Accident Overview
On April 18, 2014, at approximately 1445 central daylight time, a Cessna 210A (registration N9421X) collided with terrain during a forced landing near Searcy, Arkansas. The private pilot and a pilot-rated passenger sustained minor injuries, and the airplane was substantially damaged. The aircraft was registered to and operated by Arkansas Pilots for Christ under 14 CFR Part 91 as a personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed, and the flight was not operated under a flight plan. The flight had departed Red Oak Airport (4AR2) about 1430.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, the takeoff and departure were uneventful until smoke was smelled and observed emanating from the right corner of the cockpit instrument panel. The pilot turned off the avionics and diverted to Searcy Municipal Airport (KSRC). While en route, the engine initially experienced a partial loss of power and then seized. Unable to glide to the airport, the pilot maneuvered to a nearby field. During the landing roll, the nose gear struck an unseen obstruction, causing the airplane to nose over.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination revealed two holes in the engine crankcase: one near the number 5 cylinder and one near the number 6 cylinder. Disassembly and examination of the engine discovered a blue material consistent with room temperature vulcanization (RTV) sealant between the oil filter adapter and oil pump housing. RTV was also found within the oil filter adapter housing. The oil filter was opened, revealing small metallic particulates in the filter pleats. The oil sump's quick drain valve was impact damaged. A residual amount of oil and metal fragments consistent with bearing, piston, connecting rod, connecting rod bolt and nut, and piston pin debris were found in the oil sump. The oil pick-up screen was free of obstructions. None of the rocker box cover screws were tightly secured. Mechanical damage was noted to the number 5 and number 6 cylinders and pistons. All six bearings displayed lubrication distress and thermal smearing. The crankshaft showed signs of lubrication distress, thermal damage, and mechanical damage. The number 5 connecting rod journal sustained more damage compared to the others.
Maintenance and Preflight
An annual inspection of the airplane had been accomplished prior to the accident flight. A review of the log books did not find any entries related to servicing or maintenance of the engine's oil system. The pilot and pilot-rated passenger reported performing a normal preflight inspection. Photos provided by the airplane recovery team showed a small amount of oil sheen on the fuselage. A small amount of oil was present on the engine, but very little oil was found at the accident site.