Incident Overview
Shortly after departure, while climbing through an altitude of approximately 350 feet above ground level, the engine experienced a complete loss of power. The pilot executed an emergency landing in a nearby field. No further information regarding the landing outcome was provided.
Examination Findings
Post-incident examination of the engine revealed that the intake manifold tube for the #3 cylinder had become disconnected and was found lying within the engine cowling. The lower portion of the tube exhibited a flattened appearance. The bolts and washers that secure the intake manifold tube to the cylinder were missing, as was the O-ring that connects the tube to the manifold. Additionally, the inspector noted the presence of metal flakes or shavings within the induction box of the intake manifold. These flakes were consistent with the material composition of the intake manifold tube. The #3 exhaust manifold was also observed to be broken at the muffler and showed signs of wear.
Maintenance History
The accident engine was installed on the accident airplane on September 20, 1999, at which time an annual inspection was also performed. Following that date, no additional entries were made in either the airframe or the engine logbooks. At the time of the incident, the engine had accumulated 96 hours since its last major overhaul and a total of 1,197 flight hours.