Landing Gear Collapse and Runway Excursion
The pilot landed the airplane on runway 26R with all three landing gear down indicator lights illuminated. The airplane initially rolled normally along the centerline for approximately 200 feet, after which the left main landing gear collapsed. The airplane then veered off the runway and struck taxiway lights.
Postaccident Examination Findings
Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that the attachment location of the left main landing gear downlock bellcrank had separated and the attachment bolt was sheared. Additionally, a significant difference in the downlock tension adjustment was found between the landing gear components on the left side and those on the right side. The landing gear system rigging requires adjustments to the fork bolt and the push-pull tube to be made together and in equal amounts in opposite directions.
Component Testing and Metallurgical Analysis
The failed components were tested for chemical composition and hardness, and all met their material specifications. Metallurgical examination determined that all fractures and bends were a direct result of an overload event.
Maintenance History
Maintenance records indicated that a re-rigging of the landing gear system had been performed 10 days and 11 flight hours prior to the accident, following maintenance work on the landing gear system.