Using E-Tracks and Beam Sockets to Create Second Level for Cargo in 5th Wheel Trailer

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Question:

I am setting up a fifth wheel trailer to deliver residential bath vanities. These cannot be stacked for shipment. They are not very heavy. I would like to install E track on the walls and put beam pockets on two by sixs ,and cover them with plywood to create a second level in the trailer to haul the vanities without them being stacked on each other. Should I use vertical, or horizontal E track? I plan to use a lot of beams to make the floor level and stable. The vanities will be tied off as well,on each level. I was considering using horizontal track, so I could place them as needed. the walls have 3/4 inch plywood from floor to ceiling. The weight of both levels of vanities,plus the weight of the beams, and plywood floor does not exceed the weight capacity of the trailer,Im mostly shipping air. Any suggestions on how to do this right?

asked by: Danny H

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Erickson E-Track Wood Beam Socket you referenced, part # 59149, will work with 2 x 4 lumber or the 2 x 6 material you intend to use. These are usable with either vertical, horizontal or single-slot E-Tracks.

In your application you can use either one of the horizontal track lengths, such as 2-foot # EM59150 or 5-foot # E19148, or one of the other lengths offered, or you can use the single-slot # SLSU or 2-slot # EM19145.

The advantages of using the smaller sections are reduced overall weight and reduced expense.

Your trailer's 3/4-inch plywood interior will be an ideal mounting surface. You will want to select fasteners that will take full advantage of all of that material for maximum strength. The longer E-Track sections do NOT require a fastener in every single mounting hole, but I suggest at least 2 per linear foot on each side of the track. On the smaller single- and dual-slot parts all holes should get a fastener.

You will want to ensure you install the screws into the trailer's studs (behind the plywood) as much as possible, again for maximum strength.

expert reply by: Adam R

1

Answer 1

The correct product to use to support the boards you plan on using to support the bed would be the E-Track Wood Beam Socket #59149. Since you will want to have the 2 by 4s on edge to support the plywood, and the only way the #59149 could be installed…

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Answer 2

The service plan for the Galeo Pro part #GA94FR is offered in three time frames currently: Monthly/yearly/3-year service available from Galeo at $1.99/$19.99/$49.99.

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Answer 3

The UFP H-1377 correlates to a Dexter #84 spindle, which is for a 3,500 pound axle. This will utilize an inner bearing #L68149 and an outer bearing #L44649. As this is being used on a boat trailer, I highly suggest going with the etrailer.com…

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Answer 4

First, it does sound like, based on the measurement and information you have provided, that race #L68110, is correct since its outer diameter is 2.327 inches. This race is associated with bearing #L68149 which has an inner diameter of 1.378 inches…

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Answer 5

Self tappers like the part #SL99FR would work great as they have drill bits on the end which would make it through the metal of your studs and then attach.

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Answer 6

Since you have wooden floors in your trailer the hardware I would recommend for installing e-track like the part #EM19147 would be the Erickson Hardware kit part #SL49FR which is basically wood screws.

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Answer 7

In order to re-seal the panels on your trailer you can use the TremPro 644 Silicone Sealant part #0160297 as an alternative to the Loctite Urethane Sealant part L0150811. The TremPro 644 Silicone Sealant has a similar compound to the Loctite Urethane…

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Answer 8

Hey Richard, thanks for reaching out! The Dexter DX7.5 Drop-N-Go Brake Actuator #099-175-00 is a great option for a replacement actuator because it's a direct replacement for the common Model 60 actuators that were popular in the '90s.…

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Answer 9

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 10

You will have to go with a sliding hitch to allow the trailer to make tight turns. For a trailer 8 feet wide the only bed length that's going to allow 90 degree turns without a slider is a stationary hitch. That being said you have two options.…

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Answer 11

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 12

In order to determine the torque rating for the lug nuts on your trailer you will need to know check out the chart I attached that shows all of the torque specs for all the trailer lugs available based on stud size, wheel material and wheel size.

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Using E-Tracks and Beam Sockets to Create Second Level for Cargo in 5th Wheel Trailer

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