Background
The aircraft had a recurring rudder/directional control problem. During a previous flight, the pilot used full right rudder to keep the ball centered. Before landing on that flight, the pilot made a low pass near the tower. Tower personnel reported that the nose gear appeared to be cocked to the left. During landing, directional control was difficult. A mechanic later inspected the plane and found that the nose gear appeared to have too much oil and not enough air, preventing the gear oleo from fully extending.
Incident
The pilot elected to return to Spokane before having the nose gear repaired. After takeoff, the problem recurred but required full left rudder. Later, oil was noted coming from behind the control panel. Not knowing the source or severity of the leak, the pilot diverted to the nearest airport and prepared to land with a 10-knot tailwind.
Landing and Impact
When the nosewheel touched down, the aircraft veered right and hit a snowbank. The runway was too slippery for the left brake to help prevent the veer.