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Mounting cabinets

PostPosted: Sun Jun 11, 2017 9:10 am
by Ransom
I've got a 6x12' enclosed aluminum trailer and want to mount a couple of aluminum cabinets in it high on the wall. I assume this is generally done using self-tapping stainless steel screws through the back of the cabinet into the aluminum wall studs.

I was concerned about the dissimilar metals causing corrosion but from what I've read the stainless steel screws should be fine since it's not in the weather.

I'm also concerned that it might not be strong enough and fall right off the wall as I travel across the country. I don't plan to put anything especially heavy in the cabinets, but I want to make sure they are secure. Are self tapping screws sufficient for this?

Mounting cabinets

PostPosted: Sun Jun 11, 2017 9:36 am
by firemansd19
I did something similar to a trailer i built for my FD. When I screwed them to the wall. I used a piece of 1/2" flat bar that run the length of the cabinet as a "washer". I used 2 pcs per cabinet. These cabinets aren't goin anywhere.

This is the best pic I have. If u zoom in you can see it in the right side of the cabinet.

Image

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Re: Mounting cabinets

PostPosted: Sun Jun 11, 2017 9:50 am
by Ransom
Great idea using flat bar. I was going to use washers but this is worth serious consideration.

My bigger concern was with the screws pulling out of the aluminum wall studs.

Re: Mounting cabinets

PostPosted: Sun Jun 11, 2017 10:54 am
by Ransom
Here's my trailer.
IMG_20160908_172430758_HDR.jpg
IMG_20160908_172430758_HDR.jpg (122.5 KiB) Viewed 1662 times

Re: Mounting cabinets

PostPosted: Sun Jun 11, 2017 5:43 pm
by Ransom
I mounted the first and largest cabinet using stainless steel screws and fender washers. I put in 10 screws total, 5 on each stud. It feels very sturdy.

Re: Mounting cabinets

PostPosted: Sun Jun 11, 2017 6:01 pm
by Iconfabul8
Just a little warning to those who have steel studs, Don't use stainless screws!!!! They are not hardened, the steel stud will strip the screw threads. Makes a real mess. I know this cuz i tried :( :x
Might work OK if you pre threaded with a sheet metal screw first.

Re: Mounting cabinets

PostPosted: Sun Jun 11, 2017 7:49 pm
by Padilen
I don't think stainless are necessary. Most are made with steel screws.


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