Community Forums

rideandslide · 05-12-2014, 05:21 PM

Hello All
Just wondering how does it work if you want to use the scale at truck stops to weigh your trailer ???
Jim

RickO · 05-12-2014, 05:26 PM

Generally not, although in some states they leave some of the scales turned on when they're not staffed and then it will work. Most often they only want commercial traffic through there.

Rick

truckerman75103 · 05-12-2014, 05:31 PM

I think the op was asking about truck stop scales.If so and you want individual axle weights you will need to go into the t/s and let them know what it is you want to do,their scales generally have a call button and that will help you as you position each axle.

RickO · 05-12-2014, 05:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by truckerman75103

I think the op was asking about truck stop scales.If so and you want individual axle weights you will need to go into the t/s and let them know what it is you want to do,their scales generally have a call button and that will help you as you position each axle.

Oops. My bad. You're right and those are the only places I've ever used.

Rick

rideandslide · 05-12-2014, 05:45 PM

Just would like to know the total weight of my TT.

RickO · 05-12-2014, 05:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rideandslide

Just would like to know the total weight of my TT.

Piece of cake. Just use Pilot/Flying J, or Loves or any other major truck stop with "Cat Scales". It can be a bit intimidating the first couple of times so it's a good idea to go inside first and tell them what you want to do and they'll make sure you get to where you need to be. Then you'll just go back inside and pay them and pick up your weight slip which documents the weight.

Rick

truckerman75103 · 05-12-2014, 05:53 PM

Total weight is easy.Go to the truck stop that has a scale Pilot,Loves,Flying J,Petro all the large stops have Cat scales.Pull onto scale look up at the big box and push button once.Fuel desk will be looking at you on camera and will ask 1st weigh or reweigh.When they have your weight he/she will tell you to come inside and get your ticket.10 bucks now i think.Be sure to move off scale before going inside though.

rideandslide · 05-12-2014, 05:53 PM

About what does it cost ???

truckerman75103 · 05-12-2014, 05:54 PM

Wow must of been typing same time as Rick....lol

vsheetz · 05-12-2014, 05:56 PM

I use the scale at a local large farm and nursery supply. Not busy, and easy folks to work with.

rideandslide · 05-12-2014, 05:57 PM

You got it !!!

wingnut60 · 05-12-2014, 06:18 PM

If you want to get the hitch weight, just get 2 weighs--go inside the terminal to the cashier handling the scales and tell her/him you want to get 2 weights without driving off. Pretty sure they will let you. Then go drive on the scales--should be at least 3 sections, maybe 4. Position your truck with the front axle on the first section and the rear axle on the second, and have the trailer tongue jack and trailer on the third section. Might take some jockeying back/forth to get it set right. Once you have the front and rear axles on the first 2 sections, and the tongue jack/trailer wheels on the 3rd section, call in for a weigh. When they say 'ok' ask them to wait a moment for a re-weigh. Then run the tongue jack down to just where it takes all the trailer weight off the ball WITHOUT lifting the truck any. Then ask for the re-weigh. Run the tongue jack up, drive off the scales, go in and get the 2 weights--first will give truck axle weights + total trailer axle weight. Second weight will also show truck axle weights and TOTAL TRAILER WEIGHT. Difference in first and second trailer weights is the hitch weight. Both gross weights will be the same.
These CAT scales can be intimidating if a lot of semis are waiting to be weighed, so it is best to find a slow time so you won't be nervous. Sometimes these scales are elevated, so be careful getting out/in your truck.
Joe

chaps2018 · 05-12-2014, 08:48 PM

Here is my strategy:
1-get weight of truck without camper (unhitched)
2-hitch camper, put truck on one scale and trailer axles on second scale, get weight on first scale and second scale.
3-Tongue weight =scale 1- unhitched truck weight
4-Trailer weight=(scale1 + scale2)-unhitched truck weight
5-Gcwr= scale 1+scale 2 weight

I think the three weights cost me $14 at Loves