Description
Traxstech Aluminum Backer Plates: Added Strength for Secure Track Installation
Traxstech’s aluminum backer plates provide additional reinforcement when installing mounting tracks on boats with thin gunwales, flex in the mounting surface, or when running heavy-duty equipment such as downriggers, vertical rod holders, planer masts, or other high‑load accessories. By spreading the load across a wider surface area, backer plates help reduce flex, minimize long‑term stress, and create a stronger, more stable installation—especially on aluminum boats.
Backer plates are recommended for our 6", 12", 18", and 24" mounting tracks, and may also be used with longer tracks when additional support is desired. Tracks 36" and longer typically distribute load well on their own, but customers who prefer added reinforcement should use our 3" backer plates for these lengths.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. How many backer plates/what size do I need?
A. If you are installing a 6", 12", 18", 24" or 36" track, you need to order just one backing plate in the corresponding size. If you are installing anything over 36" and wish to use a backing plate as well, you must order the 3" backing plate - (Part: #3-BP). The other size backing plates will not line up properly with the mounting holes on your tracks.
Q. How thick and wide are your Traxstech backer plates?
A. They’re approximately 1/8" thick, 3" wide, and the length varies by the size you order — available in 3", 6", 12", 18", 24", and 36".
Q. Do your backer plates come with installation hardware to install them?
A. They are sold as stand‑alone aluminum reinforcement plates designed to be paired with whatever hardware comes with your track.
Q. Do I need to use a backer plate when installing Traxstech track?
A. In many cases, a backer plate is recommended — but it isn’t always required. Whether you need one depends on your boat’s construction, how you plan to mount the track, and the type of equipment you’ll be using.
When a Backer Plate Is Recommended
You should use a backer plate if your boat has:
-
Thin aluminum gunwales
-
Flex or vibration in the mounting surface
-
Heavy-duty gear such as downriggers, vertical rod holders, planer masts
-
Limited underside access where reinforcement is beneficial
-
Long track runs where load distribution matters
A backer plate helps spread the load, reduce flex, and protect the gunwale from long-term stress — especially on aluminum boats.
When a Backer Plate Is Not Required
You typically don’t need a backer plate if:
-
You’re installing on a fiberglass boat using Traxstech’s self-tapping screw + 5200 install kit
-
You have full underside access and are through-bolting with washers and locknuts
-
Your gunwale is thick, reinforced, or structurally strong
Through-bolting with proper hardware is always the strongest installation method, and many fiberglass setups do not require additional reinforcement.
Traxstech’s Recommendation
-
Aluminum boats: Backer plates are strongly recommended unless the gunwale is exceptionally thick.
-
Fiberglass boats: Usually not needed when installed with the correct hardware.
-
Heavy gear setups: Always beneficial for added strength and stability.
| Mounting Track | Backer Plates Needed |
|---|---|
| 6” (MT-6 or BMT-6) | One (1) 6" Plate (#6-BP) |
| 12” (MT-12 or BMT-12) | One (1) 12" Plate (#12-BP) |
| 18” (MT-18 or BMT-18) | One (1) 18" Plate (#18-BP) |
| 24” (MT-24 or BMT-24) | One (1) 24" Plate (#24-BP) |
| 36” (MT-36 or BMT-36) | One (1) 36" Plate (#36-BP) or Five (5) 3" plates (#3-BP) *recommended |
| 48” (MT-48 or BMT-48) | Five (5) 3" Plates (#3-BP) |
| 60” (MT-60 or BMT-60) | Seven (7) 3" Plates (#3-BP) |
| 72” (MT-72 or BMT-72) | Eight (8) 3" Plates (#3-BP) |
