Incident Details
During an approach to runway 22 at McMinnville Municipal Airport, the pilot reported light and variable winds. On the second approach, following a three-point landing, the aircraft began to veer to the right during the rollout. Despite applying full left rudder, the pilot could not maintain directional control. A witness observed full left rudder input and heard the squeal of a tire, but the airplane continued turning right and rocked over, striking the left wing tip on the runway.
Post-Crash Examination
A post-crash examination of the aircraft revealed a crack in the lower left wing aft spar outboard. The damage required either replacement of the spar or a splice repair at the crack location.
Ferry Flight and Further Findings
During a subsequent ferry flight to Portland International Airport, the ATP-rated ferry pilot encountered a locked right turn condition. Further examination of the aircraft uncovered that the left control cable spring was not attached at the bellcrank behind the rear pilot seat. With the right control cable spring still attached and the left spring disconnected, the tailwheel would favor a right turn condition regardless of the rudder position.