Engine Failure During Initial Clime Forces Road Landing, Gear Collapses (N1942H)

Accident Details

During the initial climb phase, approximately 1,500 feet above ground level, the pilot performed the first power reduction. At that moment, the engine ceased operation. The pilot later stated, 'it quit so fast I knew I had a problem.' After ensuring clearance over trees, the pilot extended the landing gear and executed a forced landing on a road. However, the landing gear failed to lock into the down position and subsequently collapsed. During the landing rollout, the right wing contacted a snow berm.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident inspection of the engine revealed that one of the bolts connecting the number six connecting rod to the crankshaft had separated. The corresponding nut was found at the bottom of the crankcase. The separated bolt and nut were examined at the NTSB metallurgical laboratory. The examination disclosed no preaccident damage to the threads on either component. The torque applied to the other eleven connecting rod attachment nuts was measured and found to be 480 inch-pounds. The engine had undergone an overhaul 241 flight hours prior to the accident.