We then flew N79RA to an average grass strip and conducted takeoffs and landings at a range of weights and cg positions. Also, taxi test in tall grass and undulating surfaces was satisfactory. A Long-EZ with the spring strut and 500 x 5 main tires is now approved to operate from average grass fields . The prop damage that can result from operating on gravel is unacceptable. The spring strut is installed by simply removing the 2 bolts on the NG 10A pushrod and replacing it with the spring assembly.
Additional clearance is required by trimming away a portion of the strut cover.
The spring is intended primarily for the Long-EZ to give it the grass capability, however VariEze owners may want to install it to improve the rough field handling of the nose gear. The Long-EZ fiberglass strut is stiffer than the VariEze, thus the new spring is strongly recommended unless you plan to always operate from smooth surfaces. Without it, nose gear damage may occur from rough surfaces. The strut, ready to install, is being made available by Ken Brock. Ken will also stock the LST-6 spring for those wanting to build their own.