Accident Sequence
The pilot of a ski-equipped aircraft departed from an abandoned strip that was in a deteriorating condition with rocks scattered along the landing area. Upon arriving at the destination, the pilot landed on a well-graded runway with packed snow that was suitable for either wheel or ski operation. After touchdown, the aircraft began to veer to the left. Subsequently, it exited the left side of the runway, and the left wing struck the left wing of a parked Piper PA-12, registered as N3140M. After the collision, the aircraft continued until it struck a snowbank, then traveled approximately 50 feet further before coming to rest.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the landing gear revealed that the left ski was worn. The overlayer was scraped away, and approximately an 18-inch outboard portion was bent inward. There was evidence that the ski had struck the snowbank while the left wing was low, causing a transverse fracture and failure of the left axle. The axle was identified as a non-standard C-185 axle. Improper bolts had been used to install the non-standard axles, and no shims had been used to provide proper axle alignment.