Event Description
The first two legs of the flight proceeded without incident. On the third leg, approximately 15 minutes after departure, the pilot noticed a problem with the airplane's radios. He attempted to troubleshoot the issue and checked the ammeter, which indicated a slight discharge. Turning on all aircraft lights did not change the ammeter reading. He then secured all electrical equipment except the No. 1 communication transceiver and transponder. He checked the circuit breakers and reset the alternator switch, with negative results.
Pilot's Actions
The pilot received a light signal from the tower clearing him to land. He lowered the landing gear electrically. He reported hearing the landing gear motor operate and felt a sensation he equated to the landing gear locking into position. He looked out and thought the main landing gear were locked; he could not see the gear down and locked light due to sunlight. After touchdown, the main landing gear collapsed; the nose landing gear did not collapse.
Postaccident Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed that the "A+" electrical cable, which connects the alternator to a terminal block on the firewall, was separated from the wire connector at the terminal block. Further examination determined that the cable was locally manufactured and appeared to be too short, which did not allow for vibration.