1.4 Stability
Understanding
the
following
definitions
understanding the principles of stability.
is
critical
to
Center of Gravity
That point of an object at which all of the weight of an object can be considered
concentrated.
Counterweight
Is the weight that is a part of the basic structure of a truck that is used to offset the
weight of a load and to maximize the resistance of the vehicle to tipping over
Fulcrum
Is the axis of rotation of the truck when it tips over.
Grade
Is the slope of any surface that is usually measured as the number of feet of rise or fall
over a hundred foot horizontal distance (this measurement is designated as a percent).
Lateral stability
Is the resistance of a truck to tipping over sideways.
Line of action
Is an imaginary vertical line through the center of gravity of an object.
Load center
Is the horizontal distance from the front tires to the line of action through the center of
gravity of the load.