We had a prob with the little chain which twisted, which in turn caused the peddles to become somewhat stiff but still functional.
The "Little Chain" is built not to twist. Sounds like it was tired.........
We inspect the chain on a weekly basis and replace it it after every 100 hours service. ****e happens with any A/c and the pilot of the day made the correct decision by taking the A/c to Ysterplaat.
Inspect, questionable and its not replaced every hundred hours. They last for years. As to the Pilot making a correct decision, that would be that he should have decided not to fly in the first place.
Better check the Airframe where the skids meet. No doubt the bounce will have caused a bit of damage.........