TECHNICAL INFORMATION
TRACK MAINTENANCE
The components of the under carriage are open to soil, sand, rock, water, chemicals and the
elements because of functional necessity. Regular maintenance of the undercarriage is
inevitable. Compensation though, is that the components are readily visible for inspection.
DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
Many items must be considered and engineered for a track drive unit. Some of them are:
1. Track length, width and pitch
2. Shoe width (no wider than necessary is best)
3. Track design required for machine gross weight and pull
4. Track tensioner design based on application and machine gross weight
PRECAUTIONS/HANDLING RECOMMENDATIONS
Installation and Repair
Only trained personnel should preform the mounting of rubber tracks. Incorrect assembly
may result in premature failure and/or damage to the machine.
Tension of Rubber Tracks
Improper tension may result in track alignment problems, detracking and is a major
contributor to premature failure. Tension should be inspected regularly and adjusted if
necessary. See maintenance section.
Loose tracks can allow excessive machine motion resulting in decreased
stability during operation.
Unfavorable Terrain Conditions
Rubber tracks should not be used in certain terrains, because damage can occur to the lug
sides of the tracks. Some common and unfavorable terrain conditions are: hard surface
roads, rocky fields, stump fields, large ruts or holes, scrap rebar, troughs, crowned ridges
and along walls or border stones. Inspect the work site before beginning operation and
remove any of these items when possible.
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Technical Information
