Introduction
A private pilot and a passenger were transporting the pilot's multi-engine airplane to another airport for an annual inspection. Shortly after departure, the right engine began to vibrate violently, prompting the pilot to execute a forced landing to a pasture. The airplane subsequently caught fire, and both radial engines separated from the airframe, sustaining impact damage.
Pilot Qualifications and Aircraft Status
The pilot was not rated by the FAA to operate multi-engine airplanes and had not received any formal training in the aircraft. The accident flight was his first time flying the airplane alone. Additionally, the airplane had not undergone an annual inspection in approximately eight years prior to the accident.
Examination Findings
Examination of the right engine revealed extensive mechanical damage, possibly due to a connecting rod failure.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be the pilot's improper decision to fly an airplane that was not airworthy and for which he was not properly rated to operate, and his failure to maintain control of the airplane during a forced landing to a field following an engine failure. A contributing factor was the failed cylinder connecting rod.