Accident Narrative
The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, while the airplane was climbing through approximately 130 feet above ground level (AGL), the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot initiated an emergency landing to a nearby open field. During the landing attempt, the airplane struck a power line and nosed over, coming to rest inverted in the field. The pilot noted that the terrain surrounding the airfield contained obstacles and power lines.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the engine revealed that the center main crankshaft bearing had spun. Examination of the mating surfaces around the bolt holes and on both halves of the engine block center main bearing caps showed evidence of fretting. According to the engine manufacturer, fretting would result from improper torque of the main bearing through bolts.
Maintenance Records
Maintenance records indicated that the engine had been overhauled in March 1989 and had accumulated 105 hours of operation at the time of its most recent annual inspection, which was conducted on August 21, 1995.