Identify the correct combination of front and rear link counts for collapsible fuel drums from the options.

• A. 55, 3
• B. 3, 1
• C. 3, 55
• D. 1, 3

Answer: (C)

The important idea is how the length of chain on the front and rear of the drum affects stability and balance during a sling-load lift. For collapsible fuel drums, a short front linkage helps establish the lift point without pushing the drum too far forward, while a long rear linkage provides trailing length that keeps the drum aligned behind the aircraft and dampens swing.

Having a small number of front links (three) sets the nose of the load correctly for the sling geometry and prevents forward tipping into the helicopter or snagging on equipment. The much larger number of rear links (fifty-five) ensures there’s enough trailing length to stabilize the drum, maintain proper center-of-gravity relation to the lift point, and keep the load from oscillating excessively.

If the front were too long or the rear too short, the load could ride with poor balance or swing unpredictably, increasing risk during flight. The arrangement with three in front and fifty-five in the rear is chosen to maximize stability and predictability, which is why that combination is correct.