1992, following a nose gear collapse. At that time, Airworthiness Directive 91-14-22 was not complied with because the engine had not experienced a sudden stoppage, as required by the AD.