How to Mount Weigh Bars to a Livestock Chute

Getting an accurate weight for livestock is paramount when calculating value for auction or any other form of sale. Rodeos also need to ascertain the weight of the animals for proper scoring in competitions. Fortunately, technology makes the task somewhat easier, as the animals can now be weighed in their chutes, i.e., the steel crates used for holding and transporting them. The advantage of this form of evaluation is that the cow, sheep or hog must remain stationary for the weighing. Central to this process is the correct placement of weigh bars, also known as load bars. These sensory beams serve as a scale, transmitting the weight back to a digital monitor.

Things You'll Need

  • 2 weigh bars
  • 2 connecting cables
  • Digital indicator
  • Bolts
  • Allen wrench or adjustable wrench
  • Drill
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Instructions

    • 1

      Join two feet -- appendages for stabilizing the bars -- to each weigh bar, placing one foot on each end. Bolts for this purpose are usually supplied with the scale system. Leave a slight gap when tightening the bolts, allowing the bars some flexibility when a thousand-plus-pound steer is atop them.

    • 2

      Affix the feet to a solid foundational surface. Many manufacturers recommend concrete, but look for strength and stability in any case. Measure holes in the feet to determine where you will drill on the surface for the connecting bolts. Space the bars so as to receive an even weight distribution for a variety of livestock.

    • 3

      Fasten the chute deck to the weigh bars. Again, fasteners for this purpose are typically included with the scale assembly upon purchase. However, some weigh bars may have a connecting channel through which holes can be drilled and bolts can be inserted.

    • 4

      Run the connecting cables from the weigh bars to the measurement indicator. Take care that the cables are not obstructed or subject to fracture.