The Ultimate Guide to Rubber Tracks: Choosing, Replacing, and Maintaining for Mini Excavators, Compact Excavators, and Skid Steers
In the construction and landscaping industries, efficiency and reliability are paramount. One often overlooked component that significantly impacts machine performance is the rubber track. Whether you operate a Mini Excavator like the Kubota KX057-4, a Compact Excavator such as the Hitachi ZX26U-5, or a Skid Steer like the Bobcat S650, your equipment’s productivity depends heavily on the condition and quality of its rubber tracks.
At MAQ TRACK, we understand the importance of durable, high-performance undercarriage parts. We are proud to be Europe’s trusted supplier of genuine rubber tracks and related components, with a wide range of top brands, competitive prices, and fast delivery throughout the continent.
What Are Rubber Tracks and Why Are They Crucial?
Rubber tracks, along with components like excavator track shoes and triple grouser track shoes, are endless belts made from reinforced rubber and steel cords, equipped with tread patterns optimized for traction and ground pressure distribution. They substitute traditional steel tracks in many applications, offering advantages such as:
- Gentle on delicate surfaces—ideal terrain for landscaping or urban construction.
- Reduced ground disturbance—less soil compaction.
- Quieter operation—improves working conditions.
- Enhanced stability and traction—especially on mud, snow, or uneven terrain.
Having high-quality rubber tracks ensures your machine operates efficiently while minimizing wear and tear on other undercarriage parts.
Recognizing When to Replace Rubber Tracks
Regular inspection of your rubber tracks is essential. Signs indicating it’s time for replacement include:
- Visible cracks, tears, or chunks missing.
- Excessive wear on the tread pattern.
- Loss of tension or frequent slipping.
- Decreased stability or difficulty steering.
- Uneven or unusual vibrations.
Preventative maintenance and early replacement help avoid costly downtime and damage to undercarriage components such as rollers, sprockets, and excavator track guides.
How to Choose the Right Rubber Track: Measuring and Specifications
Choosing the correct rubber track for your machine involves accurate measurements and understanding your equipment’s specifications:
- Measure the Internal Length
- Lay the existing track flat and measure from the inside of one pin to the inside of the opposite pin.
- Count Track Links and Measure Pitch
- Count the number of link plates.
- Measure the pitch—the distance between the centers of two consecutive pins.
- Determine Track Width
- Measure the existing track width or consult your machine’s manual.
- Identify Your Machine’s Make & Model
- For example, Kubota KX057-4, Hitachi ZX26U-5, Bobcat S650.
- Verify with Manufacturer Specifications or Your Supplier
- Cross-reference measurements to ensure compatibility.
- MAQ TRACK offers expert support to assist with selecting the right size.
Step-by-Step: Replacing Rubber Tracks
Replacing rubber tracks involves a systematic approach:
Tools Required:
- Track removal and fitting tools (or hydraulic press)
- Jack or lifting equipment
- Wrenches, screwdrivers
- New rubber track matching your machine’s specifications
Procedure:
- Preparation
- Park your machine on a flat, level surface.
- Engage the parking brake and disconnect the battery if required.
- Loosen Track Tension
- Use the machine’s tensioning system or manual adjustment to release tension.
- Lift the Machine
- Slightly lift the track off the ground using a jack to reduce tension.
- Remove Old Track
- Carefully detach the track links by removing pins with a track pin removal tool.
- Carefully slide the old track away from rollers and sprockets.
- Inspect Underlying Components
- Check rollers, sprockets, and tensioners for wear and damage.
- Replace worn parts as necessary.
- Install the New Track
- Carefully align the new rubber track over rollers and sprockets.
- Insert pins securely, ensuring proper fit.
- Adjust Track Tension
- Use the machine’s tensioning system to achieve optimal tension.
- Test the machine with a short run to verify correct installation.
Why Choose MAQ TRACK for Your Rubber Tracks?
At MAQ TRACK, we pride ourselves on providing genuine, high-quality rubber track solutions suited for a wide range of machinery, including the latest models of Mini and Compact Excavators, Skid Steers, and more. Our extensive inventory features top brands renowned for durability, performance, and reliability.
Benefits of shopping with MAQ TRACK:
- Wide selection of trusted brands, including OEM-quality rubber tracks compatible with Kubota, Hitachi, Bobcat, Kobelco, JCB, and many others.
- Expert advice to help you select the perfect track for your machine.
- Fast, reliable delivery across Europe, ensuring minimal downtime.
- Competitive pricing without compromising on quality.
- All products backed by full warranty and after-sales support.
Final Thoughts
Investing in premium rubber tracks is essential for maintaining your machine’s productivity, safety, and longevity. Proper maintenance and timely replacement can save you thousands in repair costs and operational delays.
Choose MAQ TRACK as your trusted partner for genuine undercarriage parts, including rubber tracks, rollers, sprockets, and more. Contact us today for expert support and fast delivery across Europe!
Ready to upgrade your machinery?
Visit our website or contact our team at MAQ TRACK — your reliable partner in Europe for durable Undercarriage Parts!