How should a long, heavy load be placed on a single-unit (straight) truck?
- Standing on end, just ahead of the rear axle
- Lying lengthwise just behind the rear axle
- Lying lengthwise just ahead of the rear axle ✓
- Standing on end, near the front of the truck
Answer: C. Lying lengthwise just ahead of the rear axle
On a single-unit truck, a long, heavy load should lie lengthwise just ahead of the rear axle, with most of its weight over or slightly in front of that axle.
Why this is the answer
The handbook says a concentrated heavy load belongs near the rear, resting on its long side when you can manage it, with most of the weight partly over or just ahead of the rear axles so the tires carry it properly. It also says the load should sit with its longest side on the floor and be blocked so it cannot slide forward. Lying lengthwise ahead of the rear axle matches both parts of that guidance, while keeping the weight off the tailgate.
Why the other answers are wrong
- A. Standing on end, just ahead of the rear axle — Standing the load on end in front of the rear axle ignores the handbook's advice to lay it on its long side, and an upright load is not the flat placement it describes.
- B. Lying lengthwise just behind the rear axle — Placing it behind the rear axle pushes the weight too far back, and the handbook warns never to load items on the tailgate because it strains the equipment.
- D. Standing on end, near the front of the truck — Standing the load on end near the front puts the weight far from the rear axles instead of over or just ahead of them as the handbook directs.
Remember it
Picture the load lying flat and long, sitting just ahead of the rear axle, with the tailgate left empty.