Accident Overview
On August 5, 2021, at about 2030 eastern daylight time, a Piper J3C-65, registration N6269H, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Gosport, Indiana. The pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The airplane was being operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, during cruise flight, the airplane experienced significant vibration followed by a total loss of engine power. The pilot initiated a forced landing to a field. During the landing, the airplane nosed over and impacted terrain, resulting in substantial damage to the rudder and cowling.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination of the engine revealed that the No. 4 cylinder exhaust valve stem was broken at its base. The valve seat was turned sideways, and pieces of broken metal were found inside the cylinder. The cylinder's rockers and springs did not exhibit any failure.
Damage Assessment
The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the rudder and cowling. The extent of other structural damage was not detailed in the report.