Since going to the wedge, it's no longer required. It definitely makes mating the scope to the tripod very easy esp in the dark. Asking $90 incl postage in Oz.
"The Mounting Assistant is a super-compact 8-1/2" X 10-1/4" mounting plate designed to simplify attachment of Meade LX200GPS, Meade LX200 Classic and LX90 telescopes being used in the Alt-azimuth mode with Meade's standard field tripod or giant field tripod. It fits the 7" MCT as well as the 8", 10", 12" and 14" SCTs. With this mounting system, you first, "square" the tripod using hardware supplied to insure that the legs are properly positioned. Then you simply place the rounded end of the telescope base against the three yellow positioning fingers and lower the telescope until it sits upon the base. Instead of wobbling the telescope sits firmly upon the plate and perfectly aligned over the tripod mounting screw. Simply raise the mounting screw and turn to engage."
More here
http://www.buytelescopes.com/product...7&display=desc