Incident Overview
A pilot experienced a landing gear anomaly during flight. The gear up indicator light was not illuminated, and the gear was partially extended. After a second attempt to fully extend the gear, the pilot observed a green light indication in the cockpit but elected to cycle the landing gear several more times. With the gear retracted, the flight continued.
Electrical Issues
Subsequently, the pilot noted reduced electrical power output: the radio lights faded in intensity and the ammeter indicated a discharge. The alternator circuit breaker was found to have popped for an undetermined reason.
Emergency Gear Extension Attempt
The pilot referred to the operations manual for emergency extension of the landing gear. Despite 60 to 70 strokes of the emergency gear handle, the gear would not lower. After the flight, the FAA inspector observed the pilot pump the emergency gear handle "in and out." The emergency checklist states to pump perpendicular to the handle.
Post-Landing Findings
Following the landing, it was determined that the main gear were partially extended and the nose gear was fully extended. Structural damage occurred to the fuselage.
Investigation
The investigation did not establish a probable cause for the incident. The reason for the popped alternator circuit breaker remains undetermined.