Installing E-Track On A Trailer With An Aluminum Bed
Question:
I have an aluminum open trailer made for a Slingshot, made by Aluma. I want to use E-track for securing my Vanderhall Autocycle to the aluminum bed. I had bought the black E-Track thinking I was going to buy an enclosed trailer. What track should I be using, black or galvanized, should I be using a backing place and what type of bolts, stainless?
asked by: Jon B
Expert Reply:
You can certainly still use the black powder coated E-Track on a trailer with an aluminum deck. You will want to put a layer between the E-Track and the aluminum of your trailer, to help prevent corrosion from contact of dissimilar metals. This layer could be made of pretty much any material like wood, rubber or plastic. The powder coating itself will provide some protection, but it cannot hurt to add extra protection.
It is definitely recommended to use backing plates # e46RR, especially if the aluminum bed is fairly thin. Generally we recommend using 2-3 backing plates per 5' section of track.
As far as the hardware, if you can find aluminum allow screws that will be best. That way we are not mixing metals. Otherwise stainless is preferred, or galvanized if it is available to you. It is always safest to add a rubber or sealant to keep the metals as separate as possible to prevent corrosion.
Products Referenced in This Question
etrailer E-Track Backing Plates w/ Hardware - Galvanized Steel - 6" Long x 6" Wide - Qty 3
- Accessories and Parts
- E-Track
- Tie Down Anchors
- E-Track Parts
- 6 Inch Wide
- Backing Plate
- 6 Feet Long
- etrailer
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
etrailer Horizontal E Track - Galvanized Steel - 2,000 lbs - 5' Long
- E-Track
- E-Track Rails
- Horizontal
- 4-7/8 Inch Wide
- 2000 lbs
- 5 Feet Long
- etrailer
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Continue Researching
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Tie Down Solution for Corvette on Open Car Hauler
- Article: How to Install E-Track in 3 Easy Steps
- Q&A: Recommended Replacement Wiring for 1996 Dutchman Duck with Obsolete Wiring Harness
- Q&A: Installation Recommendations For E-Track Horizontal Track System In Trailer With 2x6 Floor
- Q&A: Can Erickson E-Track Be Cut to Needed Length for Trailer
- Q&A: Best 2 Inch Hitch for a 2023 Kia Sportage
- Q&A: Where to Install E-Tracks in Enclosed Trailer Carrying Polaris ATV and Motorcycles
- Q&A: What Type of Zinc Plating Does the Erickson E-Track Have
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Article: Determining Trailer Tongue Weight
- Article: 7 Common Questions Everyone Has About Trailer Tires
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Article: The 5 Best Trailer Drop Hitches You Can Buy