Incident Overview
During the climb after takeoff, between 3,500 and 4,000 feet, the pilot observed a decrease in engine oil pressure and an increase in oil temperature. The pilot informed the controller of the problem and received radar vectors to the nearest airport. While following these vectors, the engine failed, and oil covered the windshield and the pilot's side window, obscuring the view of the airport.
Forced Landing
Unable to see the airport, the pilot executed a forced landing to an open field. The airplane impacted the ground during the landing.
Engine History and Examination
The engine had accumulated approximately 440 hours of flight time since its last overhaul, which was performed by the manufacturer. Investigation disclosed that remanufactured connecting rods had been installed during that overhaul. Upon examination of the engine, four of the six connecting rod bearings were found to have melted at the crankshaft. Additionally, fatigue cracks were discovered on the number four connecting rod and its end cap. When the retaining nuts on the number four connecting rod end cap were removed, rings of moderate wear and fretting were found in the nut recesses where the nuts contacted the rod.