Cessna T210L N94086 accident near Fresno, California

Probable cause

A hydraulic fluid leak in the nose landing gear actuator rod seal, which prevented the hydraulic system from building up sufficient pressure to fully retract or extend the main landing gear.

NTSB analysis

The private pilot/owner reported that, after departing in the airplane for a local flight, he was unable to fully retract the landing gear. He attempted to fully extend the landing gear using the manual extension procedures without success. The pilot then diverted to a nearby airport and conducted a partial gear-up landing. During the landing, the airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing, aileron, horizontal stabilizer, and elevator.

During postaccident examination of the landing gear system, the hydraulic reservoir was found empty, the nose landing gear actuator rod seal was found leaking hydraulic fluid, and hydraulic fluid was found on the underside of the fuselage. It is likely that the hydraulic fluid leak prevented the hydraulic system from building up sufficient pressure to extend or retract the main landing gear. The nose gear actuator has no requirement for overhaul or reseal and is considered "on condition."

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13LA274 for the full record.