Accident Summary
The airplane experienced a total gear collapse during a forced landing following the inflight separation of the propeller. The pilot reported that approximately 45 minutes after takeoff, while in cruise flight at 4,000 feet mean sea level, the crankshaft fractured and the propeller detached from the engine. Oil sprayed across the windscreen, and the engine seized.
Sequence of Events
The pilot executed a forced landing at a sod farm. The field was being prepared for planting, and the recently tilled soil was very soft. Upon touchdown, the landing gear became stuck in the ground and separated from the airplane. The airplane slid approximately 50 feet, during which the right wing twisted.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination of the crankshaft revealed a fatigue crack that had initiated from an oil transfer tube hole in the No. 1 main bearing journal. This crack led to the crankshaft failure and subsequent propeller separation.
Historical Note
The airplane had been involved in a propeller strike in March 1999. After the strike, the engine was removed for a teardown inspection, and the crankshaft was replaced with an overhauled unit.