Incident Overview
A pilot was cruising at an altitude of 4,500 feet when a low oil pressure indication appeared, followed by a complete loss of engine power. The pilot executed a forced landing onto an open field. During the landing, the nose landing gear collapsed, and the firewall buckled.
Postaccident Findings
An FAA inspector reported that all piston pins had been reused during the last engine overhaul, which occurred 121 hours prior to the accident. A subsequent postaccident examination revealed that all piston pins measured below service limits. Additionally, investigators determined that the engine failure resulted from metal particles generated by loose fitting piston pin plugs. These particles caused progressive contamination of the engine lubrication system, leading to the power loss.
Damage Assessment
The aircraft sustained damage to the nose gear and firewall as a result of the forced landing.