Troubleshooting Truck Scales: Common Issues & How to Fix Them

At a Glance:

• Ensure the power supply and cables are intact if the scale isn’t displaying readings.
• Regularly clean the scale and load cells to prevent debris buildup and inaccuracies.
• Check for proper scale installation on a solid, level foundation to avoid fluctuations.
• Verify calibration regularly to maintain measurement accuracy.
• Address electrical surges and consider upgrading outdated scales if issues persist.

For businesses that rely on truck scale for operations, occasional malfunctions can be frustrating. Sometimes, you might experience incorrect truck readings. Or even worse, no readings at all.

In most cases, the culprit is simple, like power supply issues or debris buildup. However, besides that, other factors could also be the reason like:

• Load Cell Problems
• Calibration Errors
• Scale Mounting and Surface
• Electrical Surges
• Outdated Truck Scale

In this article, we have provided 7 workable solutions to troubleshoot the truck scale not working issues. Keep reading!

How do we fix common issues with Truck Scales?

Check the Power Supply

If your truck scale isn’t displaying any readings, the first step is to check the power supply. Your truck scale fails to display the weight when the cables are disconnected, or the battery has lost its power.

Make sure all the power connections are secure, and the scale is receiving adequate power to run. Also, carefully inspect the power cord. Does it show any signs of damage, like fraying or wear? If so, you may need to replace them.

If the power supply is intact and the cables are functioning properly, then it’s most likely that the issue lies elsewhere.

Clean your Truck Scale

When debris and water buildup under your truck scale, it can result in inaccurate readings. While it may seem like a minor issue, neglecting regular cleaning can impact the overall performance.

Therefore, clean the weighing scale carefully using a lint-free cloth to get rid of the accumulated dust and dirt. Be gentle and ensure that it does not damage sensitive components. Clean often to avoid rust, corrosion, and downtime.

Next, check for standing water that causes rust and freezing issues. Make sure that the proper drainage systems are in place to resolve this.

Inspect the Truck Scale

The truck scale can fluctuate the readings when it is not installed on a solid-level foundation. That’s why, before weighing, ensure that the scale is mounted properly and distributes the load evenly across all cells. If needed, reposition the scale for better stability.

Also, inspect the scale frame for any physical damage, such as bent components or uneven surfaces. Verify that check rods are securely attached and not binding, as this can cause inconsistent weight readings. If you notice any damage, repair them to make them work again.

Check the load cells.

Are you facing inconsistent zero readings, incorrect full-scale output, or readings not changing with load issues? If so, it’s time to check load cells.

Load cells transform the mechanical forces, like the weight of your truck, into electrical signals. However, over time, dirt and debris in load cells can interfere with this process, causing your truck scale to not work.

To fix this:

• Look for the buildup and clean them if needed.
• Verify that there are no signs of corrosion or physical damage.
• Perform a zero-balance check to determine if your load cell is functioning properly.
• Make sure all the wires are in good condition and are securely connected.
• Remove any obstructions between the load cells and the scale platform.

Verify Calibration

If your truck scale is working but not giving the correct measurements, calibration could be the reason. Over time, calibration drift can occur, which impacts the scale’s accuracy. In most cases, it happens due to improper installation or environmental factors.

To check for drift, measure the small standard weight multiple times. If the readings are inconsistent, it is best to reach out to a professional technician for proper adjustment.

Fix Electrical Surges

Electric surges caused by lightning strikes, faulty wiring, or electrical overloads can damage critical components of your truck scale.

So, check the components like wiring, load cells, and circuit boards to detect damage and replace them if needed. You could also consider installing surge protectors to safeguard against future electrical spikes. You might as well opt for hi-technology portable truck scales to avoid this issue.

Replace Outdated Truck Scale

If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, your truck scale may be outdated. Older truck scales may suffer from wear and tear, leading to inaccurate readings, frequent breakdowns, and increased maintenance costs.

In such instances, your best bet is to replace your truck scale. When choosing a replacement, consider factors like capacity requirements, environmental conditions, and specific application needs to ensure you select the right model from renowned suppliers.