On May 14, 1994, a Luscombe 8E (registration N71128) was involved in an aviation accident near Deland, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: CORROSION AND SUBSEQUENT FAILURE OF THE LEFT MAIN LANDING GEAR STRUT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While landing after a glider tow, the left main landing gear strut of a Luscombe 8E failed, causing the wheel to separate. The aircraft nosed over and came to rest inverted. Examination revealed rust and a preexisting crack.
Accident Overview
A Luscombe 8E, equipped with a Lycoming O-320 engine producing 150 horsepower, was involved in towing gliders. During a landing sequence following a glider release, the left main landing gear strut failed, leading to the separation of the wheel. The aircraft subsequently nosed over and came to rest in an inverted position.
Examination Findings
An examination of the failed landing gear strut revealed internal rusting and a preexisting crack at the point of failure. These conditions were identified during the post-incident inspection.
Operational Context
The aircraft was being utilized for glider towing operations at the time of the incident. No further details regarding the operator, location, or date were provided in the source material.