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Right Main Wheel Assembly Collapse During Takeoff (N959D)

Helena, MT, US

On April 20, 2002, a Stinson 108-2 (registration N959D) was involved in an aviation accident near Helena, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Fracture of the left main wheel assembly during the takeoff roll. Factors include the use of a wheel assembly not approved for the accident airplane, and the use of an oversized tire. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During takeoff roll, the airplane began tracking left; the right main wheel assembly and landing gear strut collapsed. Post-accident examination revealed multiple fractures in the wheel and an unapproved assembly not listed on the Type Certificate Data Sheet.

Event Description

The pilot reported that shortly after applying takeoff power, the airplane deviated left of the runway centerline. While attempting to correct, the right main wheel assembly and right landing gear strut collapsed.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the wheel assembly and tire showed the outboard wheel subassembly fractured along the bead seat ring in multiple locations. The inboard wheel subassembly also exhibited multiple fractures, and the brake disc had partially separated from the wheel.

Aircraft Information

The Type Certificate Data Sheet for the airplane lists several approved wheel-brake assemblies. The wheel assembly installed on the accident airplane was not among the approved configurations. Furthermore, the installed wheel assembly was not approved for use with tires larger than size 7.00-6, but the airplane was equipped with 8.00-6 tires. The airplane's most recent annual inspection occurred on March 7, 2002.

Structural failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Apr 2002 Stinson 108-2 accident near Helena, MT?

During takeoff roll, the airplane began tracking left; the right main wheel assembly and landing gear strut collapsed. Post-accident examination revealed multiple fractures in the wheel and an unapproved assembly not listed on the Type Certificate Data Sheet.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Apr 2002 Stinson 108-2 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Apr 2002 involved a Stinson 108-2, registration N959D, at Helena, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Fracture of the left main wheel assembly during the takeoff roll. Factors include the use of a wheel assembly not approved for the accident airplane, and the use of an oversized tire.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020426X00585. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.