Though skid steers are some of the most versatile and durable pieces of excavation machinery, even they begin to wear down with time and stress. Their rubber tracks, in particular, can sustain a lot of damage over the course of their lifespan. This decreases their overall effectiveness on the job and can hinder performance in the future. Here are some of the telltale signs you should replace your skid steer tracks to ensure your equipment always yields optimal results.
Visible Track Damage
One of the first indicators that you may need new skid steer tracks is visible wearing along their exterior. With frequent exposure to rough terrain, even the strongest of rubber compounds begin to break down under stress. Worn-out rubber tracks often start drying out, giving them large cracks that weaken their structural integrity. So, if you notice this or any other types of damage to your tracks, it’s time for an upgrade.
Poor Sprocket Condition
The overall condition of your track’s sprockets can also be a feature to pay close attention to. As the gear-like components that rotate and propel your track forward, these parts are the first to show signs of decay. Deteriorated sprockets will develop pointed teeth due to wear and track slippage may occur more often. As such, your track itself will also need replacement to ensure a reliably functioning system.
Tension Issues
Another important sign you should replace your skid steer tracks to look out for is an excessive or insufficient amount of track tension. The proper amount of track tension is essential for keeping everything operating as intended. Too little can make it easier for the track to slip off the sprockets, while too much can increase wear and breakage during use. Since these rubber compounds tend to stretch over time, make sure that you’re monitoring their tension to determine whether they’re still operational.
It’s Time for an Upgrade
You could also just want to replace your skid steer tracks because you want to upgrade to something better. There are several different types of rubber tracks available, depending on the make and model of your machine. Additionally, newer and more durable products hit the market every year to improve upon the performance of these pieces of equipment. For this reason, keeping your options open is a great way to find the component you’ve needed all along.
