The John Sterling brand, now part of Knape & Vogt, offers a range of shelving and organization solutions for residential and commercial applications. The FAST-MOUNT Hang Trak system is a key product line, designed to provide a heavy-duty, adjustable shelving framework for garages, basements, and other storage areas. This article details the features, specifications, and installation considerations for John Sterling Hang Trak systems, based on available documentation.
Overview of Hang Trak Systems
John Sterling Hang Trak systems are designed for ease of installation and flexibility in shelving configuration. The core component is the horizontal Hang-Trak rail, which allows for vertical adjustment of shelving standards. The system is intended to support heavy loads, with a capacity of 200 lbs. per screw when properly installed. The brand offers various Hang Trak options, including those designated as “Dual-Trak,” and in different lengths and finishes. Available finishes include white, black, bronze, and galvanized steel. Specific models available include 80" Dual-Trak, 38" White Hang-Trak, and 26" White Hang-Trak.
Product Specifications
The available documentation provides limited detailed specifications beyond the load capacity and general dimensions. Key specifications include:
- Brand: John Sterling
- Family: Heavy-Duty
- Vertical Adjustability: 1"
- Load Capacity: 200 lbs. per screw (when properly installed)
- Materials: Galvanized steel construction.
- Available Lengths: 26", 38", 40", 80"
The documentation does not specify the gauge of the steel used in construction, the precise dimensions of the tracks, or the weight of the individual components.
Installation Considerations
Installation of the Hang Trak system is designed to be straightforward, utilizing the horizontal Hang-Trak rail to ensure level and aligned vertical standards. A video demonstrating shelving installation using Pilasater, Single-Track, and Dual-Track systems is available online. The documentation does not provide a step-by-step installation guide within the provided source material, but references the video as a resource. Hardware for installation is not included with the Hang Trak system and must be purchased separately. Proper installation is critical to achieving the stated 200 lbs. per screw load capacity.
Product Range and Variations
John Sterling offers a diverse range of Hang Trak products, categorized by length, finish, and track configuration. The following models are specifically listed in the documentation:
- John Sterling 38" White Hang-Trak
- John Sterling 26" White Hang-Trak
- John Sterling Dual-Trak 80" Black Hang-Trak
- John Sterling Dual-Trak 80" Bronze Hang-Trak
- John Sterling FAST-MOUNT 80" Galvanized Wall Mount Hang Trak
- John Sterling Dual-Trak 80" Platinum Hang-Trak
- John Sterling Dual-Trak 2-1/2" White Standard & Hang-Trak Screws - 14 Pack
- John Sterling Dual-Trak 40" Bronze Hang-Trak
The “Dual-Trak” designation likely refers to a system that allows for the mounting of standards on both sides of the track, increasing storage capacity. The availability of dedicated screws for the Dual-Trak system suggests a specific mounting requirement.
Brand History and Affiliation
The John Sterling brand was founded in 1931 in Richmond, Illinois. Initially, the brand focused on providing consumers with improved organization solutions for closets, bathrooms, garages, and offices. In the present day, John Sterling operates as part of the Knape & Vogt family of brands. Knape & Vogt also markets products under the KV, KV GSlide, KV Tru-Trac, KV DuriSlide, HyLoft, Shelf-Made, and Closet Culture brands. John Sterling products are distributed through hardware chains and major home centers.
Additional Product Lines
Beyond the Hang Trak system, John Sterling offers a broader portfolio of products, including:
- Closet Hardware
- Multipurpose fixed and adjustable shelving
- Window security hardware
- Sliding door hardware
The documentation indicates that Knape & Vogt also produces products in the following categories:
- Barn Door Hardware
- Drawer Slides
- Drawer Box Systems
- Ergonomic Solutions
- Fittings
- Garage Organization
- Hinge Systems
- Kitchen & Bath
- Specialty Hardware
Available Resources
Knape & Vogt provides several resources for customers and distributors, including:
- Videos: Shelving installation videos are available on the Knape & Vogt YouTube channel.
- Catalogs: A KV Product Guide is available.
- Distributor Locator: A tool to find authorized distributors.
- Contact Information: For inquiries and support.
- Careers: Information on employment opportunities.
- Corporate Information: Details about the company’s mission, leadership, and policies.
Compatibility and Accessories
The documentation does not provide specific details regarding compatibility with shelving standards or other accessories. However, the mention of “FAST-MOUNT” suggests a dedicated line of shelving components designed for use with the Hang Trak system. The availability of dedicated screws for the Dual-Trak system indicates that specific hardware may be required for optimal performance.
Safety Considerations
While the documentation states a load capacity of 200 lbs. per screw, it emphasizes the importance of “proper installation.” The documentation does not provide specific safety guidelines or warnings beyond this statement. Users should exercise caution when installing and loading shelves, ensuring that the Hang Trak system is securely mounted to wall studs or other appropriate structural supports.
Conclusion
The John Sterling Hang Trak system offers a heavy-duty, adjustable shelving solution for a variety of storage applications. The system’s key features include its ease of installation, vertical adjustability, and high load capacity. The brand’s affiliation with Knape & Vogt provides access to a broader range of organizational products and support resources. While the provided documentation lacks detailed specifications and installation instructions, it offers a foundational understanding of the Hang Trak system’s capabilities and product range.