MSB Flintec
26 November 2014
Body-chassis alignment
Flintec load cells are designed to be installed between the body and chassis of industrial trucks. It is imperative
the load cells are installed in-line with the chassis and body rails with no misalignment or twisting forces
projected on to the bolts or fixings.
Alignment:
Because the installation of load cells involves the separation of the body superstructure from the supporting chassis
frame, care must be taken to ensure the separated elements are installed and in alignment; new build or retrofits. The
body must sit flat and load cell mounting bolt-holes align without the use of additional tools. e.g. jemmy bars or jacks.
Bolts should be inserted by hand and screwed by hand prior to final tightening with a torque wrench.
Marking the relative positions on the frame elements before assembly is an effective means of assuring proper alignment.
Also ensure the straightness of frame elements when cutting or welding to prevent undesirable bending or warping during
assembly. The use of a simple frame stiffener (rib, gusset or stiff-back), welded into place prior to modification, is effective
for this purpose.
Mounting Structure:
Optimum performance of DSB7 is dependent upon a solid mounting base for the load cells. Steel brackets of
heavy construction are required. Since this is a thicker section than usually found on trucks, a cover plate may be
necessary to evenly distribute forces to avoid stress concentrations and possible cracking in the thinner sections of the
superstructure. Locating load cells in the immediate vicinity of cross members or other frame strengthening/stiffening
elements to provide maximum support is also important for providing a structurally sound installation, as well as a
reliable on-board weighing system. When separating and/or aligning the body to the supporting chassis frame, be
careful when re-routing hoses, airlines, fuel lines etc. Some of these items may need to be replaced by longer ones to
prevent secondary load paths which cause poor weighing performance.
These items are also susceptible to damage if they are not of sufficient length to allow for frame separation or are not
properly protected at installation. Upon completion of the installation, look closely at all the elements of the mechanical
installation to avoid problems with pinched wires, ruptured hoses, etc., especially during the first operation of any
moving structure such as a dump body.
6
Top mounting bracket
Spreader plate
Body rail
Pocket weld
Bracket welded to chassis example
