On August 4, 1989, a Cessna 177RG (registration N8203G) was involved in an aviation accident near Brighton, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The failure of the down lock spring, which allowed the downlock to release at touchdown. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During landing at Van Aire Airport, both main gear collapsed and the nose gear failed, damaging the wings and fuselage. Investigation found a failed down lock spring caused the release.
Circumstances
The pilot departed Heckendorf Ranch Strip (CO13) on a flight to Van Aire Airport (CO12) with the intention of loading the aircraft and proceeding on another flight. Prior to landing at CO12, the pilot moved the landing gear selector to the down position and observed a safe indicator light. Upon touchdown, both main landing gear collapsed, causing the airplane to veer off the runway to the left. After departing the runway, the nose gear collapsed in the dirt. The wings and fuselage sustained damage as a result of the incident.
Investigation
A post-accident investigation revealed that the down lock spring had failed. This failure allowed the downlock mechanism to release at touchdown, which led to the collapse of the landing gear.
Probable cause
The failure of the down lock spring, which allowed the downlock to release at touchdown.