Skylane 182/RG Turbo Skylane/RG
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Flight Instructor; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 55; Flight Crew Total 18200; Flight Crew Type 1800
Other / Unknown
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Ground Event / Encounter Loss Of Aircraft Control; Ground Event / Encounter Object; Ground Excursion Runway
Aircraft Aircraft Damaged; Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control; General Maintenance Action
Human Factors; Aircraft
I was flying the ILS for guidance for a visual landing.  Winds where light at about four knots.  Landing was normal at main gear touchdown but as soon as nose wheel contacted the runway the aircraft snapped to the left.   I applied full right rudder and applied right brake in an attempt to correct the aircraft back down the runway.  None of this was effective in correcting the situation.  Departed the runway to the left side and was able to miss the taxiway sign and all obstructions; I thought.  I was able to taxi off the grass and back to the FBO ramp.  On shut down I noticed metal missing on one prop blade and notified the Tower to check for a light that might have been hit.  They called me back shortly and did confirm I had struck one light.  I do not feel that this was pilot induced due to the weather and my experience.  However; my Mechanic will be inspecting the aircraft for any maintenance issues the coming week.  At this time the reason for the runway departure is unknown.
The reporter states that no deficiencies could be found with the brakes or nose gear after the incident.  The engine has been removed for overhaul so the aircraft has not been taxied or flown since.  The reporter believes that the only explanation for the loss of control is that his passenger; a large non pilot; may have gotten his foot on the rudder pedal at touch down.
C182 pilot lost control of his aircraft when the nose wheel is lowered to the runway after a normal main gear touch down.  A runway light is struck by the propeller during the runway excursion; but the reporter is able to regain control and taxi back to the ramp.