Primary finding
Probable cause
Loss of engine power due to separation of 3 connecting rods from the master rod for undetermined reasons(s).
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that after takeoff while climbing through 2,500 feet, the oil pressure began dropping and the oil temperature began increasing. He executed a forced landing in a cow pasture landing intentionally gear-up. Examination of the engine revealed that 3 connecting rods were separated from the master rod for undetermined reason(s). Review of the engine logbook revealed that the engine was overhauled on july 25, 1994. The total time on the engine at that time was 5,347 hours and the engine had accumulated about 18 hours since overhaul at the time of the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
On May 28, 1995, about 1340 eastern daylight time, a North American T-28A, N28FE, registered to the Park Avenue Group, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Arcadia, Florida, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The airline transport-rated pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The flight originated from the Peter O'Knight Airport, Tampa, Florida, about 1325. The pilot stated that while climbing through 2,500 feet he observed the oil temperature increase and the oil pressure decrease. He then initiated a descent for a forced landing and intentionally landed gear-up in a field. The engine was removed for further examination. Examination of the engine by an FAA airworthiness inspector revealed that the cylinder Nos. 4, 5, and 6 connecting rods were separated from the master rod for undetermined reason(s). Review of the engine logbook revealed that the engine was overhauled on July 25, 1994. The total time on the engine at the time of overhaul was about 5,347 hours. The engine had accumulated about 18 hours since overhaul at the time of the accident. -