What should you do if a grader blade becomes hung up on a high point?

What should you do if a grader blade becomes hung up on a high point?

• A. Continue moving slowly to work around the obstruction.
• B. Stop, lower the blade, clear the obstruction if safe, and resume operation gradually.
• C. Raise the blade higher and push past the obstruction.
• D. Shut down the machine and wait for help.

Answer: (C)

When a grader blade is hung up on a high point, the safe and proper action is to stop the machine, lower the blade, clear the obstruction if it’s safe to do so, and then resume operation gradually. Lowering the blade reduces the leverage and pressure against the obstruction, making it easier to free without bending or breaking components or causing a sudden, unpredictable movement. Pushing past by raising the blade risks damaging the blade, linkages, or hydraulics, and can cause the machine to kick or tip, posing a safety hazard. Clearing the obstruction first and then continuing at a controlled pace minimizes damage and keeps you and bystanders safer.

When a grader blade is hung up on a high point, the safe and proper action is to stop the machine, lower the blade, clear the obstruction if it’s safe to do so, and then resume operation gradually. Lowering the blade reduces the leverage and pressure against the obstruction, making it easier to free without bending or breaking components or causing a sudden, unpredictable movement. Pushing past by raising the blade risks damaging the blade, linkages, or hydraulics, and can cause the machine to kick or tip, posing a safety hazard. Clearing the obstruction first and then continuing at a controlled pace minimizes damage and keeps you and bystanders safer.