What happened
The pilot reported that during a wheel landing, the aircraft experienced a bounce, though it was not severe. He applied sufficient power to recover and executed a smooth three-point touchdown. Immediately following this, the aircraft began a gradual skidding turn to the right.
The pilot attempted to correct the deviation using left rudder input, but the controls had no effect. He then applied hard left rudder and brake pressure; however, the aircraft continued its rightward swerve. As a result of this uncontrolled movement, the left main gear collapsed.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that the left tailwheel steering cable had disengaged from its pulley. The cable became jammed between the pulley and a nearby bracket. Evidence suggested that the cable may have been loose or out-of-rig prior to the incident, but the specific reason for its detachment from the pulley was not verified.
Findings
The mechanical failure of the tailwheel steering system prevented directional control during the critical landing phase. The inability to steer the nose wheel contributed directly to the ground loop and subsequent structural damage.