On October 1, 1999, a Cessna 210L (registration N2157S) was involved in an aviation accident near Fayetteville, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The right main gear down lock switch failed in the closed (down locked) position, and dried paint stripper and paint around the plunger portion of the switch prevented the plunger from extending. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported a normal landing gear extension but the right main gear collapsed on touchdown. Investigation found a failed down lock switch with dried paint stripper and paint preventing proper locking.
Narrative
The pilot reported receiving clearance to land. On a half-mile final approach, the landing gear was extended. The pilot heard the gear lock into position and visually confirmed the extension, noting the illuminated green light in the cockpit. Upon touchdown, a noise was heard, and the right main landing gear collapsed. The airplane subsequently exited the runway surface and came to rest in a grassy area.
Examination
Post-incident examination of the landing gear system revealed that the right main gear down lock switch had failed in the closed (down locked) position. Additionally, dried paint stripper and paint were observed around the plunger portion of the switch, which prevented the plunger from extending.
Probable cause
The right main gear down lock switch failed in the closed (down locked) position, and dried paint stripper and paint around the plunger portion of the switch prevented the plunger from extending.