Accident Details
During the takeoff ground roll, the pilot reported directional control problems. The airplane did not respond to right rudder inputs, prompting the pilot to lift off early to prevent departing the left side of the pavement. However, the aircraft lacked adequate airspeed and settled back to the ground in a left drift. The right main landing gear collapsed, and the aircraft spun around before coming to a stop.
Post-Accident Examination
The airport manager examined the aircraft and noted that the nose gear appeared intact. However, the right linkage connecting the nose gear steering collar to the rudder pedals was broken, with a piece missing. The manager inspected the taxiway and runway but did not find the missing piece.
Pilot's Observations
In his report, the pilot stated that the missing piece was later found 50 feet west of the crash site. He described the fracture face as having a rust-colored appearance over approximately half of the fracture, with the remainder appearing shiny. The part was not provided to the National Transportation Safety Board for examination as requested.