----[Please read http://ercoupers.com/disclaimer.htm before following any advice in this forum.]----Sean,
Ercoupe landing gear technology is quite simple. Keep in mind that these landing gear struts are un-pressurized. That means adding oil will not raise the height or increase strut extension. That is done using other mechanical means. If servicing was accomplished IAW the Ercoupe service manual, here are my thoughts:
If the struts were completely absent of fluid I strongly suspect that either (a) corrosion has set in or (b) the dried out O-ring seal broke apart and clogged the metering orifice on the piston assembly (fig. 12 ind. 16). With the landing gear raised to a point where the wheel is off the ground, push up on the gear and take note of strut travel. Is the travel smooth? Does the sleeve assembly (fig. 12 ind. 21) contact the upper stop on the piston assembly? Does the strut rest on the bumper assembly (fig. 12 ind. 24) when fully extended? How does this strut compare to the other? If a discrepancy exists, disassembly is required to troubleshoot and rectify this problem.
Could it be possible that the rubber shock absorbers are squashed on one side? Believe me I was shocked how much difference there was between the left side and the right side. Or if you have the belleville springs, some could be broken. Measure the shock absorber stack and compare this measurement to the other main landing gear. With that in mind, something could be amiss with the sleeve assembly that's on top of your rubber shock absorbers or belleville springs. The snap ring could be broken (fig. 12 ind. 18) and could be binding on your piston assembly.
Also if you have a dual fork nose gear, check your logbooks for any STC describing raising the tail. This procedure uses a spacer placed between the sleeve assembly and the top of the piston assembly. If so check to see if they are in place and in good condition on both main landing gears.
Please let me know what you find.
Walt Uebele
1946 Ercoupe 415-C
N94113
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