For each 24 inches of counterweights stacked on the arbor, what is used?

• A. A tie rod.
• B. A spacer ring.
• C. A shim.
• D. A spreader plate.

Answer: (D)

For every 24 inches of counterweights stacked on the arbor, a spreader plate is used. The spreader plate sits between weight segments to distribute the load evenly across the stack and onto the arbor. This helps keep the weight column straight and stable, prevents excessive wear on contact points, and reduces the risk of weights shifting or binding during operation. Other items like tie rods, spacer rings, or shims serve different purposes (holding components together, filling gaps, or fine-tuning spacing) and don’t address the need for consistent load distribution along a long weight stack the way a spreader plate does.