Accident Details
A Canadian pilot was cruising at 7,500 feet over Lake Ontario when the engine began to run rough. In response, the pilot turned south due to better weather conditions and executed a forced landing in a field. An FAA inspector later noted that no suitable landing fields were available in the immediate vicinity.
Aircraft Damage
During the landing, the tailwheel separated from the airplane, and the wing spars were bent at the attachment points to the main landing gear.
Engine Examination
Post-accident inspection of the engine revealed that the cylinder hold-down bolts for the number three cylinder had failed; all bolts were broken flush with the cylinder flange except for one, which was stripped. The engine had last been overhauled in 1981, approximately 445 hours before the accident.
Investigation
No further details regarding the pilot, aircraft registration, or operator have been disclosed. The investigation continues to focus on the mechanical failure of the engine components.