Excavator Tracks

Tracked excavators come in different models depending on the need. They are often referred to as “trackhoes” as an analogy of the backhoe. Diggers or excavators are used for a myriad of large projects outdoors. They can complete tasks such as:

• Digging of trenches, holes, foundations
• Forestry mulching
• Forestry work
• Material handling
• Brush cutting with hydraulic attachments
• General grading/landscaping
• Construction
• River dredging
• Mining, especially, but not only open-pit mining
• Drilling shafts for footings and rock blasting, by use of an auger or hydraulic drill attachment
• Driving piles, in conjunction with a pile driver
• Snow removal with snowplow and snowblower attachments

Excavator tracks are made of 5 main parts.

1. Sprocket
2. Front Idler
3. Top Roller
4. Lower Roller
5. Track Chain

When these parts all work together they allow the vehicle to travel on rough ground to complete its job. Here are some things to keep in mind about your excavator track.

• Track sag and track tension affect wear

One crucial factor you can control in undercarriage wear is

your track-chain adjustment. The right track sag for every conventional

crawler is two inches (± 1⁄4 inch). Tight tracks have been known to increase

wear as much as up to 50 percent.

• Track shoe width makes a difference

Select the narrowest track shoes possible — make sure they

give you the flotation you need. A wider than necessary shoe width increases

stress and load on idlers, rollers, and sprockets.

• Undercarriages can be affected by how the machine is operated

component wear

By using intelligent operating procedures, you can extend the life

of the undercarriage.

> Limit nonproductive, high-speed travel

> Limit reverse operation

• Use rock guards selectively

Full-length rock guards are not required under normal working conditions.

Keeping these things in mind can improve the longevity of your tracks, saving you money and time.If your track needs to be repaired or replaced you can easily find parts online or at your tractor dealer. If you know the make and model of your excavator, the type of track you have, and the size, you can easily purchase the track and repair it yourself without the need for a garage. Other ways to improve the longevity of your excavator track are in general maintenance.

• Keep the undercarriage clean

Dirt and debris can exacerbate the normal wear on your track and decrease your fuel economy.

• Routinely check for wear

It’s important to keep up-to-date on the condition of your track. Small breaks or parts that may have some wear can create big problems later on if they aren’t properly taken care of.

• While driving, use movements that are easy on your track

Things, like making wider turns, minimizing your time on hills, avoiding harsh conditions, and choosing the proper shoe width, can all reduce the wear on your track.

• Use the right track tension

If it is too loose or too tight you can wear your track down much quicker. Tight tracks increase the load weight and loose tracks may come off of the rollers.

• Always follow directions

Read the manual to make sure you are using the machine correctly. Talk to your dealer about how to take care of and use your excavator track.

Excavator tracks are used commonly to do a lot of heavy digging. The tracks they run on make the vehicle able to travel on bumpy or extra soft ground without sinking. It is important to maintain your tracks and keep them in perfect condition. If you follow this guide, you’re sure to improve the longevity of your excavator tracks.