Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do Right Weigh load scales work?

How accurate are Right Weigh load scales?

How do you calibrate a Right Weigh load scale?

How often do Right Weigh load scales need to be re-calibrated?

Can the trailer axles be monitored from inside the cab?

How do temperature and altitude affect the performance of a Right Weigh load scale?

Why should I buy a Right Weigh load scale instead of a more expensive digital system?

What information is needed when purchasing a Right Weigh load scale?

Where can I purchase a Right Weigh load scale and how much do they cost?

How do Right Weigh load scales work?

Right Weigh load scales are designed for use on tractors and trailers that are equipped with air spring suspensions. Our scale system measures the air pressure in the suspension system and converts it into an on-the-ground axle weight displayed on our patented analog gauges that read in pounds (lbs) and can be calibrated for pin-point accuracy.

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How accurate are Right Weigh load scales?

The patented design of the Right Weigh load scale gauge enables the user to calibrate it’s reading to a certified commercial scale weight. Once calibrated, the Right Weigh load scale will provide accurate axle weight readings within 250 lbs., if not better.

To obtain the most accurate reading the vehicle should be parked on a level surface with the brakes off. Allow a few seconds for the leveling system to adjust the suspension to the proper ride height.

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How do you calibrate a Right Weigh load scale?

To calibrate the Right Weigh load scale follow these 5 simple steps:

    Make sure the load scale is installed correctly. Confirm that the suspension and leveling system are working properly (no air leaks, etc.). Load the vehicle with a load that is at (or near) the total gross weight for the axle group that is being monitored. Obtain a certified weight from an accurate in-ground scale. Using a small flathead screwdriver, turn the calibration screw on the face of the gauge until the reading on the gauge matches the certified weight.

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How often do Right Weigh load scales need to be re-calibrated?

Once the Right Weigh load scale is calibrated, it will stay calibrated. However, we suggest that the calibration be checked against a certified scale weight once or twice a year to ensure the air suspension, leveling system, airlines and load scale are all in good working condition.

Re-calibration must be done following any maintenance or repair work on the air suspension, leveling system or airlines. Re-calibration must also be done if the load scale is removed and installed on another tractor or trailer.

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Can the trailer axles be monitored from inside the cab?

Yes! Using a standard “quick disconnect” between the tractor and trailer, simply run an airline from one of the air bags in the trailer axle up into the Right Weigh load scale mounted in the dash.

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How do temperature and altitude affect the performance of a Right Weigh load scale?

Neither of these conditions have any effect on the performance of the Right Weigh load scale. Air spring suspensions operate on air pressure (PSI) to maintain the proper ride height, not on relative air density or volume. Yes, air density can fluctuate as a result of temperature and altitude. However, the suspension system will automatically adjust itself to maintain the proper PSI required to maintain ride height.

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Why should I buy a Right Weigh load scale instead of a more expensive digital system?

Cost, reliability and durability! If your goal is to increase productivity and save money by reducing or eliminating scale fees, out-of-route miles and over-weight fines, then there is no reason to spend thousands of dollars on a digital system. A standard tandem axle tractor with a tandem axle trailer can be outfitted with a Right Weigh load scale system for under $300. When operated correctly, the Right Weigh load scale will give you the information you need to legally maximize every load at a level of accuracy that is equal to (if not better) than any digital system currently on the market.

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What information is needed when purchasing a Right Weigh load scale?

When purchasing a Right Weigh load scale it is important to know the following information about your equipment:

For tractors:

    The make and model of tractor. The number of leveling valves on the drive suspension (single or duel leveling valve system). Whether or not the Right Weigh load scale will replace an air suspension PSI gauge currently mounted in the dashboard. Whether or not the tractor has a lift axle. Choice of bezel color, black or chrome. Choice of backlight, white or green. Do you carry mostly heavy haul, permit loads?

For trailers:

    The make and model of the trailer. The type of axle group (tandem or tri-axle). The number of leveling valves on the trailer suspension (single or duel leveling valve system). Are there any lift axles? Do you carry mostly heavy haul, permit loads?

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Where can I purchase a Right Weigh load scale and how much do they cost?

Right Weigh load scales can be purchased directly from us, or at any one of our authorized dealers. With over 200 locations throughout the United States and Canada, you are sure to find one near you. For a complete list of Right Weigh dealers, please go to the Dealer page of this web site, or click on the following link: Right Weigh Dealers

While cost may vary from dealer to dealer, a typical tractor-trailer can be outfitted with a set of Right Weigh load scales for around $300 USD (dealers may charge additional costs for installation).

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