In terms of stability, which configuration yields a greater margin of safety for a wheeled truck crane?

In terms of stability, which configuration yields a greater margin of safety for a wheeled truck crane?

• A. On tires
• B. On outriggers
• C. In transit
• D. With a suspended load

Answer: (B)

Deploying outriggers provides the greatest margin of safety because they widen the crane’s base and transfer the lifting forces to the ground through sturdy pads, creating a much larger resisting moment against tipping. When the crane is on its tires or in transit, the footprint is narrow and stability is limited, making lifting riskier. A suspended load adds dynamic forces and lever arm effects that further reduce stability. With outriggers fully deployed on solid, level ground, the lifting setup becomes significantly more stable and safer.

Deploying outriggers provides the greatest margin of safety because they widen the crane’s base and transfer the lifting forces to the ground through sturdy pads, creating a much larger resisting moment against tipping. When the crane is on its tires or in transit, the footprint is narrow and stability is limited, making lifting riskier. A suspended load adds dynamic forces and lever arm effects that further reduce stability. With outriggers fully deployed on solid, level ground, the lifting setup becomes significantly more stable and safer.