Incident Overview
An aircraft experienced a ground loop and subsequent landing gear collapse after the right brake failed while taxiing from landing. The pilot reported that he had recently installed new brake pads and had spent time taxiing to wear them in. After completing one takeoff and landing, the aircraft was being taxied to the ramp when the right brake lost pressure.
Brake Failure
The pilot stated that the cause of the brake failure was the master cylinder. The brake system had been serviced with new pads, but no other issues were reported prior to the failure.
Landing Gear Failure
Although the landing gear should have withstood the loads of a ground loop, the collapse occurred due to replacement side braces that appeared to be homemade. The original braces were solid one-piece castings, but the braces installed on the aircraft were two pieces welded together. These braces failed at the welds. The pilot did not know the origin of the braces; they were on the aircraft when he purchased it. The aircraft is of 1946 vintage, and many parts are no longer available.