For fleets and drivers using air-suspended trucks, accurate on-board load monitoring helps optimize weight distribution, improve safety, and stay compliant with road rules. This guide highlights five top on-board scales and related air-suspension monitoring kits, focusing on readability, installation ease, and compatibility with tandem axles and height-control valves. Each option provides direct weight readings, with interfaces ranging from analog gauges to Bluetooth-enabled digital displays.
| Product | Brand | Type | Display | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Right Weigh 310-54-RK Onboard Load Scale Kit | Right Weigh | Analog Console | 3½” Gauge | Simple installation for tandem axles |
| 510 Series Interior Analog Onboard Load Scale (Black Bezel) | Right Weigh | Analog Console | 2″ Gauge | Compact dash fit, clear readout |
| Right Weigh 202-DDG-02 Bluetooth-Enabled Interior Digital Load Scale | Right Weigh | Digital Touchscreen | Touchscreen LCD | Bluetooth, multi-axle weight display |
| PartLogix Air Pressure Gauge Kit | PartLogix | Gauge Kit | Analog gauge | Converts air pressure to weight |
| MEASUREMAN Air Pressure Gauge Kit | MEASUREMAN | Gauge Kit | Analog gauge | Complete monitoring solution |
Right Weigh 310-54-RK Onboard Load Scale Kit
The 310-54-RK kit measures on-the-ground tandem axle group weight in pounds using a 3½-inch gauge for easy reading. It is designed for straightforward installation and calibration and includes 30 feet of air line with fittings to connect to an air bag on the suspension. This option focuses on reliable analog display and simplicity for heavy-haul or commercial trucks with tandem axles.
510 Series Interior Analog Onboard Load Scale (Black Bezel)
This tool displays tandem axle group weight in pounds on a clear 2-inch gauge. It offers simple installation and calibration, and fits standard 2-1/16-inch dash cutouts, making it a solid option for trucks with updated dashboards while maintaining a traditional analog interface.
Right Weigh 202-DDG-02 Bluetooth-Enabled Interior Digital Load Scale
This interior digital scale supports multiple configurations, providing an estimated steer weight when installed on a drive-axle group and offering a programmable PIN. It supports two air pressure sensors, monitoring either a dual-height-control-valve axle group or a dedicated tractor/trailer set, and reports weight in pounds or kilograms via a touchscreen LCD.
PartLogix Air Pressure Gauge Kit for Semi Truck Trailer
This kit provides everything needed to add a pressure gauge to an air bag on a semi truck or trailer. It avoids drilling for mounting, includes hardware, and converts air suspension pressure into weight readings, supporting quick checks of load distribution on the road.
MEASUREMAN Air Pressure Gauge Kit
The MEASUREMAN kit offers a comprehensive solution for monitoring suspension loads on semi trucks and trailers. It enables accurate air pressure readings in each air bag, facilitating precise load distribution and straightforward installation across various suspension types.
Buying Guide
Key purchase considerations for on-board scales on air-suspended trucks include compatibility with tandem or single-height-control-valve (HCV) suspensions, display type, installation complexity, and data interpretation. When choosing between analog and digital displays, consider how you use readings on the go and whether you require wireless connectivity or data logging for fleet management.
- Display format: Analog gauges are simple and reliable; digital touchscreens offer more features like unit selection and data export but may require more setup.
- Installation: Dash-fit gauges save space, while external gauges can be easier to mount for some vehicles. Ensure you have the necessary air lines and fittings included.
- Axle coverage: For tandem axles, verify that the system reads the combined weight of the axle group and, if needed, provides steer weight estimates or separate axle readings.
- Valves and sensors: Some kits rely on height-control valves and multiple sensors. Confirm compatibility with your existing suspension configuration.
- Power and connectivity: Bluetooth-enabled models may pair with mobile devices for monitoring, but consider range, battery life, and the need for calibration.
- Mounting location and dash cutouts: Dash or console dimensions matter; check supported cutout sizes (2″, 2-1/16″, 3-1/2″) to ensure a clean fit.
- Calibration and maintenance: Look for clear calibration steps and included hardware. Analog gauges typically require periodic re-calibration, while digital units may offer automatic diagnostics.
Across these options, the best choice depends on your fleet’s needs: simple, durable analog readouts for straightforward weight checks; or feature-rich digital and Bluetooth systems for precise load management and remote monitoring. Consider how often you weigh loads, the typical axle configuration, dashboard space, and whether you prefer a plug-and-play solution or a flexible system with multiple sensors for larger fleets.