Incident Overview
While approaching his original destination, a pilot lowered the landing gear and immediately experienced a jammed rudder control system. The pilot reported that retracting the landing gear resolved the control problem. Deciding to return to Mesa where crash fire rescue equipment was available, the pilot orbited the airport. Another aircraft then confirmed that the nose landing gear was cocked approximately 90 degrees to the right. The pilot declared an emergency and landed. As the nose wheel touched the runway, the aircraft ground-looped to the right, collapsing the nose and right main landing gear.
Investigation Findings
An FAA airframe and power plant mechanic examined the aircraft. According to his report, the right-hand steering spring was found separated from the steering yoke. The pin, washer, and cotter pin that attach the steering spring to the yoke assembly were not located.
Maintenance History
According to the maintenance records, the nose landing gear assembly had been replaced in October 1991, about 200 flight hours prior to the accident.