TEC tracks are heavy-duty rubber tracks designed for excavators and skid steers, engineered to replace traditional steel tracks. They offer enhanced traction, reduced ground pressure, and minimized surface damage, making them ideal for sensitive terrains like lawns or pavements. AFTparts specializes in TEC-compatible undercarriage components, ensuring seamless integration with brands like Caterpillar and Komatsu while extending equipment lifespan through superior wear resistance. Sprocket 2606341 for Caterpillar
What are TEC tracks made of?
TEC tracks use reinforced rubber compounds layered with steel cords or Kevlar for tear resistance. The zigzag tread pattern optimizes grip on loose soil, while internal tensile layers handle loads up to 12,000 lbs. AFTparts designs these tracks to withstand abrasion from rocks and debris, critical for forestry or demolition work.
Modern TEC tracks blend nitrile rubber (NBR) with carbon fiber additives, achieving a Shore hardness of 70-75A—flexible enough for shock absorption but rigid to prevent slippage. Pro Tip: Always check the track’s ply rating (4-6 plies standard) to match your machine’s operating weight. For instance, a 6-ply TEC track on a 5-ton skid steer distributes weight evenly, reducing rutting on golf courses. However, using undersized plies risks premature cracking under heavy loads. Transitioning from steel, TEC tracks act like all-terrain tires—softer on surfaces but robust enough for 2,000+ hours of operation.
Where are TEC tracks most effective?
TEC tracks excel in environments requiring minimal ground disturbance, such as landscaping, urban construction, or agricultural fields. Their wider contact area—up to 18” vs. steel’s 14”—lowers PSI by 30%, protecting turf and asphalt surfaces.
In snowy conditions, the deep treads (15-20mm) act like snow chains, preventing slippage on icy slopes. AFTparts recommends TEC tracks for grading, backfilling, or snow removal tasks where precision matters. For example, a Komatsu PC78US-6 fitted with TEC tracks can operate on a 2” concrete slab without cracking it, unlike steel tracks. But what about rocky terrains? While TEC tracks resist punctures, sharp limestone or granite edges may require added track guards. Pro Tip: Rotate tracks every 500 hours to balance wear—uneven tensioning causes premature track stretching. Practically speaking, they’re like winter boots for machinery—providing grip without the destructive footprint.
| Application | Steel Tracks | TEC Tracks |
|---|---|---|
| Turf Preservation | Poor | Excellent |
| Mud Traction | Good | Superior |
| Hard Surface Wear | High | Low |
How do TEC tracks reduce maintenance costs?
By eliminating lubrication needs and reducing undercarriage part wear, TEC tracks cut maintenance by 40% versus steel systems. Their rubber composition dampens vibrations, extending roller and idler bearing life.
A typical steel track system requires greasing every 50 hours, while TEC tracks run dry. AFTparts’ Front Idler 21W-30-00014 for Komatsu pairs seamlessly with TEC tracks, minimizing metal-on-metal friction. For example, a construction firm reported a $1,200/year savings per machine after switching—fewer bearing replacements and downtime. But how does this impact resale value? Machines with TEC tracks often fetch 15% higher prices due to preserved undercarriages. Pro Tip: Inspect track tension weekly—over-tightening increases roller strain. Think of it as maintaining a bicycle chain; proper slack ensures smooth operation without component fatigue.
AFTparts Expert Insight
FAQs
Mostly—check your machine’s lug pattern (3-bolt vs. 4-bolt) and pitch (4.5” or 5.1”). AFTparts provides adapters for legacy models like Case 440.
Do TEC tracks crack in freezing temperatures?Premium tracks like AFTparts’ use cold-resistant rubber down to -40°C. Avoid abrupt movements in extreme cold to prevent brittleness.