Rubber Tracks Guide
Skid Steer Tracks & Mini Excavator Tracks - Complete Guide
A complete guide on skid steer tracks, compact track loader tracks, Multi-terrain loader tracks, and Mini Excavator Tracks.
For more information, please visit V Track Rollers and Guide Rails.
Skid Steer Tracks & Mini Excavator Tracks - Key Terminology
Understanding the common terms used within the rubber track industry is crucial for anyone involved in the compact equipment sector. Familiarity with these terms helps in navigating the nuances of the rubber track industry effectively.
Below is a list of key terms and their definitions. Use this list as a reference while going through this guide for clarification.
- Embed: Refers to the core metal piece molded inside the rubber track, often called the link.
- Pitch: The distance from the center of one embed to the center of the next. The total circumference of the track is the pitch multiplied by the number of embeds.
- Sprocket: The gear, usually powered by a hydraulic drive motor, that engages the embeds to propel the machine.
- Long Pitch Track: Embeds land on every other sprocket tooth, also known as “full pitch.”
- Short Pitch Track: Embeds land on every sprocket tooth, also known as “short pitch.”
- Tread Pattern: The design on the rubber track that makes contact with the ground, sometimes called lugs.
- Idler: The part of the machine applying pressure to keep the track properly tensioned.
- Roller: Supports the machine's weight on the track, distributing it evenly to lower ground pressure.
Guide Systems
Guide systems for both rubber and steel-tracked machines share a similar basic makeup. Both have sprockets to engage the track for movement, bottom rollers to support the machine’s weight, and an idler wheel. The idler wheel is typically attached to a hydraulic cylinder that moves to apply or relieve tension in the track. Generally, skid steer tracks have multiple idlers while mini excavator tracks have one.
While the components for skid steer and multi-terrain loader (MTL) tracks are the same whether made of steel or rubber, their designs can differ significantly.
Steel Track vs Rubber Track Undercarriage Guidance Systems
Steel track undercarriage guidance systems provide a constant flat surface for the rollers, similar to a railroad track system. However, the first rubber track systems could not adopt this same design due to limited industry knowledge at the time. The embeds in rubber tracks were designed differently, functioning to engage the sprocket for movement without creating a roadway like their steel counterparts.
Early rubber tracks, known as “conventional style,” describe how the machine’s rollers make contact with the track. Unlike steel tracks where the rollers run on the embeds, conventional rubber tracks had rollers directly contacting the rubber. This design incorporated a built-up rubber platform to support the machine's weight and create a flat surface for the rollers.
Another conventional roller design involves the roller running down the center of the embed, contacting only its base. The tall sides of the embed reduce the risk of derailment.
Types of Skid Steer, MTL & Mini Excavator Track Guide Systems
An alternative guide system is the Interchangeable Style, designed with advancements that allow the rollers to operate on the embed, similar to steel chains. Visually distinct, conventional systems have tall spikes, while interchangeable systems have shorter, flat embeds.
Interchangeable rubber tracks can be used on steel track undercarriages. However, converting a conventional system to an interchangeable one often outweighs the machine's value due to the modification costs. Most compact excavators now use interchangeable systems, offering flexibility to switch between rubber and steel tracks with minor modifications. This reduces the cost associated with changing tracks significantly.
Conventional Style Rubber Track Guidance Systems
Conventional rubber tracks are limited to track undercarriages specifically designed for them and cannot operate on steel tracks. Examples include:
- CT1 Roller Design: Roller does not contact the rubber track embed.
- CT2 Roller Design: Roller contacts the built-up rubber platform.
- CT3 Roller Design: Roller contacts built-up metal embed.
Interchangeable Style Rubber Track Guidance Systems
Interchangeable rubber tracks offer flexibility, operating on undercarriages designed for steel tracks. This ability has spurred growth in the compact equipment market by allowing the same model machine to use both track types. Examples include:
- IT 1 Roller Design
- IT 2 Roller Design: Roller contacts built-up metal embed.
- IT 3 Roller Design: Roller contacts built-up metal embed.
Handling & Operation Do’s and Don’ts for Users
- Maintain the correct track tension as specified by the vehicle operating manual or dealer.
- Regularly check the undercarriage components (sprocket, rollers, idler) for wear and damage.
- Limit vehicle use on sharp, rocky surfaces, gravel, and fields with crop stubble.
- Avoid fast, sharp, or side-slope turns.
- Prevent large foreign objects from getting entangled in the undercarriage.
- Do not drive with track sidewall edges pressing against hard walls, curbs, or objects.
- Clean oil or similar substances off the tracks immediately.
- Shelter the vehicle from rain and direct sunlight during extended storage to prevent oxidation.
Types of Rubber Track Damage
Rubber tracks can suffer various types of damage under different operating conditions. Some damage types may not affect the track's continued use, while others might necessitate replacement. This guide shows examples of potential damage and recommended preventative steps to ensure the longevity of rubber tracks.
Types of Rubber Track Damage During Operation
Example 1: Severed Steel Cords
- Damage: Embedded steel cords are cut off.
- Result: Replacement is required.
Causes of Damage:
- Excessive track tension exceeding the breaking strength of steel cords.
- Track derailment causing idler or sprocket to ride on embed projections, leading to catastrophic failure.
Prevention:
- Regularly check and maintain recommended track tension.
- Avoid quick turns on bumpy and rocky fields.
- Prevent debris from clogging the track and undercarriage.
- Avoid driving over sharp objects and making turns on such terrains.
Example 2: Abrasion of Embedded Metal Pieces
- Damage: Embedded links gradually abraded over time.
- Result: Replacement required when embed width becomes 67% of the original.
Cause of Damage:
Abrasion from contact with track rollers, sprocket, and idler gears. Factors accelerating abrasion:
- Improper sprocket configuration.
- Extraordinarily heavy loads.
- Sandy soil conditions.
- Over-tensioning of the track.
- Excessive reverse operation of the machine.
Prevention:
Operate under normal conditions to avoid abnormal abrasion. Check abrasion levels when performing heavy towing and dozing, and in sandy conditions.
Example 3: Expulsion of Embed Due to External Forces
- Damage: Outer forces cause embedded metals to expulse from the rubber track.
- Result: Partial separation requires complete track replacement.
Causes of Damage:
- Track derailment causing embed separation when stuck between guide frame or undercarriage frame.
- Abnormally abraded sprockets leading to premature embed expulsion.
Prevention:
- Maintain recommended tension level.
- Avoid quick turns on rocky terrain.
- Replace excessively abraded sprockets immediately.
Example 4: Separation of Embeds Due to Corrosion
- Damage: Corroded embeds deteriorate adhesion to rubber body, leading to separation.
- Result: Complete track replacement required for partial separation.
Cause of Damage:
Operating conditions causing embed corrosion and separation:
- Salty environments.
- Acidic or alkali terrains.
- Compost spread grounds.
Prevention:
Wash and properly store tracks used under corrosive conditions. Replace rubber tracks when embed projections become loose, though immediate replacement is not mandatory.
Example 5: Cut on Lug Side of Rubber
- Damage: Cuts caused by driving over sharp projections or stones.
- Result: Immediate repair needed if cuts reach embedded steel cords.
Cause of Damage:
Concentrated forces on lug side rubber create cuts. Turning on projections increases damage risk. Cuts reaching steel cords can cause breakage due to corrosion.
Prevention:
- Drive carefully on construction, demolition sites, rocky paths, concrete ridges, and stump-covered areas.
- Avoid high-speed drive, quick turns, and overloading in demanding terrains.
Example 6: Cut on Lug Side of Rubber
- Damage: Small cracks around the lug side rubber due to operation fatigue.
- Result: Immediate track replacement if cracks expose steel cords.
Cause of Damage:
Stress during operation causes fatigue, leading to cracks. Damaged tracks further deteriorate over time.
Prevention:
Rubber tracks have special compounds to prevent fatigue cracking. However, external lug side damage increases cracking risk. Follow these maintenance tips:
- Avoid exposing stored tracks to sunlight, rain, and snow.
- Store tracks in well-ventilated spaces.
- Use tracks monthly.
Types of Rubber Track Damage Due to Improper Tension
Proper tension is vital for the longevity of rubber tracks. Excessive tension stresses steel cords to the point of failure, while maintaining proper tension extends track life.
The provided illustration shows how improper tension causes steel cords to fail and tracks to derail. Too many tracks fail prematurely due to being over-tensioned.
Continuous Steel Cord Technology
Continuous steel cord tracks mitigate joint failures. While these tracks reduce the risk of over-tensioning, they can still fail due to high tension, misuse, harsh environments, and travel speeds.
Equipment owners and service personnel must educate users on proper machine care to maximize track lifespan. Proper tension and undercarriage maintenance are crucial. For example, excessive sprocket wear can prematurely damage track embeds.
Rubber Track and Undercarriage: Wear and Care Guide
Undercarriage costs account for about 20% of a machine's purchase price and nearly 50% of maintenance expenses. Therefore, ITR components are designed for optimal wear life, reducing maintenance costs.
Maintaining undercarriage systems with certified ITR parts helps prolong component lifespan. An ITR Certified Support Advisor can assist in managing undercarriage costs.
This guide provides insight into causes of wear and offers advice on managing machines for maximum productivity. Regular inspection of wear patterns helps in making informed maintenance decisions.
However, normal wear is inevitable. Good undercarriage maintenance and operating techniques can reduce wear rates.
Guidelines For Maintaining Rubber Tracks
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect undercarriage components like rollers, idler, and sprockets for wear and replace them promptly.
- Proper Track Tension: Follow manufacturer’s specifications for track tension to avoid damage and ensure safety.
- Avoid Sharp Turns: Sharp or fast turns reduce track lifespan. Make gradual turns to prolong track life.
- Limit Hazardous Surface Operations: Avoid abrasive surfaces to prevent damage to tracks.
- Clean Tracks Regularly: Regular cleaning prevents debris buildup and subsequent performance degradation. Immediately clean any oil or similar substances off the tracks.
- Store Equipment Properly: Protect equipment from elements like rain and sun in a cool, dry place to prevent oxidization.
- Adopt Proper Driving Techniques: Avoid stressing the track sidewall edges against objects, and make gradual turns.
- Prevent Large Objects from Lodging into Tracks: Ensure foreign objects do not get stuck in the track during operation to prevent damage and downtime.
Undercarriage Maintenance
Below are maintenance practices that help reduce wear:
- Maintain Proper Track Tension or Sag:
- Smaller rubber track machines should have about 3/4” to 1” sag.
- Larger machines may require up to 2” sag.
Track Tension and Track Sag
Correct track tension or sag is crucial for reducing undercarriage wear. Smaller mini excavators require 1” sag (+ or - 1/4”). Tight tracks increase wear, demanding more horsepower and fuel.
Follow these steps to adjust track tension:
- Slowly move the machine forward to stop.
- Center a track link over the carrier roller.
- Place a straight edge over the track from the carrier roller to the idler wheel.
- Measure sag at the lowest point.
Track width affects performance. Choose the narrowest tracks for your machine. OEM tracks optimize machine performance. Wider tracks on hard surfaces increase stress and wear on the system, leading to faster component degradation.
Slopes
Working uphill shifts weight to the rear, increasing load on rear rollers, track link, and sprocket teeth, causing wear. Reversing downhill still applies some load to the undercarriage.
Working downhill shifts weight to the front, affecting track links, roller, and idler tread surface. Extra load on these components expedites wear. Reversing uphill aggravates track wear due to increased force between track link and sprocket teeth.
Operating on side hills shifts weight to the downhill side, causing more wear on roller flanges, track tread, and link sides. Change working direction to balance wear between undercarriage sides.
Working on Crowns and Depressions
Navigating crowns places weight on inner track link ends, accelerating wear on inner rollers, links, and sprocket contact areas. Frequent operation on crowns speeds up inner track wear.
In depressions, weight shifts to outer track link ends. Outer rollers, links, and sprocket areas bear the load, accelerating outer track wear.
Alignment Checks
Check front idler and track frame alignment to prevent accelerated wear. Look for wear patterns on front idlers, carrier rollers, and bottom rollers. Follow the equipment’s manual for alignment adjustments.
Continuous Rubber Track Installation and Removal Guide
For Skid Steer Tracks, Mini Excavator Tracks and Multi Terrain Loader Tracked Equipment
This guide provides procedures for removing and installing rubber tracks on sprocket-driven machines. Tracks are wear items that require eventual replacement. Follow these steps to replace or reinstall derailed tracks using common tools.
Note that tension device locations may vary between models. Consult your machine's manual for specific configurations. Only remove one track at a time to reference the assembled track if needed.
Required Equipment:
- (1) Rubber Track
- (1) Ratchet/Wrench Set (Sizes based on machine version)
- (1) Socket Extension
- (1) Allen Wrench Set
- (1) Manual Grease Gun
- (1) Tape Measure or Ruler
SKID STEER & MINI EX TRACK REMOVAL
- Raise the machine about 6 inches off the ground for track removal and installation. Use foot and outriggers, or a blade and backhoe arm for lifting.
CAUTION: Support the machine with proper blocks or jack stands approved for its weight in case of hydraulic failure. Never position yourself under the machine during this procedure.
Track tension is provided by pumping grease into the tension assembly. To loosen the track for removal, relieve grease from the tension device.
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