N81HT

The 185-hour private pilot lost directional control of the fixed wing airplane while landing on runway 17R (a dry 7,009-foot-long by 100-foot-wide asphalt runway). The pilot stated in the accident report form (NTSB Form 6120.1/2) that after he was cleared by air traffic control for a straight-in-approach, he executed a normal approach for landing. However, when the nose wheel was lowered, the airplane "abruptly turned to right (immediately) and went off runway 17R, in spite of left rudder the airplane continued to go right." Several witnesses reported observing the airplane bounce once before it abruptly veered to the right of the runway. Another witness reported that the airplane made a normal landing, but suddenly veered to the right when the nose wheel contacted the ground. The airplane came to rest on "soft earth" on the right side of runway 17R. The pilot and the passenger egressed the cockpit normally through the cabin doors and were not injured. The pilot added that "he suspected that the nose wheel was stuck in the right position prior to the airplane touchdown." An FAA inspector examined the airplane at the site and reported the nose wheel and engine firewall were damaged; however, he could not determine if the damage was a result of the accident or from a preexisting deficiency. In addition, the inspector stated there were no mechanical deficiencies with the wheel brakes. Weather reported at the airport included wind from 240 degrees at 4 knots, clear skies, and 10 miles visibility. The reason for the loss of the directional control could not be determined.