Incident Overview
On 6 August 2000 at 1400 Z, a Cessna 337 (registration ZS-IDO) operated on a private flight in the Bredasdorp region. The pilot, accompanied by five passengers, was flying at 1000 feet AMSL from Arniston to Cape Infanta. While abeam the De Hoop Nature Reserve, the pilot noticed a drop in the rear engine oil pressure.
Sequence of Events
The pilot turned back towards Bredasdorp and was overhead Arniston when engine vibration from the rear engine was experienced. The pilot reduced power to the rear engine to approximately 20 inches manifold pressure and 2300 rpm. A few minutes thereafter, two loud bangs were heard approximately 20 seconds apart. The pilot then feathered the rear engine and turned towards Overberg Air Force Base, where an emergency landing was carried out on runway 35. The landing was uneventful and nobody was injured.
Post-Landing Inspection
Initial inspection revealed puncture holes in the engine crankcase caused by internal component failure.
Weather Conditions
Meteorological conditions were CAVOK (Ceiling And Visibility OK).