Incident Overview
A flight instructor reported that during an instrument training flight, the engine lost oil pressure and developed a vibration. The instructor took over the controls and turned the airplane toward the nearest available airport, notifying approach control of the situation. Air traffic control issued the airplane a heading as well as the distance to the airport.
Approach and Landing
Due to the low altitude and trees surrounding the airport, the pilot was unable to align the airplane with either runway at the airport. The pilot elected to land perpendicular to the runway. The airplane touched down north of the runway and continued downslope, went through a fence, and came to rest in a sandy area adjacent to the hangars.
Post-Incident Examination
Examination of the engine by the owner's representative revealed that the connecting rods for the number 1 and 2 cylinders had failed for an undetermined reason.