N2146M

Substantial
None

PIPER J3C-65S/N: 20931

Accident Details

Date
Friday, October 3, 2008
NTSB Number
WPR09CA002
Location
Lynden, WA
Event ID
20081006X90012
Coordinates
48.955833, -122.458053
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
Highest Injury
None
Fatalities
0
Serious Injuries
0
Minor Injuries
0
Uninjured
2
Total Aboard
2

Probable Cause and Findings

The separation of the tailwheel spring retaining clip for unknown reasons, which resulted in the loss of directional control during the landing roll.

Aircraft Information

Registration
Make
PIPER
Serial Number
20931
Engine Type
Reciprocating
Year Built
1946
Model / ICAO
J3C-65J3
Aircraft Type
Fixed Wing Single Engine
No. of Engines
1
Seats
2
FAA Model
J3C-65

Registered Owner (Current)

Name
PETERSON SCOTT W
Address
574 US HIGHWAY 56
City
GARFIELD
State / Zip Code
KS 67529-2952
Country
United States

Analysis

The pilot stated that during the landing roll in a tailwheel equipped airplane, it veered suddenly to the right. Despite his control inputs, the airplane continued to veer to the right, exited the runway, and impacted a hangar located adjacent to the runway. Examination of the airplane revealed that the fuselage and both wings were structurally damaged. The tailwheel spring retaining clip was found separated from the tailwheel assembly. No anomalies were noted with the flight control system.

Data Source

Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# WPR09CA002