Primary finding
Probable cause
the total loss of engine power due to failure of the oil line to the oil pressure gauge. A factor relating to the accident was no suitable terrain on which to make a forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was in cruise flight at 1500 feet agl when the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. He made a forced landing on a rural road, and the right wing of the airplane struck a tree during the landing roll. The investigation revealed a failure of the oil line to the oil pressure gauge.
Source record
Factual narrative
On March 28, 1993, at 1630 eastern standard time, a Rockwell Lark, N4017X, sustained substantial damage when the pilot made an off-airport forced landing near Topinabee, Michigan. The private pilot and his sole passenger were not injured. The personal flight originated at the Cheboygan City-County Airport at 1615. No flight plan was filed, and visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time. The pilot reported a complete loss of engine power while in cruise flight. He made a forced landing on a rural road, and the right wing of the airplane struck a tree during landing rollout. The Federal Aviation Administration inspector who examined the airplane reported the oil pressure gauge line was broken, and oil covered the full length of the fuselage. -