Pilot Actions After Warning Light
While on departure for an agricultural application flight, the pilot observed illumination of the gearbox chip detector light approximately five miles from the runway. In response, the pilot decided to reverse course and return to the airport.
Landing and Loss of Control
The airplane landed on runway 34 with a reported tailwind. According to the pilot, during the landing roll, the aircraft's nose made a sharp left turn as beta and braking were initiated. The airplane subsequently skidded and exited the left side of the runway, entering a field where it impacted a berm. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the wings.
Wind and Weather Conditions
Shortly after the accident, the operator stated that the pilot had landed with a tailwind. The pilot later reported winds from 300 degrees at 12 knots. The closest weather reporting station, located 7 miles east in Marysville, reported winds at the time of the accident as 140 degrees at 14 knots, gusting to 17 knots.
Operator Observations
The operator also stated that there were no known mechanical failures and that parallel and equal skid marks were left on the runway by the airplane as it decelerated.
Damage Assessment
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings as a result of the impact with the berm.