On August 14, 1985, a Piper PA-30 (registration N7982Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Hollister, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During takeoff roll, the nose gear collapsed followed by the main landing gears. The landing gear control handle was found in the down position. The nose gear push pull tube and its attach bolt were bent to the left.
Accident Overview
During the takeoff roll, both the pilot and ground witnesses observed that the nose gear collapsed. This was shortly followed by the collapse of the main landing gears. The aircraft came to rest with all landing gears retracted.
Post-Crash Examination
A thorough post-accident inspection was conducted. The landing gear control handle was found in the down position. All push pull tubes associated with landing gear retraction and extension remained attached at their respective fittings. However, the nose gear push pull tube and its corresponding attach bolt were bent to the left. Additionally, the transmission assembly had separated from its mounting bracket and was found positioned in the retracted state. The landing gear motor was tested and operated normally, indicating no electrical or mechanical malfunction in the motor itself.