Flight Details
The pilot reported that approximately 15 minutes into the flight, while the airplane was turning and descending slightly, the control stick suddenly snapped back with no pressure applied. The nose immediately pitched downward. The pilot responded by pulling the trim back to raise the nose while simultaneously leveling the wings. After regaining level flight, the pilot elected to return to his airstrip.
Accident Sequence
During the initial approach to the airstrip, the pilot found that he did not have sufficient time and distance to establish a steady descent using only the trim tabs for pitch control. He executed a go-around and attempted to set up a shallow approach. On final approach, at an altitude of approximately 75 to 100 feet above the ground, the pilot felt turbulence and the airplane began descending rapidly. The airplane impacted the ground with considerable force, breaking the left landing gear. It skidded about 40 feet before coming to rest in an upright position.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed that the elevator control cable had become separated from its Nicopress fitting. The elevator cable had been replaced by the pilot on February 8, 2001, under the supervision of an A&P mechanic. According to the pilot, the new cable was fabricated for him by an aircraft maintenance facility. The airplane underwent an annual inspection on March 6, 2001, conducted by the same A&P mechanic who assisted with the cable installation. The last flight prior to the accident occurred on March 8, 2001, during which the pilot flew for about 35 minutes without noting any anomalies.