Types of E Track Load Bars
E track load bars are essential cargo control accessories used in trailers and trucks to secure and distribute loads effectively. Understanding the different types can help you choose the right solution for your specific cargo needs.
Fixed E Track Load Bars
These are permanent fixtures mounted on E track rails using brackets or fittings. They provide a stable surface for consistent load securing patterns.
Best for: Consistent load patterns, furniture transportation, predictable cargo arrangements
Adjustable E Track Load Bars
Designed with movable fittings or clamps that can be positioned at various points along the E track rails and secured in place for maximum versatility.
Best for: Diverse load sizes, electronics shipping, varying cargo configurations
Telescoping E Track Load Bars
Feature a sliding mechanism that enables extension and retraction, allowing the bars to fit securely within trailers of varying widths.
Best for: Multiple trailer sizes, enhanced cargo stability, preventing load shifting
Spring-Loaded E Track Load Bars
Incorporate spring mechanisms at both ends that exert pressure against the trailer walls, holding the bars tightly in place to prevent sliding.
Best for: Soft or lightweight cargo, clothing bales, items requiring gentle securing
Heavy-Duty E Track Load Bars
Manufactured from high-strength steel with larger diameters compared to standard load bars, designed specifically for oversized or heavy cargo loads.
Best for: Construction equipment, industrial materials, scaffolding, ladders
Expert Tip: When selecting an E track load bar type, consider not only your current cargo needs but also potential future requirements. Investing in versatile options like adjustable or telescoping bars can save costs in the long run by accommodating changing cargo profiles.
| Load Bar Type | Key Features | Best Applications | Weight Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed | Permanent mount, stable position | Furniture transport, consistent loads | Medium to High |
| Adjustable | Movable positioning, versatile placement | Electronics shipping, varied cargo | Medium |
| Telescoping | Extendable length, custom fit | Multiple trailer widths, precise securing | Medium to High |
| Spring-Loaded | Pressure exertion, secure grip | Clothing, lightweight items | Low to Medium |
| Heavy-Duty | Reinforced construction, larger diameter | Construction equipment, heavy materials | Very High |
Specifications and Maintenance of E Track Load Bars
Understanding the technical specifications and proper maintenance of E track load bars is crucial for ensuring their optimal performance, longevity, and safety during cargo transportation.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Range/Options | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Width: 2.5-5 cm Length: 2.4-3.6 m |
Custom lengths available for specialized applications |
| Weight Capacity | 680-1350 kg | Select based on your typical and maximum load requirements |
| Finish | Powder coating, bright zinc plating | Finish affects corrosion resistance and appearance |
| Material | Steel, Aluminum | Steel: durable, high capacity Aluminum: lightweight, corrosion-resistant |
| Bar Shape | Round, Square | Square bars offer more surface area for load support |
| End Fitting | Pins, clips, brackets | Must be compatible with your specific E-track system |
Maintenance Best Practices
Proper maintenance of E track load bars is essential for ensuring their reliability, safety, and longevity. Follow these maintenance guidelines to maximize the lifespan of your equipment:
Regular Inspection
- Check before and after each use
- Look for signs of wear, damage, or deformation
- Inspect end fittings and attachment points
- Verify that spring mechanisms are functioning properly
Cleaning and Lubrication
- Remove dirt, dust, and debris regularly
- Clean with mild soap and water solution
- Apply suitable lubricant to moving parts
- Focus on telescoping mechanisms and spring components
Safety Warning: Never exceed the maximum weight capacity of your E track load bars. Overloading can lead to equipment failure, cargo damage, and potentially dangerous situations during transport. Always ensure the load is evenly distributed across the length of the bars.
Storage and Handling
- Store in a dry, protected environment when not in use
- Keep away from harsh chemicals that could damage finishes
- Avoid dropping or impacting the bars, especially on hard surfaces
- Store telescoping bars in their contracted position to reduce stress on moving parts
- For spring-loaded bars, release tension during long-term storage
Maintenance Tip: Create a regular maintenance schedule for your E track load bars. Monthly inspections and quarterly thorough cleaning will significantly extend their service life and ensure consistent performance during cargo transportation.
How to Choose E Track Load Bars
Selecting the right E track load bars for your specific needs requires careful consideration of several important factors. This comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision to ensure optimal cargo security and transportation efficiency.
Size Considerations
E track load bars come in various lengths and widths to accommodate different trailer dimensions and cargo requirements.
- Measure your trailer's interior width at multiple points
- Consider variable width options like telescoping bars for versatility
- Account for any interior protrusions that might affect installation
Weight Capacity Requirements
Different load bars have varying weight capacities ranging from 680 kg to over 1350 kg.
- Calculate the maximum weight your cargo will exert against the bars
- Choose bars with at least 20% higher capacity than your needs
- Consider using multiple bars for distributing very heavy loads
Material Selection
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel | High strength, durability, higher weight capacity | Heavier, potential for rust if finish is damaged | Heavy-duty applications, construction equipment |
| Aluminum | Lightweight, naturally corrosion-resistant, easy handling | Lower weight capacity, potentially higher cost | Weight-sensitive applications, frequent repositioning |
Selection Tip: When choosing between steel and aluminum, consider not just the weight of your cargo but also how frequently you'll need to reposition the bars. For constant adjustments, the lighter weight of aluminum may outweigh the higher strength of steel.
Additional Selection Factors
- Type and Adjustability: Consider whether fixed, adjustable, telescoping, spring-loaded, or heavy-duty bars best suit your cargo profile
- Ease of Use: Look for quick-release features and simple installation mechanisms if you frequently reconfigure your cargo setup
- Safety Features: Evaluate load indicators, anti-slip mechanisms, and soft tips to protect cargo and vehicle
- Brand Reputation: Research manufacturer reliability, warranty terms, and customer reviews
- Price and Value: Compare costs across suppliers while focusing on total value rather than just initial price
Important Consideration: Always verify compatibility between your chosen E track load bars and the E track system installed in your trailer. Incompatible components can lead to insecure cargo and potential safety hazards.
How to DIY and Replace E Track Load Bars
Installing and replacing E track load bars can be accomplished with basic tools and careful attention to detail. Follow these comprehensive guides to ensure proper installation and safe operation.
E-Track System Installation
Before installing load bars, you'll need a properly mounted E-track system:
- Choose the right location - Select suitable spots on the wall or floor of the trailer for mounting the E-track rails
- Position the E-track - Hold the track against the surface and use a carpenter's level to ensure it's perfectly straight
- Mark drill holes - With a pencil or marker, indicate where you'll need to drill mounting holes
- Pre-drill holes - Use an appropriate drill bit (slightly smaller than your screws) to create pilot holes
- Align the E-track - Place the track over the pre-drilled holes and ensure perfect alignment
- Install screws/bolts - Insert appropriate fasteners through the E-track and into the surface
- Tighten securely - Ensure all fasteners are properly tightened to prevent movement
Installation Tip: When installing E-track on trailer walls, locate and mark the wall studs before drilling. Mounting directly into studs provides significantly greater strength than mounting to the wall surface alone.
E-Track Load Bar Replacement
When it's time to replace your existing load bars, follow this straightforward process:
- Remove existing load bar - Carefully slide or disengage the old bar from the E-track system
- Clean the E-track - Remove any dirt, debris or corrosion from the track before installing the new bar
- Verify sizing - Confirm that the new load bar is the correct size for your E-track system and trailer width
- Position the new bar - Slide the replacement load bar into the E-track at your desired location
- Adjust positioning - Ensure the bar is optimally placed to secure your specific cargo configuration
- Check security - Verify that the load bar is properly seated and engaged with the E-track
- Test stability - Before loading cargo, test the stability of the newly installed bar by applying moderate pressure
Safety Note: After installation or replacement, always test the load bar's stability before relying on it to secure valuable or heavy cargo. Apply pressure in multiple directions to ensure it's properly engaged with the E-track system.
Tools Required
- Drill with appropriate bits
- Screwdriver or socket set
- Carpenter's level
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or marker
- Safety glasses
- Work gloves
Frequently Asked Questions
The installation process involves positioning the E-track rail, ensuring it's level, marking and drilling mounting holes, securing with appropriate fasteners, and then sliding the load bars into the installed E-track. The process requires basic tools including a drill, level, measuring tape, and appropriate screws or bolts. Following manufacturer guidelines is essential for proper installation and maximum safety.
Yes, E-track load bars are excellent for securing motorcycles during transport. They provide stable anchor points for tie-down straps, helping to keep motorcycles upright and preventing movement. For motorcycle transport, consider using multiple bars positioned strategically around the bike, with soft straps to prevent damage to the motorcycle's finish. Heavy-duty or adjustable bars are typically recommended for motorcycle applications due to the concentrated weight and specific securing requirements.
Yes, installing E-track load bars is a DIY-friendly project for those with basic mechanical skills. The process requires measuring, drilling, and fastening, but doesn't demand specialized tools or expertise. Most manufacturers provide detailed installation instructions. For those uncertain about their abilities, consulting a professional or experienced person is recommended, especially since proper installation is critical for cargo safety during transport.
Many E-track load bars are indeed adjustable, with several offering different adjustment mechanisms:
- Telescoping bars can extend or contract to fit different trailer widths
- The E-track system itself allows for vertical positioning at any point along the track
- Spring-loaded models offer tension adjustments for different cargo types
- Some premium models feature quick-adjust mechanisms for rapid reconfiguration
This adjustability makes E-track systems extremely versatile for varying cargo needs and trailer configurations.
Yes, E-track load bars can be installed on concrete walls using appropriate concrete anchors. The installation process requires special considerations:
- Use a hammer drill with masonry bits to create holes in the concrete
- Install concrete anchors such as wedge anchors, sleeve anchors, or concrete screws
- Ensure the concrete is thick enough and in good condition to support the load
- Consider using a mounting plate to distribute the load over a larger area
When properly installed with appropriate hardware, E-track systems on concrete walls can provide exceptional strength and stability for securing cargo.