Primary finding
Probable cause
The mechanical failure of the left main landing gear leg due to corrosion, resulting in substantial damage to the left struts.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, after landing on a gravel bar in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, as he slowed to taxi speed, the left main gear leg failed. The airplane lost directional control and ground looped which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing struts. A postaccident examination of the main landing gear revealed a fracture in the landing gear tube at a point where it joins the inboard end of the axle likely due to corrosion. Apart from the corrosion found during the postaccident examination, the pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.