Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during the landing touchdown, a "tremendous tailwheel shimmy" occurred, resulting in a loss of directional control. The aircraft began to veer off the right edge of the runway. In response, the pilot applied full power in an attempt to regain rudder authority. As the airplane turned back onto the runway, the right wing struck a pine tree. Subsequently, the left wing impacted the terrain, and the propeller made contact with the ground.
Mechanical Examination
The pilot did not report any preimpact mechanical malfunctions. An examination of the tailwheel assembly was conducted after the incident, but no evidence of a preexisting mechanical malfunction was found. This suggests that the shimmy may have been a transient phenomenon, though the source does not specify a cause.
Sequence of Events
- The pilot felt a severe tailwheel shimmy upon touchdown.
- Directional control was lost, and the airplane veered right off the runway.
- Full power was applied to restore rudder control.
- While returning to the runway, the right wing hit a pine tree.
- The left wing then struck the ground, and the propeller contacted the terrain.
Conclusion
The incident involved a runway excursion during landing following a tailwheel shimmy, with subsequent impact with a tree and ground. No mechanical issues were identified in the post-incident tailwheel inspection.