Event
The airplane collided with an automobile and nosed over during a forced landing on an interstate highway following a catastrophic engine failure.
Circumstances
The pilot was ferrying the airplane to its new owner. During the ferry flight, the airplane was losing oil, so repairs were made. The last maintenance entry made during the en route repairs stated in part, "Recommended new oil tank as soon as possible." The ferry pilot continued, and the recommended installation of a new oil tank was not completed. A few hours south of the airplane's destination, the engine lost power.
Post-Accident Examination
Post-accident examination revealed oil along the underside of the fuselage and approximately 3/4-quart of oil indicated on the dipstick. The number 2 connecting rod had separated, and the connecting rod and its crankshaft journal were black and blue in color. The oil screen was removed, and it was found to be only finger tight. The routing of the oil travels from the sump, to the oil pump, through the oil screen, to the engine. If the screen is loose, then oil has the ability to leak out.