Are Backing Plates Needed for Securing Vehicles with Horizontal E-Tracks

Updated 02/03/2026 | Published 07/02/2024

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer E-Track Backing Plates w/ Hardware - Galvanized Steel - 6" Long x 6" Wide - Qty 4

(269)

$45.86

etrailer Horizontal E Track - Black Powder Coated Steel - 2,000 lbs - 5' Long

(1306)

$48.57

Erickson E Track Tie-Down Kit w/ 4 Ratchet Straps with Roller Idlers and 2 Wheel Chocks - 1,100 lbs

(141)

$221.04

Question:

Considering E Track for 27 foot Enclosed Car Hauler. Planning to use 4 5 foot sections mounted through the wood floor into factory steel L channel using bolts and nuts. Should I use backing plates in between the L channels with bolts, bolts with washers, or will screws into the plywood deck be enough? I am also trying to decide between over the tire straps versus tire nets. Transporting 2 different cars in the trailer one has 108” Wheelbase the other has 112” so the e track will handle both from a length perspective. Both rear tire tracks are 60” on center, but one has a 58” front on center, the other is 60” on center. I am planning to use 4 3,300 lb idlers one per tire to keep ratchets away from low fender clearance. Is it better to secure the ratchet in direct line on the E Track or to the factory reinforced D Ring anchor points? Will the rotating E Track Anchor points bolt into the factory D ring holes without drilling new holes?

asked by: Don H

Expert Reply:

Hey Don, thanks for reaching out!

I recommend using the etrailer E-Track Backing Plates w/ Hardware # e66RR to secure the etrailer Horizontal E Track # e25VR to your hardwood floor. If you were going to be putting the bolts through the floor and into the L channels then you wouldn't need the backing plates.

Since you're dealing with low clearance fenders I recommend using the Erickson E Track Tie-Down Kit w/ 4 Ratchet Straps with Roller Idlers and 2 Wheel Chocks # EM58523-09162-4 to secure your vehicles. A net would be harder to get around the tire with low fenders, and this kit basically comes with everything you need to get your vehicle(s) secured to the E-Track.

expert reply by: Jon G

Jerred H.

2/3/2026

Hey Don, how did the E-Track setup in your car hauler turn out with the backing plates and tie-down kit? Did the roller idlers give you enough clearance around those low fenders? Your update could make it easier for others working with similar trailers.