How to Install Recessed D Rings on Trailer Floor

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Written By Koushik Tarafder

If you’re looking to add some extra security to your trailer, you might want to consider installing some recessed D-rings. These handy little devices can provide a great anchor point for tying down cargo and are relatively easy to install. Here’s an easy guide on how to do it.

A recessed D ring is installed in the trailer floor

Table of Contents

Why Are Recessed D-rings Used?

Recessed D-rings are often used in trailers because they offer a more secure anchor point than surface-mounted D-rings. This is because they’re flush with the floor, making it more difficult for your cargo to shift and become loose.

Load Capacity

When selecting recessed D-rings for your trailer, choose ones with a high enough load capacity for your needs. Otherwise, your trailer could be at risk of becoming unbalanced or tipping over.

For Example, The PF21 has a break strength of 5000 pounds and a working load limit of 1666 pounds. The PF22 and PF23 have the same break strength and working load limit as the PF21 but are slightly larger. The PF24 has a break strength of 6000 pounds and a working load limit of 2000.

Why is the Backing Plate Used With a Recessed D Ring?

An important part of the recessed D-ring is the backing plate. The backing plate reinforces the floor around the D-ring and distributes the load more evenly. This helps to prevent the floor from becoming damaged or breaking if a massive amount of force is applied to the D-ring.

How to Install Recessed D Rings on Trailer Floor

In order to install recessed D-rings on a trailer floor, you will need a marker pen, a cordless drill with a drill bit, and a carbon steel hole saw or circular saw. You will also need a D-Ring Recessed with Tie-Down Plate Kit.

Step 1 – Measure the Position

Before installing recessed d rings on a trailer floor, measuring the area where the rings will be placed is essential. There should be at least 7-8 inches of space around the ring to allow for proper load bearing. The area where the recessed D-ring will sit on the trailer floor should also be checked for any damage to the wood.

Measure the Position for install D-ring

Step 2 – Make a Hole

After measuring the area and choosing the right location, use a marker to mark where you want to put the ring. Then, use a hole saw to cut a hole that is the appropriate size for the ring. Substitute, you can use a jigsaw to cut the hole.

Make a Hole on trailer floor with hole saw

Note: If you are using a jigsaw, mark the outline of the ring on the wood before starting to cut.

Step 3 – Drill for Bolts

It’s time to place the ring on the trailer floor. Insert the recessed D-ring into the hole. Next, use a marker or pencil to mark where to install the bolt. Then, drill the pointed places (select the drill bit size according to the size of the bolt).

Drill for Bolts on trailer floor

Step 4 – Placed the Recessed D-Ring

After drilling the hole:

  1. Place the D-ring in the hole and set the backer plate under the trailer floor. set the backer plate under the trailer floor
  2. Attach the bolts with the nuts and tighten them.
  3. Ensure that the bolts and nuts are not loose.

Done!

Caution: I have seen many people use screws or large nails instead of bolts on the trailer frame, which is very dangerous. I would suggest only using bolts.

Does It Matter Which Way the D Rings Face Should Be?

Installing the recessed D-rings is important to face the right direction. The recessed d ring should be installed with the opening facing the inside of the trailer. This will allow you to quickly attach a rope or strap to the ring. It is also important to confirm that the recessed d ring is installed. This will ensure that the D-ring can adequately support the weight of your cargo or others.

Final Thoughts

Just follow the steps outlined in this quick guide, and you’ll have your recessed D-rings installed in no time. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with your friends! We would also love to hear about your experience installing recessed d rings on a trailer floor.

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