Tail wheel mechanism failure leads to ground loop at Rand Aerodrome

Casualties unknown • Runway 29 at FAGM aerodrome, ZA

A Starduster TOO SA 300 experienced a loss of directional control during landing roll, resulting in a ground loop and wing contact with the ground.

What happened

On 21 May 2014, a Starduster TOO SA 300, registration ZU-TOO, was conducting a private local flight departing from Rand Aerodrome (FAGM). After flying south of the aerodrome, the pilot and passenger returned to the airfield and elected to perform several circuits prior to landing.

During the landing roll on Runway 2xy, the aircraft reached a speed of approximately 35 mph when the pilot experienced sudden rudder stiffness, followed by a total lack of response to rudder inputs. This loss of authority caused the aircraft to veer right, exiting the runway and entering a ground loop. During the maneuver, the left lower wing struck the ground, and the left tire deflated, causing damage to the wheel fairing. The aircraft eventually came to a stop facing the opposite direction of its initial landing heading. There were no injuries to the pilot or the passenger.

The investigation

SACAA AIID investigators examined the aircraft's tail wheel assembly to determine why the rudder became ineffective. The investigation focused on the 'clutch type mechanism' used to lock the tail wheel for directional control during takeoff and landing.

Upon inspection of the assembly, investigators discovered that the tail wheel mechanism pin was out of its proper position. Additionally, damage was found on the top left of the contact plate. This damage allowed the slider to move beyond its intended limit and travel behind the housing, which prevented the clutch assembly from engaging and left the tail wheel in a free-caster mode.

Probable cause

The loss of directional control during the landing roll was caused by the tail wheel mechanism pin being out of position, which prevented the rudder from controlling the tail wheel.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2014-05-21 Starduster TOO SA 300 accident near Runway 29 at FAGM aerodrome, ZA?

A Starduster TOO SA 300 experienced a loss of directional control during landing roll, resulting in a ground loop and wing contact with the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2014-05-21 involved a Starduster TOO SA 300, registration ZU-TOO, at Runway 29 at FAGM aerodrome, ZA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The loss of directional control during the landing roll was caused by the tail wheel mechanism pin being out of position, which prevented the rudder from controlling the tail wheel.

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