What Size And Length Bolts Should I Use To Install The CE Smith I-Beam Clamp CE27681G?
Updated 03/31/2026 | Published 03/26/2026 >
Question:
I have your trailer guide clamps. My beam on the trailer is 3 1/2 wide. What size and length bolt should I use to install them?
asked by: Tom G
Expert Reply:
Hey Tom, thanks for reaching out, and good question, and this one’s actually simpler than it looks once you see how CE Smith sets these up.
The CE Smith I-Beam Clamp # CE27681G is designed around 3/8" hardware, not anything bigger. The clamp itself will accept up to a 3/8" diameter bolt, which is the size you want to stick with.
For length, there isn’t one exact number because it depends on your I-beam flange thickness and what you’re clamping to it. For a 3.5" beam, you'll probably land in the 2-1/2" to 4" range. Just make sure you’ve got enough thread to fully engage the nut after going through both clamp halves and the beam. If you’re between sizes, go a little longer and trim it or live with a bit of extra thread sticking out. You should have no problem finding something compatible at your local hardware store.
What kind of boat do you haul? Is it for fishing or more for leisure?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
CE Smith I-Beam Clamp for Boat Trailers - Galvanized Steel - Qty 1
- Boat Trailer Parts
- Guides
- I-Beam Clamp
- Galvanized Steel
- CE Smith
more information >
Continue Researching
- Search Results: galvanized trailer guides
- Shop: CE Smith I-Beam Clamp for Boat Trailers - Galvanized Steel - Qty 1
- Search Results: galvanized torsion axle
- Video: CE Smith Boat Trailer Parts CE27605PG Review
- Video: CE Smith I-Beam Clamp for Boat Trailers Review
- Video: Breaking Down the CE Smith Post-Style Guide-Ons for Boat Trailers
- Shop: CE Smith I-Beam Clamps for Boat Trailers - Galvanized Steel - 2 Sets
- Shop: CE Smith Post-Style Guide-Ons for Boat Trailers - 40" Tall - Black - 1 Pair
- Shop: CE Smith Post-Style Guide-Ons for Boat Trailers - 40" Tall - White - 1 Pair
- Shop: Replacement Upright for CE Smith Bunk-Style Guide-Ons for Boat Trailers - Lanced - 18"
- Shop: Replacement Upright for CE Smith Bunk-Style Guide-Ons for Boat Trailers - Lanced - 39"
- Q&A: Lug Nut Torque Chart for Trailer Wheels
- Search Results: trailer hitch
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Curt Powered Tail Light Converter with 4-Pole Flat Trailer Connector
- Article: Trailer Wiring Diagrams
- Q&A: Installation Time for Blue Ox BX1128 Flat Tow Base Plate Kit for 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Video: Measuring To Choose The Right Trailer Axle
- Article: Brake Controller 7- and 4-Way Installation Kit (ETBC7)
- Search Results: trailer tires and wheels
- Shop: Suspension Enhancement
- Article: How to Measure Your Trailer Wheel Bolt Pattern
- Search Results: trailer wiring
- Q&A: Comparing Kenda KR03, KR35, And KR53 Tires
- Search Results: trailer jack
- Video: Review of etrailer Trailer Hubs and Drums - Hub with Drum - AKHD-545-35-EZ-K
- Article: How to Measure for Trailer Hitch Drop
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Q&A: Best Suspension Upgrade for 33" Tandem Axles: Road Armor vs Dexter EZ Flex for Ember 22ETS


