Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s selection of an unsuitable landing area resulting in an on-ground collision with an obscured log and a main landing gear separation.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was landing a tailwheel-equipped airplane in an area of tidal, grass-covered terrain. After touchdown, during the landing rollout, the left main landing gear wheel struck a large log that was obscured by the tall grass, which resulted in the left main landing gear separation. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left main landing gear attachment point (gearbox assembly). The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.