If it is not possible to perfectly balance the line, what is the recommended approach for the line arbor?

If it is not possible to perfectly balance the line, what is the recommended approach for the line arbor?

• A. Lighten the line arbor on one side.
• B. Balance by shifting all weights to one side.
• C. It is usually better to leave the line arbor heavy.
• D. Use the rope lock to fix balance.

Answer: (C)

When a line arbor can’t be perfectly balanced, the safer approach is to keep it heavier. Extra weight on the arbor acts as a stabilizing counterweight, helping the line stay in a predictable position and resist movement from climber activity, wind, or other dynamic forces. A heavier arbor reduces the risk of the line tipping, drifting, or swinging uncontrollably, which adds a margin of safety for anyone on the line. Lightening one side or stacking weight all on one side creates a larger, more dangerous imbalance that can cause excessive swing or snag hazards. Relying on a rope lock to fix balance doesn’t address how the load is distributed and could fail under dynamic loads, so it’s not the right fix.

When a line arbor can’t be perfectly balanced, the safer approach is to keep it heavier. Extra weight on the arbor acts as a stabilizing counterweight, helping the line stay in a predictable position and resist movement from climber activity, wind, or other dynamic forces. A heavier arbor reduces the risk of the line tipping, drifting, or swinging uncontrollably, which adds a margin of safety for anyone on the line.

Lightening one side or stacking weight all on one side creates a larger, more dangerous imbalance that can cause excessive swing or snag hazards. Relying on a rope lock to fix balance doesn’t address how the load is distributed and could fail under dynamic loads, so it’s not the right fix.