Mobile Crane Operator — Core Knowledge
Load charts: practice questions
Our Crane Operator bank has 15 questions on this topic. Here are 5 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
Which items must be deducted from the chart capacity?
- The operator's weight
- Hook block, slings, spreader bars, and stowed or erected jibs as specified
- Fuel
- The cab
Show the answer
B. Hook block, slings, spreader bars, and stowed or erected jibs as specified — Check the chart's notes.
Question 2
Why do load charts specify the quadrant of operation?
- For appearance
- For travel routes
- To set swing speed
- Capacity varies depending on whether the load is over the front, side or rear
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D. Capacity varies depending on whether the load is over the front, side or rear — Some cranes have reduced capacity over the front.
Question 3
What should an operator do if the load weight is unknown?
- Ask the rigger to estimate it quickly by eye and then lift
- Use the LMI to guess
- Lift it slowly to see
- Determine the weight before lifting
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D. Determine the weight before lifting — Use drawings, scales or calculations.
Question 4
Under ASME B30.5, for a crawler crane, rated loads are no more than what percentage of the tipping load?
- 50%
- 75%
- 85%
- 90%
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B. 75% — This provides a stability margin.
Question 5
What must be done if the crane isn't level?
- Raise the boom higher
- Lift anyway
- Reduce the load by 5% only
- Level it as required by the manufacturer (often within 1%) before lifting
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D. Level it as required by the manufacturer (often within 1%) before lifting — Out-of-level cranes lose capacity quickly.