Accident Sequence
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that, during the landing, the tailwheel jammed, causing the airplane to veer left. After correcting, the airplane veered right. The pilot initiated a go-around, but once airborne, the airplane "did not appear to be producing proper power." The pilot aborted the go-around and opted to land on the remaining runway. At about 25 feet above the runway, he set up for a wheel landing and descended. When the airplane was approximately 5-10 feet above the runway, it "abruptly" sank, landed hard, and collapsed the main landing gear. The airplane came to rest nose down on the runway. The fuselage sustained substantial damage.
Post-Accident Inspection
During a telephone interview, the pilot stated that he believed the tailwheel had jammed prior to touchdown and that he had previously redesigned and altered the tailwheel. He also noted insufficient power during the go-around. However, after the accident, the tailwheel was inspected and found to be mechanically "okay." An airframe and powerplant mechanic who inspected the tailwheel assembly found no defects and no binding.
Weather Conditions
The pilot reported the weather at the accident airport around the time of the accident as wind from 320° at 10 knots, gusting to 12 knots. The pilot landed on runway 31.
Additional Findings
Photographs taken at the accident site showed torsional twisting of the propeller, consistent with the engine producing power at the time of impact. The National Transportation Safety Board did not examine the engine.