Accident Details
The pilot of a Stearman reported that the landing was conducted with a slight crosswind from the left. During the landing roll, while applying normal corrective braking for directional control and stopping, the right brake locked. The airplane swerved to the right, and the pilot was unable to correct the deviation using left rudder control and left braking action. Subsequently, the airplane ground looped to the right.
Post-Accident Observations
After the accident, a 50-foot long arcing skid mark was noted on the runway. The pilot stated that he thought moisture might have caused the brake malfunction, as the airplane had not been flown for several months. He also noted that he could not duplicate the 'locked brake' during subsequent taxiing.
Mechanic's Inspection
A mechanic inspected the brake after the accident and reported no evidence was found to indicate a mechanical failure or malfunction. In a later written statement, the mechanic noted that drum type brakes, such as those fitted on the Stearman, are notorious for grabbing due to moisture. The pilot had disc brakes installed on the airplane after it was repaired following the accident. A mechanic had noted no visual mechanical discrepancies of the wheel or brake when he looked at them a few weeks after the accident. When the airplane was reassembled after repair, the right wheel was jacked up, the wheel was spun, and the brake was applied for proper action.