Incident Overview
During an instructional flight, a certified flight instructor (CFI) retarded the throttle to idle to simulate an engine failure for the student. The exercise was discontinued at about 500 feet with the application of full power. While climbing through approximately 1,100 feet, the engine suddenly began to run rough, and the tachometer indicated 2,000 rpm. Attempts to restore engine power were unsuccessful. The CFI took control of the aircraft and performed an uneventful landing at a nearby airport.
Engine Examination
Following the incident, an examination of the engine revealed that a piston and piston pin in the #2 cylinder had failed. A metallurgical examination of the failed components determined that both failed due to fatigue. The components had accumulated approximately 316.9 hours since installation during a major engine overhaul.
Conclusion
The investigation did not identify any other contributing factors. The aircraft landed without further incident.