What happened
Following touchdown, the pilot experienced a loss of directional control as the aircraft slowed. Despite applying left aileron and rudder to compensate for a slight crosswind, the aircraft began turning more severely to the right. The pilot attempted to use the left brake without success. As the aircraft veered approximately 30 degrees off the runway centerline, the pilot applied the right brake to slow the movement. At a speed of 35 to 40 knots, the aircraft began to skid toward the side of the runway. Upon contacting slushy grass, the aircraft tipped to the left, causing the left wing and left horizontal stabilizer to strike the ground before the aircraft settled back onto its main gear. The aircraft continued to turn until it came to a stop facing the runway.
The investigation
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft revealed that the tailwheel steering pawl was worn. This wear prevented the locking collar from securing sufficiently, which allowed the tailwheel to castor during the landing.