Primary finding
Probable cause
The improper installation of the right rudder control cable by maintenance personnel, which resulted in the pilot's inability to maintain directional control during takeoff.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during the takeoff roll, he was unable to correct an uncommanded left yaw with control inputs, so he elected to abort the takeoff. During rollout, the airplane departed the left side of the runway and the landing gear collapsed, which resulted in substantial damage to the right wing spar. A postaccident examination revealed that a "nicopress" fitting on the left rudder cable had failed and disconnected from its bell-crank. The cable fitting had been pressed with an improper tool or technique at installation. The airplane's entire flight control system had been refitted and re-rigged approximately 9 years prior to the accident.
Source record
Factual narrative
During the takeoff roll, an uncommanded left yaw could not be corrected with control inputs, so the pilot elected to abort the takeoff. During rollout, the airplane departed the left side of the runway, and the landing gear collapsed, which resulted in substantial damage to the left wing spar. Examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that a "nicopress" fitting on the right rudder cable had failed, and disconnected from its bell-crank. According to the Inspector, the cable fitting had been pressed with an improper tool or technique at installation. The airplane's entire flight control system was refitted and re-rigged approximately 9 years prior to the accident.