What effect does swinging a loaded crane to the low side have on the crane’s stability?

Prepare for the EICA Mobile Crane and Digger Test with expert-crafted flashcards and multiple choice questions. With hints and detailed explanations, you're set to excel in your certification exam.

Swinging a loaded crane to the low side decreases the crane's stability due to the shift in the center of gravity and the changed load distribution. When a crane operates with a load that swings toward the low side, the load's weight shifts in a way that can increase the moment arm—the distance from the crane's pivot point to where the load is applied. This shift can cause the crane to become more prone to tipping, especially if the load is heavy or if the crane is operating on uneven ground.

As the load moves to the low side, it puts more stress on the crane's structure and can lead to a reduction in the effective counterbalancing forces provided by the crane's outriggers or counterweights. This imbalance makes it increasingly difficult for the crane to maintain its position and stability, thereby raising the risk of accidents or tipping. Thus, the effect is a significant decrease in stability when swinging a loaded crane to the low side.

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