Start by collecting all tools needed and reviewing the install manual to have an overall view of what steps you will perform.
For the most consistent and accurate weight readings check that the suspension system and the condition of its components are in good working condition. Air-Weigh scales with air pressure sensors are precisely measuring air pressure at a fraction of one psi; additionally, they compensate for temperature, altitude, humidity and barometric pressure.
Repair any leaks and replace any faulty HCVs before installing and calibrating the scale
Slow filling height control valves require that the driver waits longer for weight readings; Air-Weigh recommends the following height control valves if the fill time is problematic: Hadley 500C, Hadley NGH Ridewell Extreme Air, Haldex CR.
To get the most accurate weight with your on-board truck and/or trailer scale it’s important that the scale is installed to factory install instructions and calibrated correctly. To achieve the best accuracy results, park your vehicle on level ground with the engine running and the brakes released. For air ride, briefly deflate the air suspension and inflate to ride height. Note accuracy can be affected by poorly working or worn suspension components such as the leveling valve, bushings, or air line leaks. Accuracy can be obtained to within 300 lb per suspension group for air ride and to within 900 lb per suspension group for mechanical suspension when calibrated and compared with a certified in-ground scale.
Air-Weigh’s scale technology accurately calculates the steer axle weight based on the percentage of weight transferred from the 5th wheel to the steer axle. It’s recommended:
Ensure that the 5th wheel position used for calibration (sweet spot) allows for a maximum steer axle weight when the drive weight is a legal maximum (including the weight of the on-board fuel, driver, and any personal belongings) which will ensure maximum payload capacity.
If you change the 5th wheel position after it has been calibrated, the calculated steer will display inaccurate weights. The chosen calibration notch in the 5th wheel should be marked with paint to easily move it back to the “calibrated location” if it is moved.
Drive and trailer weights will read accurately regardless of the 5th wheel position.
If you move your 5th wheel frequently, you can upgrade to a measured steer option that displays steer weights correctly regardless of the position.
The following calibration tips will ensure you achieve the best possible accuracy with your Air-Weigh scale:
Be sure to use the same certified scale to obtain both your empty and your heavy weight data. The accuracy of the Air-Weigh scale depends on the accuracy of the certified scale.
In-ground scales that provide segmented scales will improve accuracy for calibrating each axle weight separately.
When obtaining weight data; park on level ground, leave the engine running, have a full tank of gas and release brakes. Engaging the brakes during calibration will lead to inaccurate readings.
Collect and enter empty weights when the truck is EMPTY
Collect and enter heavy weights when the truck is as close to the maximum GVW as possible
Brakes must be released when entering calibration weight data, and any time weight readings are taken
Trailers equipped with Lift Axles that tie into the main suspension HCV when down, and are only in the up position when empty (to reduce tire wear), are calibrated with the axle in the down position. In this instance, weight readings will also be taken with the lift axle in the down position.
Deflection sensors and brackets have a break-in period before you can calibrate. Review your install manual for proper brake-in period lengths.
**Break-in periods are dependent on a number of factors, including but not limited to: work environment the scale is subject to; road conditions; vehicle conditions; normal wear and tear. This can cause the break-in period to vary from 100 miles to 800 miles.
We understand every situation in the field or loading yard can be unique. It’s recommended to follow the below tips as best you can for accurate weight readings.
Park on level ground with the engine running and release brakes.
For air-ride suspensions, briefly deflate the air suspension and inflate to ride height before reading weights
If you have a lift axle and calibrated with the lift axle up, weights need to be read while the lift axle is up for accurate weight readings.
Using a personal identification number to protect your calibration data is highly recommended. The PIN number must be entered directly into the both the tractor and trailer scales.
If you have any sudden changes in accuracy and would like assistance, please contact the Air-Weigh customer support department at 1-888-459-3247or [email protected]. Hours of operation are 7:00 AM-5:00 PM PST Monday through Friday.
How to properly perform a clearing lift history. Play the video below.
