Tips for Truck Scale Maintenance
Your truck scale is the cash register of your operation, inaccurate weights can lead to lost revenue. Regular truck scale maintenance along with regular calibration helps to ensure that your truck scale is giving repeatable and accurate measurements. Not sure how to check and clean your scale? Below are the 7 things you should check to keep your scale in working order:
1. Debris
Dirt, sand, rocks, trash, and other sediment can accumulate on, under, and around your scale causing mechanical bindings.
- Look under your scale and clear out debris with a hose or pressure washer.
- Ensure that your I-beams are clear of any dirt and debris to prevent deterioration.
- Check the clearance between the end of your scale and the approach bulkhead to ensure that there are no trapped debris.
- Inspect the edges of your scale deck by lifting any t-stripping and clearing away dirt and rocks that may have become trapped.
2. Standing Water
Check to make sure no water is ponding under or around your scale. Trapped water or moisture can lead to rust and corrosion.
- Pro Tip: Ensuring proper drainage is critical for pit-mounted scales. This can be accomplished through a gravity drainage system or a sump pump.
3. Sump Pump Operation
If your scale has a sump pump, check to make sure it is in good working order. Often, truck scale owners do not discover a broken sump pump until they’ve experienced a heavy rainfall and need to remove the water. Finding these problems ahead of time can prevent serious issues later.
- Pro Tip: If you live in a cooler climate, make sure that your sump pump is not frozen before attempting to turn it on.
4. Gravity Drains
Check to make sure the drain is open and free flowing with no obstruction at the discharge area.
5. Surface Rust
You can extend the life of your scale by removing surface rust with a steel brush and repainting. Not only does this keep your scale looking new, but it can also prevent deterioration.
- Pro Tip: Holes caused by rust result in a compromised structure that can lead to safety issues.
6. Cracks
Check both your foundation and deck for cracks and holes. Catching and repairing these early, can prevent more expensive repairs down the road.
7. Grounding
Check the ground connections to ensure the cables are tight and free of corrosion. This will help protect your scale from lightning strikes which could cause serious electrical damage.
Don’t have time to clean and check your truck scale? Our experienced scale technicians can perform a thorough preventative maintenance inspection and make any necessary repairs to ensure your scale is ready for the spring. Click the link below to schedule your next service appointment.
