Synopsis
A landing on runway 18 (8,300 feet length) resulted in a runway excursion and detachment of the left main landing gear. The incident occurred during the landing roll when the aircraft veered right and exited the runway surface.
Sequence of Events
The pilot conducted a landing to runway 18. The tailwheel touched down first, followed by the main landing gear, and the aircraft then bounced slightly. After the bounce, the aircraft began tracking to the left, and the pilot applied corrective inputs. The aircraft returned to and crossed over the runway centerline, but the pilot could not prevent a right veer. The aircraft subsequently departed the right side of the runway, and during the excursion, the left main landing gear separated.
Post-Accident Observations
A single tire smear mark was observed on the runway, beginning at the centerline, then arcing to the right and oscillating briefly before the tire marks exited the runway edge. Additionally, a blue smear mark consistent with the aircraft's blue left wingtip paint was noted near the runway's edge. The winds were recorded as out of the southwest at 4 knots approximately 2 minutes after the accident.
Metallurgical Examination
Metallurgical examination of the left main landing gear bolt revealed smearing of the bolt threads.