Securing E-Track inside a Cargo Trailer with Rivet Nuts?

[jbourbaki]

I'm looking to install E-Track in my cargo trailer that has 3/8" OSB sidewalls over steel structural members (1x1 16 gauge tube). It seems people often use self-drilling screws for this but I'm worried about them weakening under vibration and load over time.

I don't want to put bolts through to the exterior and so was thinking of using rivet nuts ("rivnuts" or "nutserts"), but I'd have to drill large access holes (~ 1/2 inch) in the OSB. If I did this, should I cover the holes with washers or let the E-track act as the washer?

Any thoughts or advice appreciated!

Thanks!

 

[dcg9381]

I haven't used rivnuts, I'd just let the e-track be the washer. If you can target the 1x1 steel tube, you can get a little extra grab to that.
I replaced everything with ply.. depending on what the e-track held up (or in), I'd likely just do 1/2 wood screws, pilot them in, screw them out and then just dab a little 3m marine sealant on 'em...

You do get some extra area on the bite of the rivnut, just not sure it's worth it.

 

[jbourbaki]

Thanks! I'm not too worried about targeting the steel. With a good magnet or stud finder I think I can find it OK.

I'm planning to hang a few heavy tools like a chainsaw so I probably do need to go into the steel tubing, but maybe self-tapping screws are good enough for this.

 

[dcg9381]

I'm planning to hang a few heavy tools like a chainsaw so I probably do need to go into the steel tubing, but maybe self-tapping screws are good enough for this.

If you drop the e-track all the way to the floor, being on the floor should support some of that load.

I've put some pretty good loads on this stuff, just screwing it into 1/2 ply... This "bed" ends up holding about 400 lbs give or take. Course, we don't use it when moving.




I've thrown everything in this thing.. Floor is 3/4" so that helps a bit:

 

[jbourbaki]

The bed example is helpful, thanks! Maybe I'm overthinking this ...