Engine Failure After Takeoff Following Oil Filter Replacement (N1623H)

Accident Summary

During the initial climb after takeoff, the aircraft experienced a total loss of engine power. The accident flight was the first flight following an oil filter replacement. According to the pilot, the engine began losing power approximately two miles south of the departure airport. The pilot reported that the engine seized while turning back toward the airport. Lacking sufficient altitude to glide to a runway, the pilot executed a downwind landing on a nearby road due to the absence of an into-wind landing option, despite a reported 29-knot tailwind. The aircraft struck a street light and a vehicle during the forced landing in a residential area. The pilot estimated that less than 30 seconds elapsed between the loss of engine power and the impact with terrain.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident inspection of the engine revealed that the number four connecting rod had separated and protruded through the top of the engine case. An oil film was observed covering the oil filter, the accessory case below the oil filter, and the bottom of the fuselage. The oil system was pressurized, and a leak was noted around the base of the oil filter canister. Further inspection determined that the oil filter canister bolt was not adequately torqued and its retaining safety wire was incorrectly installed. Additionally, the canister base gasket was incorrectly installed, which allowed oil to leak from the canister base. No leaks were observed after the gasket was repositioned and the canister was reinstalled. The pilot reported that the oil pressure was within the green arc during a pre-takeoff engine run-up check. Several individuals reported an approximately 4-foot-diameter oil spill in the ramp area used by the accident airplane for start-up and pre-takeoff operations.