Incident Summary
During an FAA certification flight of an experimental aircraft, the flight crew encountered multiple system warnings while descending. A duct failure light and a leading edge overheat light illuminated, prompting corrective action by the pilot-in-command (PIC). The flight continued with a non-type-rated FAA pilot occupying the left seat while the PIC occupied the right seat.
The FAA pilot conducted an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to a wet Runway 22. The approach was flown with the left engine set to high idle, and the thrust reversers were not armed for landing. The aircraft touched down approximately 2,000 feet down the runway, and spoilers deployed normally.
Upon realizing that reverse thrust was unavailable, the FAA pilot attempted to slow the aircraft using brakes. However, the left brake was inoperative. The PIC assumed control and cycled the anti-skid system, but no left braking action returned. The aircraft subsequently departed the end of the runway, and the nose gear collapsed in soft, muddy terrain.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident investigation revealed that during maintenance, the speed sensor harnesses for the left main landing gear had been incorrectly connected in reverse. This configuration eliminated braking capability to the left brake while the anti-skid system was engaged.