How to Use L-Tracks, How to Install Them, and What to Use Them For
Are you storing a heavier item in your truck bed or trailer and need a tie-down system that can accommodate a variety of uses? Not only that but are you also needing a flexible tiedown system that allows you to make layout changes down the road?
We have the perfect tiedown solution, and it's L-Tracks.
L-Track, also known as Logistic Track or Airline Track, is a versatile tie-down rail that showcases a low, sleek profile. The L-Track system consists of aluminum rails, fittings, and straps used to secure a range of cargo and personal items like motorcycles and ATVs. Each aluminum rail is mounted steel with small slots in them, but what makes them unique is you can use the rails anywhere to secure items quickly and easily.
They are the best solution for your pickup truck or trailer because the multiple round openings on the rails allow for quick attachment of fittings, allowing you to create a custom tie-down at any point!
Besides L-Tracks being adaptable to many situations, they will safely tie down your items without a scratch. These aluminum rails have a ton of benefits, and you'll feel secure knowing your items won't get shifted or damaged. Continue reading to learn how to use L-Tracks, how to install them, and what to use with these rails.
What is an L-Track System?
L-Tracks are high-quality aluminum rails that have a narrower profile than the E-Track. The lower profile makes it ideal to use for pickup trucks, vans, and other vehicles with smaller space. The rails' lengths range from 6" to 96" and come in 4 different styles to easily fit various vehicles.
Read the differences between E-Tracks and L-Tracks to understand what to use each system for.
If you'd like to learn more about E-Tracks, read our blog on what they are, how to install them, and what to use them for.
What Can I Use an L-Track For?
With their ability to change to any layout format, you can use L Tracks on trailers, pickup truck beds, vans, enclosed trailers, and utility trailers. You can especially use these for vehicles on the farm, construction sites, manufacturing sites, and more!
L-Track's narrow width makes it great to install in smaller spaces, and they have pre-drilled holes for the quickest and easiest installation. You can use these rails for hanging soft or light storage, holding down bikes, securing heavy loads, and even living a mobile lifestyle!
The Different Styles of L Tracks
At US Cargo Control, we carry four different types: the Standard L-Track, Aircraft Style L-Track, Angled L-Track, and Recessed L-Track.
Standard
The Standard L-Track is our most popular style of logistic tie-down track due to its endless versatility. With many color options and a durable finish to resist abrasions, you cannot go wrong with this choice. This line has a range of 6", 12", 24", 48", 72", and 96" so you can have an idea of what length you'll need.
Aircraft
The Aircraft Style features a squared profile made from high-quality grade 6351 that has stronger tensile strength than the standard L-Track. The square-edge design allows for a recessed installation that provides a smoother, flush surface.
This is an interesting L-Track because this style was made popular in the airline industry as a way to secure seats. Since the tie-down tracks are so versatile, this makes them an excellent choice for consumer tie-down applications!
Read the differences between the Airline and the Standard.
Angled
Angled L-Track features sloped edges, making it easier to roll items such as motorcycles, ATVs, utility carts, and other wheeled objects over the tie-down track. These rails are common in the transportation industry as a floor anchor system for wheelchairs and used for surface-mounted applications.
Please note that our angled L Track is for recreational and cargo control use only. It's not certified for official wheelchair restrain use in buses, vans, and other transport vehicles.
Recessed
Used for flush-mount installations, the Recessed L Track makes it ideal for applications where wheeled items are rolled over the track. Just like the Angled L-Track, this is designed for recreational and cargo control use only.
How to Install L-Track
With a bit of patience, a clear head, and a sharpie and measuring tape, installing L Tracks can be pretty simple. You'll have a successful job when you measure correctly and use the right tools to safely install the rails.
Watch below on how to install the rail on a truck bed, and become a natural at it!
What L Track Accessories Can I Use?
With the right accessories, you can do anything with L Tracks! These aluminum rails will give you the flexibility to secure anything which will work with a variety of tie-down accessories. We carry a large selection of L-Track Straps specifically designed to easily connect to logistic tie-down track rails and L-Track fittings.
We also carry single stud fittings and double stud fittings, fastener packs, and bolt packs. If you'd like a more sleek and finished look, use filler strips and end caps.
If you're not sure what fittings you'd need, watch our video below that explains the differences and uses.
