Installing E-Track On A Trailer With An Aluminum Bed

Published 09/28/2023

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Horizontal E Track - Galvanized Steel - 2,000 lbs - 5' Long

(1360)

$43.01

etrailer E-Track Backing Plates w/ Hardware - Galvanized Steel - 6" Long x 6" Wide - Qty 3

(291)

$29.36

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.

expert reply by: Jesse M