Flight and Engine Failure
The airplane was in cruise flight over Lake Michigan when the pilot felt the engine's power 'sag for just an instant and then engine noises started.' The noises were 'light at first' and increased in volume. Subsequently, the engine began to shake violently, eventually shaking the entire airframe.
Pilot Response and Descent
The pilot shut down the engine and turned the airplane back toward the shore. He set up to land on a section of two-lane road near a highway.
Landing Sequence
The pilot reported that while on 'short, short final (about 15 to 20 feet above ground level),' he stalled the airplane. The airplane 'rebounded' approximately 5 feet into the air and weathervaned so that the pilot was looking at some trees. The pilot applied full left rudder just before the airplane touched down again. The airplane slid sideways until it came to a stop.
Post-Landing Examination
Examination of the airplane's engine revealed the number four cylinder connecting rod was broken. A 2-inch diameter hole was located in the top aft portion of the engine crankcase. Oil was found covering the windscreen.