Accident Overview
The accident occurred during the first flight following an oil change. Approximately 38 minutes after takeoff, while in cruise flight, the engine began to run roughly and the oil pressure dropped to zero. Shortly thereafter, the engine completely lost power. The pilot attempted to land at the airport but touched down short of the runway and collided with a fence.
Postaccident Examination
During the postaccident examination, oil was evident on the firewall, rear engine case area, and in the area of the oil pressure screen housing. Oil was also observed streaming aft on the underside of the aircraft and on the forward edge of both landing gear struts. The screws that attach the oil pressure screen were found to be improperly secured; there was no discernible torque required to loosen them. The oil pressure screen had been removed during the oil change.
Findings
The improperly torqued oil screen housing bolts resulted in the loss of oil. This led to the number 2 cylinder connecting rod bearing failure and overheating of the connecting rod. The connecting rod subsequently released from the crankshaft journal and punctured the upper left crankcase, damaging adjacent components.