On some come-a-long hoists, the handle will flex when?

On some come-a-long hoists, the handle will flex when?

• A. Operating at rated load
• B. Recently lubricated
• C. Properly maintained
• D. Overloaded, and a warning to back off

Answer: (D)

Handle flex happens when you push a come-a-long beyond its rated capacity. The lever, pawl, and mechanical parts are built to handle a certain amount of force and torque; when that limit is exceeded, the extra stress shows up as bending or flexing in the handle. That flex acts as a warning to back off and reduce the load to within the tool’s rating, then recheck for damage and safe rigging. Lubrication or good maintenance doesn’t cause this, and operating at or under the rated load should not produce flex.

Handle flex happens when you push a come-a-long beyond its rated capacity. The lever, pawl, and mechanical parts are built to handle a certain amount of force and torque; when that limit is exceeded, the extra stress shows up as bending or flexing in the handle. That flex acts as a warning to back off and reduce the load to within the tool’s rating, then recheck for damage and safe rigging. Lubrication or good maintenance doesn’t cause this, and operating at or under the rated load should not produce flex.