Incident Details
During the preflight walk-around, the pilot observed that the elevator trim tab was in an elevated position. After starting the engine, the pilot adjusted the trim wheel in the cockpit to the takeoff position. During the takeoff rotation, the pilot eased back on the yoke and reported that the aircraft felt heavier than usual. As the aircraft lifted off, the pilot released some back pressure, and the aircraft struck the runway. The pilot then pulled the yoke back, causing a higher and harder bounce. Following the second bounce, the pilot reduced power; the nose wheel subsequently struck the runway and the nose landing gear collapsed.
Maintenance History
Approximately one month before the accident, a discrepancy was reported indicating that the pitch trim wire had jumped its groove. The same maintenance facility that worked on the aircraft on the day of the accident had repaired the pitch trim wire by repositioning the pitch trim indicator to center travel in the window.
Post-Accident Examination
The aircraft's type certificate data sheet specifies that the total trim tab travel should be 43 degrees, including tolerances. An FAA inspector examined the aircraft and found that the total trim travel available was 35 degrees. The inspector reported that the total trim travel favored a nose-down attitude, but it was off-centered by only 5 degrees. Additionally, the cockpit indicator was observed to move easily from groove to groove.