Accident Details
The pilot reported that the aircraft experienced a loss of oil pressure shortly after takeoff. During an attempted landing at a nearby airport, the aircraft overran the end of the runway and collided with a tree.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident engine run and wreckage examination revealed that the engine developed an extensive oil leak during the accident flight and also during the subsequent engine run. According to the FAA inspector and the aircraft operator, the leak originated from the engine accessory area where the oil temperature bulb attaches to the oil screen assembly.
Maintenance History
The operator reported that the oil temperature bulb appeared to have been improperly installed during an oil change that occurred approximately 15 minutes before the accident flight. The pilot of the accident aircraft, a certified mechanic, supervised the oil change, which was performed by a non-certified mechanic employed by the pilot.