Casualties unknown

Ground Loop After Rudder Cable Bellcrank Torque Tube Failure During Landing Rollout (N5968D)

Stevens Point, WI, US

On July 13, 1991, a Piper PA22/20 (registration N5968D) operated by R. H. Rettler & Associates was involved in an aviation accident near Stevens Point, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The right rudder cable bellcrank torque tube failed, and the rudder pedal assembly and broken part did not conform to the STC design. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane converted from tricycle to conventional landing gear experienced a ground loop after the right rudder cable bellcrank torque tube failed during landing rollout. The rudder pedal assembly and broken part did not conform to the supplemental type certificate design.

Background

The airplane, originally equipped with tricycle landing gear, was modified to a conventional tailwheel configuration under a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC). The conversion involved changes to the aircraft's control systems and landing gear structure.

Accident Sequence

During the landing rollout, the airplane began to turn to the left. The pilot and an instructor onboard attempted to correct the turn, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The airplane subsequently departed the runway and groundlooped.

Investigation Findings

An investigation into the incident revealed that the right rudder cable bellcrank torque tube had failed. Further examination determined that the rudder pedal assembly and the broken part did not conform to the design specified in the STC. The non-conforming components were found to be associated with the failure of the torque tube, which likely contributed to the inability to control the directional deviation during the landing rollout.

Probable cause

The right rudder cable bellcrank torque tube failed, and the rudder pedal assembly and broken part did not conform to the STC design.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17498. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.