Accident Overview
A witness reported that the airplane touched down within 1,000 feet of the runway threshold. After touchdown, the airplane rolled about 200 feet before the nose gear collapsed. The aircraft then veered left and came to rest inverted. The witness noted that the nose gear collapse left scrape marks on the runway surface.
Examination of the Aircraft
Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that the upper link of the nose gear torque knee had failed. A grease and oil film was observed on the fracture surface, consistent with a pre-existing crack. The pilot, who was also a certificated mechanic, stated that he performed the last annual inspection on the airplane approximately 11 months prior to the accident. However, the pilot could not produce the aircraft logbooks.
Pilot's Account
The pilot surmised that the crack formed after the previous inspection of the airplane but was covered by grease and oil from the engine. The pilot added that the airplane was frequently operated out of rough airstrips.