On August 18, 1995, a Beech P-35 (registration N9531Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Bend, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: seizure of the #4 connecting rod bearing due to overtemperature resulting in the separation of the connecting rod and total loss of engine power. A factor contributing to the accident was the lack of suitable terrain for a forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During cruise flight, a pilot experienced a total loss of engine power after noticing oil pressure loss. Ditching in a lake followed. Examination found the #4 connecting rod separated from the crankshaft.
Incident Details
While in cruise flight, the pilot observed a loss of oil pressure, which was immediately followed by a complete loss of engine power. With no other suitable forced landing site available, the pilot elected to ditch the airplane in a lake. The aircraft came to rest in the water.
Engine Examination
A post-accident examination of the engine was conducted. The investigation revealed that the #4 connecting rod had separated from the crankshaft at the end cap. The rod end cap bolts had separated from the cap and exhibited evidence of necking and heat distress. The #4 rod journal also showed signs of heat distress. The bearings associated with the #4 rod journal were destroyed. In contrast, all other rod journals and all main bearing journals did not exhibit evidence of heat distress or lack of lubrication.
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