Primary finding
Probable cause
The improperly adjusted brakes and the pilot's failure to lock the tailwheel, resulting in a loss of directional control. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's decision to continue flying the airplane with a known brake deficiency.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that prior to the accident flight and after the last annual inspection, the airplane had displayed poor (soft) braking qualities. This substandard braking capability required the pilot to pump the brakes to adequately decelerate on the ground. The pilot departed for a cross-country flight and did not lock the tailwheel. During landing at the destination airport, he was unable to maintain control of the airplane. The airplane ground looped counterclockwise, resulting in right landing gear collapsing and the right wing sustaining substantial damage. A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed the wheel brakes were improperly adjusted.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated prior to the accident flight the airplane had demonstrated poor (soft) braking qualities following its last annual inspection which required the pilot to pump the brakes. He also stated during departure for the cross country flight he did not lock the tail wheel. During landing at his destination, the airplane became uncontrollable and ground looped to the left, resulting in the right landing gear collapsing and substantially damaging the right wing. Subsequent inspection of the airplane revealed the wheel brakes were improperly adjusted.