Piper PA 28R-200 N2837R accident near Frankenmuth, Michigan

Probable cause

The failure of the engine due to a lack of oil lubrication for reasons that could not be determined during postaccident examinations.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during climbout on the return leg of an out-and-back flight, he noticed the engine hesitate for 1 or 2 seconds and then recover to normal operation. The pilot continued climbing the airplane and proceeded toward his home airport. While approaching the airport, the engine made abnormal noises, followed by a total loss of power. The pilot then executed a forced landing into a field.

Postaccident examinations of the engine revealed that it had a very low quantity of oil; however, no visible evidence of oil loss or indication of excess oil consumption was found. A teardown examination of the engine revealed that all four piston connecting rods had failed. The failure signatures were consistent with a lack of lubrication. Based on the evidence, it is likely that the engine failed due to a lack of oil lubrication; however, the reason for the lack of oil could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN15LA157 for the full record.