Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll which resulted in a runway excursion and nose-over event.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped stated that he felt that he lacked rudder authority during the takeoff roll which caused him to lose directional control. The airplane departed the left side of the runway surface and subsequently nosed over, resulting in substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and right wing. A postaccident examination of the airplane’s rudder control system revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.