Incident Overview
During climb, a pilot observed the tachometer indicating a high and erratic reading. Subsequently, a sharp, piercing screeching and chirping noise was heard. The pilot adjusted the propeller control, noting an audible reduction in engine speed, but the noise continued to increase. He decided to return to the airport for landing.
Approach and Landing
While on a right downwind leg for runway 09, the pilot extended the landing gear and attempted to extend the flaps. However, the flaps would not deploy. He executed a slip to reduce airspeed and descend. On short final, the pilot inadvertently retracted the landing gear, unaware of the error until the propeller struck the ground during the landing flare. The airplane sustained substantial damage.
Postaccident Examination
Examination revealed that a bearing had seized inside the engine tachometer, which produced the screeching and chirping noise. Additionally, moisture had contaminated the hydraulic system and frozen, preventing flap extension. No other anomalies were found with the engine, propeller, or other aircraft systems.
Meteorological Conditions
The aviation routine weather report (METAR) for TEX indicated a temperature of 9 degrees Fahrenheit on the day of the accident.