Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that during cruise flight at 3000 feet, he noticed an engine vibration and a mist of oil on the windshield. Approximately one minute later, the engine stopped. He set up for a forced landing in a field while attempting to restart the engine. The engine restarted and ran at about 50 percent power before stopping again. At that point, the aircraft was at about 800 feet above ground level and on final approach for a corn field.
The pilot touched down on the main wheels first. The ground was soft, and the nose wheel dug into the ground. The aircraft tipped up on its nose and left wing before settling back down on its main landing gear.
Examination Findings
During the examination of the engine, it was determined that there was a hole in the crankcase near the number five cylinder, and no oil remained in the crankcase. The number five connecting rod was bent, and the piston and pin were missing. Additionally, a crack in the intake manifold was found, with fuel stains below the crack.