Incident Overview
A pilot reported that after leveling off at 9,500 feet, abnormal oil pressure readings were observed. The pilot decided to land the airplane, but before a landing could be completed, the oil pressure dropped and the engine subsequently failed. The pilot declared an emergency and requested vectors to an airport.
Approach and Landing
The pilot stated that at five miles from the airport, the airport was in sight and he immediately realized he was too high for the southeast runway. He added that he was still high and lowered the landing gear with the intention of making the hard surface runway. During the descent, the pilot reported that the engine was vibrating violently and the descent rate became excessively high. The aircraft eventually landed in a plowed farm field approximately one mile north of the airport.
Postaccident Examination
According to a written report, a postaccident examination of the engine revealed evidence of engine oil venting through the breather vent on the left side of the fuselage, immediately aft of the engine cowl. The report also stated that the intake tubes for cylinders number 7 and 8 contained a large amount of oil. The impeller section of the engine was wet with oil, indicating the loss of the impeller seal between this section and the power section of the engine. Additionally, the report noted that only the number 1 piston, which contains the master connecting rod, would move consistent with propeller movement.