Accident Sequence
According to the pilot, the landing was normal and the airplane initially tracked the runway centerline. However, at about 500 feet, it veered to the right. The pilot applied the handbrake, which he stated made the situation worse, and the airplane exited the runway.
Post-Accident Examination
A mechanic who examined the airplane noted that the damage was not consistent with a hard landing but rather with a sudden stop. The mechanic reported that the airplane's hand brake cable is connected to the toe brake cable, and applying the handbrake locks the rudder pedals, preventing the pilot from applying rudder input to control the airplane. Additionally, the rudder trim was found to be 1/3 of the way to the right of center, resulting in uneven rudder pedals when the handbrake was applied.
NTSB Materials Laboratory Analysis
The nose gear right drag link was sent to the NTSB's Materials Laboratory for analysis. The report showed that the drag link fracture surfaces exhibited a rough, matte gray appearance, consistent with overstress. The drag link bolt was bent 13 degrees relative to its axis, also consistent with overstress.
Pilot's Account
The mechanic stated that the pilot told him the landing was normal, and during the rollout he retracted the flaps, turned off the boost pump, and then applied the handbrake. As a result of applying the handbrake, the airplane veered off the runway.