There are many reasons why mini excavator tracks may come off during operation. For example, when mini excavator tracks are installed too loosely or too tightly, they are more likely to come off when turning. Rubber tracks may also de-track as a result of a worn undercarriage, poor operating conditions, or insufficient track spring tension, or a broken track spring. Or perhaps you simply needed to replace your tracks and had to take them off in order to do so. In any case, it is important to know how to get a track back on a mini excavator. Below, we will outline this process.
Obtain Assistance
The first step to getting a track back on a mini excavator is to seek assistance. Installing a track on a heavy piece of equipment can be dangerous when done alone. To reduce your risk of injury, make sure to enlist a co-worker or friend, and always wear safety goggles and gloves. If there isn’t anyone available to help, call a repair center for assistance or wait until someone is free.
Move the Machine To Level Ground
In order to properly install a rubber track back on a mini excavator, the ground must be level. If the track came off in an area where the ground is not level, you will need to move it to an area that is flatter. To do so, raise the side of the excavator with the track that came off and push the boom into the ground. You can then use the boom to essentially walk the machine to a more level area.
Remove the Grease Fitting
To remove the grease fitting, start by opening the panel above the track. Then, use a wrench to remove the top fitting, allowing grease to flow out and releasing tension in the tracks. The tension in the tracks should be greatly lessened or fully released.
Put the Track Back On
Using a pry bar, pull the track back over the wheel as your assistant guides it forward until it locks onto the wheel. Because rubber mini excavator tracks can weigh several hundred pounds, your assistant will likely need to help you with this task.
Re-Grease and Reattach
Since you removed the grease fitting and let all the grease flow out, you will need to re-grease the machine. To do so, hook up a grease gun to the fitting and pump grease back in. Doing so will increase the tension of the tracks. Reference your machine’s owner’s manual to determine the appropriate amount of tension. Then, all you need to do is reattach the panel, and your track should be good to go.
