Can Self-Tapping Screws be Used to Secure E-Track on a Trailer with an Aluminum Frame

Updated 09/09/2013 | Published 09/05/2013

Question:

Would self tapping screws pull out of an aluminium trailer frame to secure D-rings? I will be securing an ATV with ratchet straps.

asked by: Andy S

Expert Reply:

Self-tapping screws should not pull out of an aluminum frame unless you go beyond the capacity of the screw or what the aluminum is capable of. The aluminum capacity can be difficult to determine so the best thing to do to ensure that does not happen is to use fasteners that require nuts to secure them.

You have to be careful using nuts and bolts though because you can end up deforming the aluminum frame if you torque the nuts down too hard.

expert reply by: Michael H