Incident Overview
During a soft field takeoff attempt on a paved runway, a private pilot encountered directional control difficulties. The pilot had advanced the throttle fully and was holding the control column full aft to maintain the nose-high attitude typical of soft field procedures. Shortly after beginning the takeoff roll, the airplane veered left. The pilot applied right rudder to correct the deviation. The veer persisted, prompting the pilot to abort the takeoff. He reduced power and lowered the nose. The airplane then left the runway surface and struck a frangible airport sign, designed to break upon impact. Federal Aviation Administration representatives reported that no mechanical malfunctions were found that would have prevented normal operation. The forward spar of the horizontal stabilizer was bent aft due to the impact.
Pilot Actions
The pilot, holder of a private pilot certificate, executed the soft field takeoff technique as prescribed for soft or grass runways, but on this occasion the runway was paved. The technique typically involves keeping the nose wheel off the ground to reduce drag. With the throttle at full power and back pressure applied, the airplane's left-turning tendency required right rudder input. When the left veer did not respond adequately, the pilot decided to reject the takeoff. He retarded the throttle and lowered the nose, actions consistent with a rejected takeoff procedure. The airplane subsequently departed the runway and collided with a sign.
Aircraft Damage
Examination of the airplane after the incident revealed damage to the horizontal stabilizer's forward spar, which was bent aft. The FAA noted that no mechanical anomalies were present that could have contributed to the veering. The frangible sign was struck, likely absorbing some of the impact energy. The extent of damage to the sign was not detailed in the report.