Does raising the loader bucket or extending the backhoe move the center of gravity toward the rear of the machine?

When you raise the loader bucket or extend the backhoe, the center of gravity moves toward the front of the machine, not the rear. This is a critical concept in operating heavy equipment safely. As the bucket is elevated or the backhoe is extended, the weight distribution is altered, causing the center of gravity to shift forward.

Understanding this principle is essential for operators because a forward shift in the center of gravity can increase the likelihood of tipping, especially when the machine is on uneven ground or if sudden movements are made. This is why proper operation and awareness of the machine's stability in various configurations are crucial for safe excavation and construction work.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the dynamics involved. For instance, stating that raising the bucket or extending the backhoe would move the center of gravity toward the rear, only when fully loaded, or as dependent on slope, misrepresents the fundamental mechanics at play in heavy machinery operation.