What happened
While operating in cruise flight just over Lake Michigan, the pilot of the unspecified aircraft experienced a momentary drop in engine power followed by increasing engine noise. The noise, which was initially light, grew in volume until the engine began to shake with enough violence to vibrate the entire airframe.
In response to the engine failure, the pilot shut down the engine and turned the aircraft back toward the shore. The pilot prepared to land on a section of a two-lane road located near a highway. During the final stages of the approach, approximately 15 to 20 feet above the ground, the airplane stalled. This caused the aircraft to rebound about 5 feet into the air and weathervane toward a line of trees. The pilot applied full left rudder just before touchdown, and the airplane slid sideways until it came to a complete stop. The pilot was not injured.
The investigation
An examination of the engine revealed that the number four cylinder connecting rod was broken. Additionally, investigators located a 2-inch diameter hole in the top aft portion of the engine crankcase. Oil was found covering the windscreen of the aircraft.