Which statement best describes the function of a load chart for hydraulic excavators?

• A. To indicate the engine horsepower at various loads
• B. To show maintenance intervals
• C. To indicate the maximum allowable load at a given reach and radius
• D. To display fuel efficiency curves

Answer: (C)

A load chart tells you how much weight the excavator can safely lift at different positions of reach and swing radius. It maps the maximum allowable load for various boom/stick configurations and reaches, accounting for stability and the machine’s counterweight. This lets you pick a lift that stays within the machine’s safe capability, preventing tipping or overloading as the boom extends or reorients.

The chart isn’t about engine horsepower, maintenance intervals, or fuel efficiency curves. Those are separate pieces of information. So the statement that the chart indicates the maximum allowable load at a given reach and radius best describes its function.