Incident Overview
A pilot encountered unexpected handling during landing when the aircraft's left main gear brake locked up, causing a deviation from the runway centerline. The pilot had reported calm winds from the Automated Weather Observation Service (AWOS) and was cleared to land on runway 21 after entering a left downwind pattern.
Sequence of Events
During the turn from base to final, the pilot noted a slight crosswind from the west and compensated with rudder and aileron inputs. The approach appeared to be set up for a straight landing, but on touchdown, the aircraft experienced a sudden bounce and pulled to the left. The pilot applied right rudder in response. The aircraft became airborne again and veered left, striking the 3K runway sign marker with the right wing.
Post-Accident Findings
A mechanic who repaired the aircraft after the incident reported that the left main gear brake was locked up. Examination of the brake manifold revealed that the washers used were oversized and were actually the washers intended for the fuel cell. The mechanic opined that these oversized washers could have caused the left brake to remain locked even when the brakes were not being applied.
No further details regarding the aircraft or occupants were provided in the source.