Primary finding
Probable cause
The inadequate annual inspection by a mechanic that failed to detect corrosion that eventually failed the engine mounts and allowed the engine and nosegear to deflect to the side during landing roll.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot lost control of the airplane on landing roll due to the engine and nosegear deflecting to the left. The pilot attempted to use brakes to keep the airplane on the runway but could not. The airplane swerved off the runway and struck a ditch. Post-accident examination of the engine mounts revealed that they had failed due to corrosion.
Source record
Factual narrative
On March 29, 1995, about 1205 eastern standard time, N38606, a Piper PA-28R, registered to the pilot, veered off the runway on landing at Kissimmee Airport, Kissimmee, Florida, while on a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed for the local flight. The private-rated pilot and his passenger reported no injuries and the airplane was substantially damaged. The flight had originated at the same airport about 1 hour earlier. The pilot stated while on landing touchdown on runway 06 the airplane veered to the right and the airplane crashed into a culvert breaking the right wing spar. The airplane was removed from the culvert and examined by a local aviation mechanic who stated he found the lower engine mounts at the pivot points that had failed during the landing. The failure would allow the engine and nosegear to angle off centerline. -