Incident Overview
After takeoff and during climb out, the pilot reported hearing an unusual noise described as "like a chain popping or slipping around a sprocket" when the landing gear was retracted. Subsequently, the pilot observed the left main tire and inboard gear doors visible beneath the engine nacelle. The landing gear could not be extended or retracted. The pilot diverted to another airport and made an intentional wheels-up landing.
Post-Incident Examination
Following the landing, the nose landing gear actuator (part number 50-820208-5) was disassembled and examined. The examination revealed that the nut assembly had been painted white while it was in the EXTEND position. After cleaning off the paint and reassembling the actuator, it moved freely in and out as required. The disassembly report stated, "The nut assembly is a chromed metal shaft that is not to be painted."
Operator Information
According to the operator, the airplane had recently been repainted.