CAT Scale - A Guide
Understanding the CAT Scale: A Comprehensive Guide by Zeus Transports
Certified Automated Truck (CAT) scale
Navigating the world of trucking involves understanding various aspects of the industry, one of which is the Certified Automated Truck (CAT) scale. At Zeus Transports, we believe in empowering our drivers and partners with the knowledge they need to succeed. In this article, we will demystify the CAT scale and explain how to read it effectively.
A CAT scale is a trusted weigh station that provides an accurate and certified weight for trucks. Knowing how to interpret a CAT scale ticket is crucial for truck drivers to ensure compliance with legal weight limits, thereby avoiding potential fines.
When you weigh your truck on a CAT scale, you receive a ticket that details the weight of your vehicle by axle group. A standard tractor-trailer typically has three main axle groups: the steer axle, the drive axle, and the trailer axle.
Steer Axle: The steer axle is the front axle of the truck, controlled by the steering wheel. It’s usually the lightest part of the truck, with a weight limit of approximately 12,000 pounds in most states.
With a weight limit around 34,000 pounds
Three Axel's
Drive Axle: The drive axle or axles, in a dual-axle setup, are connected to the drive shaft and the engine. They are responsible for propelling the truck forward. The drive axle tends to be the heaviest part of the truck, with a weight limit around 34,000 pounds for a dual-axle setup in most states.
Trailer Axle: The trailer axle or axles are located under the trailer. Similar to the drive axles, the weight limit for the trailer axles is usually around 34,000 pounds for a dual-axle setup.
When positioning your truck on the CAT scale, each axle group should be placed on a different platform. For a standard trailer, the steer axle should be on platform 1, the drive axle on platform 2, and the trailer axle on platform 3. The weight of each axle group is recorded separately, and the total weight of your vehicle is the sum of these three weights.
It’s important to note that the weight limits mentioned are general guidelines and can vary by state and by the specific configuration of your truck. Always check the specific weight limits for the states you’ll be traveling through to ensure you’re in compliance.
At Zeus Transports, we are committed to providing our drivers and partners with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the trucking industry successfully. Stay tuned for more informative articles on our blog, and drive safe!
Zeus Transports Tip’s & Tricks: Remember, regular checks on your truck’s weight distribution can help prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle. Always aim for a balanced load to ensure optimal fuel efficiency and safety on the road. Happy trucking!
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