NEIEP Mechanics Practice Exam

If a car is used as a running platform without the cab, what portion of the total counterweight fillers should be installed?

1. Slightly less than needed to achieve balance

2. Slightly more than needed to achieve balance

3. Exactly half of the counterweight fillers

4. All of the counterweight fillers

The correct answer is: Slightly more than needed to achieve balance

When a car is used as a running platform without the cab, it is crucial to ensure the system remains stable and balanced during operation. In this scenario, installing slightly more than the necessary amount of counterweight fillers is essential. This additional counterweight helps to compensate for the absence of the cab, which contributes to the overall weight distribution and stability of the vehicle. Using slightly more than needed for balance provides a margin of safety to account for dynamic forces, such as acceleration, deceleration, and turns, where additional stability can prevent potential tipping or loss of control. This approach ensures that the vehicle operates safely while providing the necessary support for lifting or transporting loads. The other options, such as using slightly less than needed or exactly half of the counterweight fillers, could lead to an unstable condition, increasing the risk of tipping or other safety hazards. In contrast, installing all of the counterweight fillers may not be necessary and could result in excessive weight, making the vehicle cumbersome or difficult to maneuver. Therefore, the advised strategy is to slightly exceed the balance requirement to enhance stability while compensating for the absence of the cab.