Incident Overview
A solo commercial pilot was conducting a cross-country personal flight under Title 14, CFR Part 91. While cruising at approximately 2,500 feet above ground level, the engine began to run rough and lose power. Shortly thereafter, black smoke emerged from the engine compartment, followed by a severe vibration and a complete loss of engine power.
Emergency Landing
The pilot selected an open swampy area for an emergency landing. During the landing, the airplane's nose wheel struck a large stump, and the wings collided with a stand of trees. The impact caused substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage.
Post-Accident Examination
After the aircraft was recovered, an FAA airworthiness inspector conducted an examination. The inspector reported a hole in the crankcase adjacent to the number one cylinder. The number one piston assembly was found in the oil sump, with the piston wristpin still attached to the connecting rod. Portions of the engine crankshaft assembly were broken, and there was significant rotational scoring in the internal parts of the engine.