Accident Overview
During a night visual flight rules (VFR) cruise, the pilot heard a loud noise, followed by a complete loss of engine power. The subsequent forced landing resulted in substantial damage to the airplane.
Engine Examination
Disassembly of the engine disclosed that the number 2 cylinder had separated from the crankcase. The piston was fractured into two pieces. Evidence of cylinder rocking and fretting was observed. One through-bolt had penetrated the cowling. Four cylinder studs were bent, and two were missing. One of the connecting rod bolts was stripped, while the other had failed in tension. The number 5 cylinder was scored, and its piston was eroded. There was evidence of high heat distress throughout the engine.
Maintenance History
The engine underwent a major overhaul in January 1992. Seven months later, it received a propeller strike inspection. At the time of the accident, engine total time was 3,301 hours, and time since major overhaul was 1,498 hours.
No other factors or conditions were reported in the investigation.