Nose Gear Steering Link Disconnection Leads to Vibration and Evacuation (N2773)

Incident

The aircraft experienced pronounced shimmy and vibration during the initial phase of takeoff. These oscillations were attributed to deep ruts present in the snow on the runway surface. Following landing, as the aircraft decelerated, the vibrations intensified to such a degree that the pilot brought the aircraft to a stop on the runway centerline and directed the occupants to evacuate.

Investigation

An examination of the aircraft after the event revealed that the nose gear towing and steering connecting link had become detached from the nose steering collar. Additionally, the steering quick release pin remained installed in the disconnected link. This condition resulted in a loss of mechanical continuity between the cockpit steering controls and the nose wheels, allowing the nose wheels to move freely without directional control from the pilot.