On February 3, 2005, a Cessna A185F (registration N1767R) was involved in an aviation accident near Minneapolis, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: A failure of the tail wheel locking mechanism which resulted in the pilot's inability to maintain directional control of the airplane during the landing roll. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The airplane lost directional control after touchdown, veered off the runway, and collided with terrain. Post-accident inspection found a worn tail wheel steering pawl.
Overview
The airplane collided with terrain after losing directional control following touchdown.
Pilot Report
According to the pilot, after touchdown the airplane began turning to the right as it slowed. The pilot had already applied left aileron and rudder to compensate for a slight crosswind. However, applying additional aileron and rudder made the turn more severe. The left brake was attempted but did not stop the turn. The airplane veered about 30 degrees from the runway centerline. The pilot then applied the right brake to slow the airplane. The airplane skidded sideways toward the runway edge at 35 to 40 knots. Upon contacting slushy grass, the airplane tipped to the left, causing the left wing and left horizontal stabilizer to contact the ground. The airplane then settled back onto the main landing gear and continued turning until it came to rest facing the runway.
Post-Accident Inspection
Post-accident inspection of the airplane revealed that the tail wheel steering pawl was worn to the point that it could not sufficiently lock the locking collar, which allowed the tail wheel to castor on landing.