On April 8, 1985, a Cessna 310B (registration N5471A) was involved in an aviation accident near Shelbyville, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A bent and sheared retraction/extension torque tube to the right main gear, preventing full extension. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During approach, the landing gear failed to indicate down and locked. After touchdown, the right main gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to veer off the runway and strike a runway light. Investigation found a bent and sheared torque tube on the right main gear.
Incident Summary
During the approach, when the landing gear was extended, a down-and-locked indication was not obtained. The pilot made several attempts to lock the gear down, utilizing both the electrical and manual systems, but was unable to secure a positive indication. After touchdown, the right main gear collapsed, causing the aircraft to veer off the right side of the runway. Subsequently, the right horizontal stabilizer struck a runway light.
Findings
A post-incident examination of the landing gear system revealed that the retraction/extension torque tube to the right main gear was bent and sheared. This condition prevented full extension of the gear, compromising its structural integrity upon landing.
Probable cause
A bent and sheared retraction/extension torque tube to the right main gear, preventing full extension.