Primary finding
Probable cause
The reported loss of engine power for undetermined reasons.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
About 20 minutes after departing on a local flight, the pilot reported that the engine completely stopped producing power, and he performed a forced landing to corn field. During the forced landing, substantial damage was sustained to the airplane’s wing. After the accident, the airplane was recovered to the pilot’s property, and a mechanic performed a limited examination. He was able to rotate the propeller within a limited range and confirmed that the engine was not seized. In addition, there were no cracked or obvious failures with the engine case and components. Fuel was being supplied to the carburetor, and the magnetos appeared to operate. Several attempts to perform a comprehensive engine examination were not successful.