SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ham-crank-up-tower-climbing

When may a crank-up tower be climbed?

Only when retracted or secured with mechanical safety locks.

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  1. Whenever the winch cable is tight
  2. Only while fully extended
  3. When retracted or mechanically locked ✔

Why: An extended crank-up tower can move if its lifting system slips. Retraction or installed mechanical locks prevent the sections from moving during the climb.

Huh, didn't know that: The lifting cable alone is not a mechanical climbing lock.

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The crank-up tower locked in before climbing into the schedule.
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References

Answer: When retracted or mechanically locked. An extended crank-up tower can move if its lifting system slips. Retraction or installed mechanical locks prevent the sections from moving during the climb.

  1. NCVEC 2026-2030 Technician Question Pool www.ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf
    must not be climbed unless it is retracted, or mechanical safety locking devices have been installed
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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