5 Things To Consider When Buying Caterpillar Rubber Tracks

Last Updated on April 18, 2023 by Admin

The construction, agricultural, and other industrial sectors require heavy machinery for multiple functions. For instance, a farm tractor can plow, dig, till, and plant various crops. A mini excavator with the right attachments can dig, drill, compact, grade, and prepare the site.

As versatile as these types of machinery may be, there are plenty of considerations when choosing the right one, including whether tires or tracks are better. Between the two, rubber tracks are increasing in popularity because of their mobility, versatility, and ease of use. 

Caterpillar skid steer tracks can maneuver in tight spaces quickly, making them cost and time-efficient. A piece of equipment with rubber tracks possesses extra traction, enabling it to work on all terrain while remaining stable and comfortable to the operator.  

This article will discuss the most important considerations in buying Caterpillar rubber tracks. 

What to consider when buying rubber tracks

Agricultural tractors, mining equipment, and heavy construction machines use rubber tracks for numerous benefits, most notably versatility. Rubber tracks are also used heavily in military equipment, pavers, and drilling machines, to name a few. Tracks can tackle jobs regardless of the terrain, making them ideal for excavators, diggers, and terrain loaders.

Buying Caterpillar rubber tracks requires a few considerations. And you won’t be able to optimize your investment without these crucial factors. 

1. Fitting or size

This is one of the most crucial considerations when buying Caterpillar skid steer tracks. You won’t be able to optimize this product if you don’t know your tracks’ measurement requirements. Using the wrong size can damage the undercarriage and shorten the product’s lifespan.  

Details about rubber caterpillar tracks are embedded on its sides, similar to a vehicle tire. Besides the size, you can also get the brand name, serial number, and manufacturing country. Likewise, the production year and factory number can be found in this section.  

On rare occasions when you can’t get this information, measure the width and pitch in millimeters and count the number of links. Afterward, multiply the pitch by the number of links if you want to know the tracks’ inner circumference.  

2. Application

Rubber tracks remain efficient regardless of track conditions. However, you must choose the appropriate pattern and type of Caterpillar rubber tracks, as they’re designed for specific purposes and certain requirements. For example, heavy-duty treads work best in rock-riddled project sites, while a zigzag track tread pattern is the best solution for muddy, slippering, snowy, and smoother surfaces. This consideration is important for project success and for preventing equipment-related accidents. 

Besides the terrain, it’s equally important to consider how heavily you will use the equipment. Some tracks have specific operating hours, but there are certain factors that can extend or reduce this. Simply put, getting the most from your Caterpillar rubber tracks requires considering the terrain and its intended use.  

3. Track construction and materials

Contrary to its name, Caterpillar rubber tracks are made from other materials that make them tough yet flexible and puncture-proof. There are also metal pieces between the underlayer and carcass, considered the belt’s most important section. 

The carcass handles the cargo and transmits the tension needed to move or lift the strap and absorb the impact that otherwise goes directly to the belt. A steel cord in the middle of the tread lugs and metal pieces provides good tension resistance and track rigidity. In addition, rubber tracks contain a textile layer between the steel cord and metal pieces for alignment. Besides the tough carcass and reliable steel belts, ensure that the rubber track is made from premium materials.    

4. Available options and their features

Besides size and tread patterns, you must examine the types of rubber tracks based on the heavy equipment in question before purchasing. For instance, Caterpillar rubber tracks can be used for compact loaders, which are named based on their patterns. 

• Heavy duty bar boasts high durability, excellent traction, and high operating hours.
• Heavy-duty blocks can be used on various surfaces with soft soil, hard rock, and similar conditions. 
• General duty zigzag is best when working with snow when grading and other residential construction projects, although they have fewer operating hours.

Rubber tracks for hydraulic excavators are also available, but they’re classified into heavy-duty, general-duty, and rubber pads. The last option may be convenient to some, as individual pads can be replaced instead of the entire length. General-duty Caterpillar rubber tracks can be used for multi-terrain loaders that don’t require long-hour operations. 

5. Operation and maintenance issues

Owning Caterpillar rubber tracks provides peace of mind because of the brand’s reputation. However, buyers still need to exercise caution in using and maintaining one. As this purchase requires high costs, it pays to find the correct operations and recommends maintenance tasks and schedules.   

The operator’s manual is a comprehensive information source, so take time to read and understand the do’s and don’ts and learn the best practices in operating the machine along the way. Find out how to adjust the rubber Caterpillar tracks according to the best tension according to your work requirements to help extend its lifespan. 

Preventive maintenance is also required for any heavy equipment. So, perform daily checks in between regular servicing schedules. Doing so can help you spot issues with your rubber tracks and make adjustments or repair requests as soon as possible and as needed.   

More importantly, purchase Caterpillar skid steer tracks must be exclusively purchased from reliable dealers to avail of warranties and after-sales support. Ask the dealer about financing options if you can’t buy the rubber tracks in cash.  

Conclusion

As a leader in the industry, you’d be hard-pressed not to purchase rubber tracks from a reliable company like Caterpillar. That said, choosing the ideal product can be challenging if you’re unclear on the project requirements and aligning them with the available options. The tips discussed above can help you become more confident in your choice so long as you find a reliable supplier.