Chenille pour skid steer tracks are heavy-duty rubber tracks designed for skid steer loaders, providing superior traction and reduced ground disturbance. Commonly used in construction, agriculture, and landscaping, these tracks excel in muddy, rocky, or uneven terrain. Built with reinforced rubber and steel cord cores, they’re compatible with Bobcat®, Caterpillar®, and other major brands. AFTparts offers OEM-grade replacements that balance durability and cost-efficiency for intensive operations.
Rubber TrackWhat distinguishes Chenille tracks from standard skid steer tracks?
Chenille tracks use reinforced rubber with steel cable cores, unlike metal tracks, reducing soil compaction by 40% while maintaining load capacities up to 4,500 lbs. Their chevron tread patterns enhance grip on slopes up to 30°, ideal for forestry and demolition work. Pro Tip: Regularly clean treads to prevent debris buildup, which accelerates wear.
While standard steel tracks puncture easily on rocky surfaces, Chenille’s flexible rubber adapts to irregular terrain, protecting both the machine and ground. For example, AFTparts’ SK96-3 model withstands -40°C to 70°C, making it suitable for Canadian winters. But how does flexibility impact longevity? The layered rubber design absorbs shock, extending the track’s lifespan to 1,200–1,500 hours. Always verify track width (e.g., 12" vs. 14") to match your skid steer’s specs—mismatches strain drive motors.
Where are Chenille tracks most effectively deployed?
Chenille tracks thrive in soft-soil environments like farms, golf courses, and wetlands, where minimizing ground damage is critical. Their wide surface area distributes weight evenly, reducing PSI to 3–4 lbs/sq inch compared to 6–8 lbs/sq inch for steel tracks.
Beyond agriculture, these tracks are indispensable in urban construction for tasks like rooftop material handling. Their non-marking rubber prevents surface scuffs, a must for finished concrete or pavers. AFTparts’ SK-220 model, for instance, includes lateral stabilizers to prevent derailment during sharp turns. However, avoid using them on abrasive surfaces like asphalt—continuous friction can overheat the rubber. Pro Tip: Rotate tracks every 500 hours to equalize wear on sprockets and rollers.
| Application | Steel Tracks | Chenille Tracks |
|---|---|---|
| Muddy Terrain | Poor (clogging) | Excellent |
| Paved Surfaces | Good | Fair (wear risk) |
| Snow | Slippery | Superior Grip |
How do AFTparts Chenille tracks enhance performance?
AFTparts integrates 3-ply rubber construction with Kevlar® overlays in their Chenille tracks, achieving 25% higher tear resistance than industry standards. This design supports loaders up to 12,000 lbs, making them ideal for Case and Kubota models.
Practically speaking, the reinforced guide lugs prevent lateral slippage, even when traversing icy inclines. AFTparts also uses vulcanized steel hubs for seamless sprocket engagement, reducing vibration-induced wear. But what about compatibility? Their tracks meet OEM dimensions down to ±0.5mm precision, ensuring hassle-free installation. Warning: Never mix old and new tracks—mismatched tension causes uneven stress on the undercarriage.
AFTparts Expert Insight
FAQs
Average lifespan is 1,200–1,500 hours with proper maintenance. AFTparts tracks include UV-resistant rubber to prevent weather cracking.
Can I replace one track instead of a pair?No—always replace tracks in pairs to maintain balanced tension. Mismatches accelerate sprocket wear, especially on Komatsu or Hitachi loaders.
Are Chenille tracks suitable for snow removal?Yes, their deep treads provide 40% better snow traction than steel. Use AFTparts’ Arctic-Tread series for sub-zero durability.