What must be done if the boom extension is offset when removing intermediate boom sections?

If the boom extension is offset while removing intermediate boom sections, lowering the main boom until the head sheave is on the ground is necessary to ensure safety and proper alignment. This action stabilizes the assembly, allowing for the safe removal of the intermediate sections without risk of structural failure or additional offset that could lead to accidents.

When the head sheave is grounded, it generally helps in redistributing the load and adjusting the angles involved, ensuring that the boom extension can be managed safely. This also provides a more controlled environment for any further adjustments that may be needed.

Other actions, such as increasing cable tension or lifting the boom extension higher, could create further instability or complications, making the situation riskier. Adjusting the offset using a pulley might sound plausible, but it requires careful consideration of load distribution and could complicate the removal process if not executed correctly. Thus, lowering the main boom is the most straightforward and secure method to handle an offset situation.