Introduction
On November 9, 2012, at approximately 0721 central standard time, a Cessna 210L, registration N732BL, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Fayette Regional Air Center Airport (3T5) in La Grange, Texas. The pilot and both passengers sustained minor injuries. The airplane was operated by a private individual under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a business flight. Day visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and an instrument flight rules flight plan had been filed.
Sequence of Events
The flight departed San Marcos Municipal Airport (HYI) at about 0650, destined for Baytown Airport (HPY). While cruising at 7,000 feet mean sea level, the pilot noticed the engine oil pressure had dropped to an unacceptable level. The pilot requested a descent and vectors to divert for landing at 3T5. Radar data showed the airplane overflew 3T5 at approximately 2,500 feet above ground level. While on downwind and after lowering the landing gear, the pilot reported a total loss of engine power. The pilot performed an off-airport landing about one mile north of 3T5. During the landing on a soft plowed field, the airplane flipped and came to rest inverted.
Postaccident Examination
A review of aircraft maintenance logbook entries revealed that maintenance had been performed on the engine about three weeks before the accident, including replacement of the engine oil filter. A postaccident examination of the airframe found an abundance of engine oil on the belly of the airplane, extending from the engine compartment to the tail surfaces. A teardown examination of the engine showed lubrication distress and mechanical damage on all connecting rod journals, with damage concentrated where the number four connecting rod had released from the crankshaft and penetrated the crankcase. Examination of the oil filter revealed an abundance of flakes and slivers from the damaged internal engine components. The oil filter adapter fiber seal washer was observed to be torn at the point where the adapter attaches to the oil pump housing and showed signatures of misalignment with the oil filter adapter.