What step ensures outrigger pads have full surface contact and stability?

• A. Check each outrigger indicator, ensure pads have full surface contact, and confirm no movement under weight.
• B. Drive off without checking.
• C. Inflate tires more.
• D. Remove pads.

Answer: (A)

Ensuring full surface contact of the outrigger pads is essential for a stable lift. The correct step is to inspect each outrigger indicator, confirm that the pads are flat against the ground with no gaps, and verify there is no movement when weight is applied. This confirms the outriggers are fully deployed and bearing load evenly, which prevents tipping and distributes weight across the pad area. If a pad isn’t fully contacting the ground or there’s any movement under load, the system isn’t truly stabilized and the platform could shift or overturn.

Driving off without checking bypasses a critical safety check. Inflating tires more doesn’t address the stability of the outriggers themselves, and removing the pads eliminates the very contact points that keep the equipment from sinking or tipping.