Incident Details
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the takeoff roll, the airplane "pulled hard to the left." He recalled applying full right rudder pedal and realizing he was approaching the end of the runway. He then applied both brakes and reverse thrust. The airplane exited the runway to the left and ground looped. The right wing sustained substantial damage.
Pilot Actions
The pilot reported that he did not confirm that the tailwheel pin was locked prior to the takeoff roll. He further stated that in the future he will confirm the tailwheel is locked by working the tail back and forth, and will check the tailwheel for inhibiting buildup of fertilizer, grease, and dirt that would prevent tailwheel pin actuation.
Post-Accident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Safety Inspector arrived shortly after the accident. The airplane was operating under 49 Code of Federal Regulations Part 137, dispersing fertilizer. The inspector noted that prolonged use of fertilizer coupled with dirt can inhibit the tailwheel pin from locking in place. A photograph taken by the inspector revealed a canted tailwheel. The mechanic who performed an inspection on the tailwheel assembly reported that the assembly was "gummed up with fertilizer and the pin was not in place at the time of the ground loop."