How do you calculate the load on a sling when using a basket hitch?

• A. Add the weight of the load to the sling weight.
• B. Multiply the load weight by 3.
• C. Multiply the load weight by 2.
• D. Divide the load weight by 2.

Answer: (C)

When using a basket hitch, the load is effectively supported by both legs of the sling, which distributes the weight evenly. To calculate the load on each leg of the sling, the total weight of the load is divided by the number of legs supporting it. In the case of a basket hitch, there are two legs, which means the load is halved for each leg.

If you multiply the load weight by 2, you are essentially considering how much each leg would carry individually in the context of the total load being lifted. However, in a basket hitch, since the weight is supported on both sides, the calculation adjusts accordingly. Understanding that each leg of the sling will carry half the total weight helps in recognizing why multiplying by 2 gives you the total load whereas each leg handles half that weight.

Thus, knowing that the total load is carried equally between the two legs directly supports the reasoning behind arriving at the actual load each leg is bearing in a basket hitch configuration.