When Forney introduced the double fork nose gear, it also introduced the Belleville springs system to replace the doughnuts. For Coupers that had earlier models with doughnuts, and desired the double nose fork; Forney offered the Belleville system to replace the doughnuts, so as to bring the airplane back into a level position - if one has installed the double fork nose gear. Forney offered their Sure=Trac nose gear and the Forney Main landing gear Bellevilles ...kit for all Ercoupes ( above s/n 813). "FAA Approved for Ercoupes s/n 813 and higher and all Aircoupe Models" See copy of the adverstisment on page 318 in The Ercoupe, a Touch of Class, by Saletri. "----------Raises tail to proper level" This suggests that spacers are not needed if one has the Forney Nose gear and Belleville springs. (Belleville Springs do fail and collapse, requiring replacement of the springs on occassion). However, there are apparently some coupes with other manufacturer's double nose forks installed, that nay also require the spacers to achieve the level position. I personally prefer the doughnuts and spacer combination...works fine, simple, and at a much lower cost. Fly Safe - Have Fun Harry Francis N93530
