Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
According to the pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane, he noticed that the engine oil temperature increased 25° higher than normal, while flying about 4,500 ft msl. He decided to land, let the engine cool, and check the engine oil level. During the landing roll on a dirt strip, the airplane veered left, the left main landing gear struck a bush, and the right wingtip impacted the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing and aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.