Incident Overview
A pilot reported that, after takeoff, the left-main landing gear would not fully retract. The pilot then extended the landing gear and performed various emergency procedures in an attempt to fully extend the left-main gear. Despite these efforts, the left-main gear could not be locked in the down position. The pilot elected to land the airplane with the right-main and nosewheel extended.
Landing and Post-Incident Findings
During the landing roll, the left-main gear collapsed and the airplane slid to a stop. An inspection of the left-main landing gear revealed that the upper-main landing gear strut's outer-body to inner-body needle bearing had failed, and the lower needle bearing was near failure. The lack of lubrication in this area was noted, along with evidence of severe corrosion development.
Maintenance Program Findings
The Manufacturer's Inspection Program for this model aircraft does not address a calendar and/or time inspection interval, or lubrication interval for the upper and lower needle bearing.