Improving Traction on Steel Dovetail Trailers with Non-Skid Solutions

[MikePhua]

Why Steel Dovetails Require Traction Enhancement
Steel dovetail ramps are commonly found on equipment trailers used to haul skid steers, compact tractors, and other wheeled or tracked machinery. While steel offers durability and structural strength, it becomes dangerously slick when wet, muddy, or icy. Operators loading machines onto these ramps face a real risk of slippage, especially when the trailer is parked on uneven terrain or during inclement weather.
The dovetail’s angle and smooth surface amplify the hazard. Unlike wood or composite decks, steel lacks natural friction. This makes non-skid treatments essential—not just for safety, but for protecting equipment and ensuring efficient loading and unloading.
Terminology Notes

• Dovetail Ramp: A sloped rear section of a trailer designed to ease the transition from ground to deck.
  
• Non-Skid Coating: A surface treatment that increases friction and prevents slipping.
  
• Traction Mat: A removable or permanent surface layer designed to improve grip.
  
• Expanded Metal: A steel mesh welded to surfaces to provide texture and drainage.
  
• Anti-Slip Tape: Adhesive-backed strips embedded with grit for temporary traction.
  

Popular Non-Skid Solutions for Steel Surfaces
Several approaches are used to improve traction on steel dovetails:

• Epoxy-Based Non-Skid Coatings
  These are industrial-grade paints mixed with aggregate (e.g., aluminum oxide or silica) and applied in layers. They cure into a hard, textured surface that resists wear and moisture. Ideal for permanent installations.
  
• Welded Expanded Metal Sheets
  Steel mesh panels are welded directly onto the dovetail. The raised edges and open pattern allow mud and water to pass through while providing aggressive grip. Common in heavy-duty trailers.
  
• Bolt-On Traction Plates
  Pre-fabricated steel or aluminum plates with raised tread patterns can be bolted to the ramp. These are easier to replace than welded mesh and can be customized for different equipment types.
  
• Anti-Slip Tape or Strips
  For light-duty or temporary use, adhesive-backed grit tape can be applied. While not suitable for tracked machines, it works well for foot traffic or wheeled equipment.
  
• Rubberized Mats with Embedded Grit
  These mats can be rolled out and secured with fasteners or adhesives. They offer cushioning and grip but may wear quickly under steel tracks.
  

In one landscaping fleet in Pennsylvania, epoxy coatings with embedded quartz aggregate were applied to all steel ramps. After two seasons of use, the crew reported zero slip incidents and reduced loading time by 20%.
Installation Tips and Surface Preparation
For coatings and adhesives:

• Clean steel thoroughly with degreaser and wire brush
  
• Remove rust and scale with grinder or sandblaster
  
• Apply primer if recommended by manufacturer
  
• Mix coating components precisely and apply evenly
  
• Allow full cure time before use (typically 24–48 hours)
  

For welded or bolted solutions:

• Measure ramp dimensions and cut panels to fit
  
• Use grade 8 bolts or welds rated for dynamic loads
  
• Seal edges to prevent moisture intrusion
  
• Inspect welds and fasteners quarterly
  

In one equipment rental yard in Alberta, expanded metal was welded to all trailer dovetails. The added traction reduced machine loading accidents and improved customer satisfaction.
Maintenance and Longevity
To keep non-skid surfaces effective:

• Inspect for wear, peeling, or corrosion monthly
  
• Reapply coatings every 2–3 years depending on use
  
• Replace damaged mesh or plates promptly
  
• Clean mud and debris after each use
  
• Avoid using harsh chemicals that degrade adhesives or coatings
  

In one municipal fleet in Ohio, switching from anti-slip tape to epoxy coatings extended maintenance intervals from 6 months to 2 years and reduced labor costs.
Safety and Operational Benefits
Improved traction offers:

• Reduced risk of equipment slippage and rollover
  
• Safer footing for operators during loading
  
• Faster and more confident machine positioning
  
• Lower insurance claims and liability exposure
  
• Better performance in rain, snow, and mud
  

In one construction crew in Tennessee, a tracked skid steer slid off a bare steel ramp during a storm. After retrofitting the trailer with expanded metal and epoxy grit, the team avoided further incidents and improved morale.
Final Thoughts
Steel dovetail ramps offer strength, but without traction, they become a liability. Whether through coatings, welded mesh, or bolt-on plates, adding non-skid protection transforms a slick hazard into a reliable loading surface. In the rhythm of daily hauling, grip isn’t just a detail—it’s the difference between control and chaos.