Probable cause
The loss of engine power due to component failure from excessive heating of the engine connecting rod journals.
NTSB analysis
The airplane experienced a loss of engine oil pressure during descent to the destination airport, and the pilot subsequently performed a forced landing to a corn field. Maintenance records showed that the engine last received an engine oil analysis and engine oil change about 107 hours prior to the incident. The last recorded oil analysis check on the engine recommended that the owner resample the oil in 15 to 20 hours to monitor wear trend. A postaccident examination of the engine revealed that there was heat damage to the surfaces of cylinder rod journal Nos. 5 and 6. A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no other mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10IA059 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 13, 2009
- Type
- Incident
- Place
- Elk Mound, Wisconsin
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-46-310P
- N-number
- N667PC
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Minor
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.