Landing and Bounce
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that he performed a three-point landing on runway 4. However, the airspeed was high, causing the airplane to bounce. The airplane then descended and touched down on the main landing gear. As the airspeed decreased and the tail wheel contacted the runway, the pilot sensed a lack of rudder authority.
Brake Application Error
In response to the perceived rudder deficiency, the pilot instinctively attempted to apply the heel brakes. The accident airplane was equipped with toe brakes, but the pilot's other airplane had heel brakes, and he noted that the heel brake application was instinctive.
Loss of Control
The pilot reported a crosswind condition. The airplane began to veer to the right. The pilot eventually applied the toe brakes, but the airplane ground-looped to the right. The horizontal stabilizer sustained substantial damage.
Weather and Mechanical Condition
The METAR indicated wind from 130° at 7 knots, clear skies, and 10 statute miles of visibility. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.