Incident Description
During the takeoff roll, the pilot of a tailwheel aircraft noticed a pulling motion to the left. Despite this observation, the pilot chose to continue the departure. As the tailwheel aircraft's tail came up and it accelerated to approximately 40 mph, it swerved sharply to the left and subsequently nosed over, resulting in a ground loop.
Investigation Findings
An investigation into the incident revealed that both tires had been replaced 41 hours prior to the occurrence. Examination of the tires showed evidence of scrubbing and feathered edges. These conditions are indicative of an excessive toe-out setting on the aircraft's landing gear. The toe-out misalignment likely contributed to the directional control difficulties experienced during the takeoff roll.
The pilot's decision to continue the takeoff despite the initial pulling sensation was noted, but no further causal factors were identified in the source material.