OPERATION IS A FACTOR

TALKING ABOUT DAMAGE TO CTL TRACKS

Work applications always make a difference in track life but let’s talk about the operation.

The operator plays an important role. How aggressive is your operator when counter rotating the machine? Does the operator use three point turns to avoid cuts in the rubber tracks when driving over abrasive or sharp materials. Always avoid unneeded spinning of the tracks. If the track has limited contact to a surefooted surface the spinning is just wearing out the track. The hotshot operator can cost you a lot of money prematurely wearing out the rubber tracks.

Improper track tension causes rapid wear of your sprockets and track guides. Follow your machine track tension guidelines. To lose or to tight causes problems and accelerate wear.

Inspection and clean out. Inspecting the rubber tracks and track parts daily can save you a lot of money. Are the rollers and idlers functioning properly? Is the sprocket riding in the track guide properly? Rubber tracks packed with mud around them don’t ride the undercarriage parts properly. The tension can also cause unwanted wear and de-tracking.

Operation on rough harsh terrain can cause cuts or chunking of the rubber tracks. These cuts can expose the steel cables inside the tracks. The moisture can cause damage and premature wear or failure.

Using the right size buckets. The bucket on the machine should be at a minimum the same width as the tracks. It is better if the bucket is wider than the tracks. Riding tracks over uneven ground for an extended time can cause cracking and breakdown of the rubber track on the outside where the track guide ends inside the track.

Riding over curbs and uneven ground. The track guide does not extend to the end of the track. If the track continuously is bent up or down and the track guide starts to penetrate the track from the inside, you will see cracking and breakdown of the outside of the tracks.

Riding continuously in sand and gravel can wear the rubber off the track guides. The track can still be used but the ride will become increasingly worst over time. The vibration in the ride can become very uncomfortable.

TractionsourceUSA.com – Dave Langefels