Accident Overview
A pilot of a single-engine airplane experienced an accident while conducting touch-and-go landings to evaluate a recent tail wheel maintenance. The tail wheel had been serviced to address a shimmy issue, and the pilot was advised to practice landings to assess the repair.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that after several landings, the shimmy had improved but was not completely resolved. During the sixth landing, the tail wheel contacted the runway, resulting in an intense and violent oscillation. The airplane veered to the right, and the pilot initially applied pressure to only one brake in an attempt to correct. As the aircraft continued to depart the runway, both brakes were applied, causing the airplane to flip over. The pilot stated that there were no mechanical problems and that the accident could have been prevented if the airplane had been kept on the runway.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing strut and the rudder. The pilot reported no other damage or injuries.