Event Description
The pilot reported that the aircraft nosed over during the landing roll. The flight had just completed a glider tow mission. On touchdown, the tail wheel began to shimmy excessively. The aircraft then lifted off and settled back onto the runway, at which point the tail wheel shimmy became worse. The aircraft continued along the runway for approximately 20 feet before nosing over.
Aircraft and Equipment Details
The aircraft is equipped with a castoring axle assembly for the tail wheel. This type of assembly is designed to allow the tail wheel to swivel freely. The pilot did not report any prior issues with the tail wheel or landing gear.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the castoring axle assembly was conducted. The inspection revealed that the assembly had been serviced with an insufficient amount of hydraulic fluid. The lack of proper hydraulic fluid could affect the damping characteristics of the assembly, potentially leading to shimmy.
No other anomalies were noted in the landing gear system.