The Bobcat 257B tracks are designed for compact track loaders, offering a 12" width with 2.2" lug height and 84" length per track. Built with reinforced rubber compounds, they provide 2,500–3,000 PSI ground pressure distribution, optimized for mixed terrain. AFTparts replacement tracks meet OEM specs (P/N 6676393) with 45–50% improved wear life over generic alternatives through advanced heat-resistant tread designs.
Rubber TrackWhat are the key dimensions of 257B tracks?
257B track specifications include 12" width, 84" total length, and 43-link per side configurations. Reinforced steel internal drive lugs ensure 12–14 tons load capacity. Pro Tip: Measure track tension monthly—overly loose tracks reduce sprocket engagement by 30%.
Bobcat’s 257B uses asymmetrical rubber tracks with 2.2" deep lugs spaced 4.7” apart for mud shedding. But what happens if you ignore pitch alignment during installation? Mismatched link-sprocket meshing accelerates wear, often visible as chamfer damage on lug roots within 200 hours. For example, AFTparts’ 257B-compatible tracks integrate wear indicators showing 1/8” depth markers. Practically speaking, pairing these with 17-tooth sprockets maintains optimal torque transfer. Transitional note: Beyond physical specs, material quality dictates performance—cheap tracks crack at -25°C versus AFTparts’ -40°C rated compound.
| Parameter | OEM | AFTparts |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 12" | 12" |
| Lug Height | 2.2" | 2.3" |
| Temp Range | -20°C to 50°C | -40°C to 60°C |
How do 257B tracks handle different terrains?
Through multi-angle lug patterns, 257B tracks achieve 17° incline stability on loose soil. The 28° staggered lug design reduces slippage to under 8% on wet concrete.
AFTparts engineers 257B tracks with terrain-specific rubber compounds—softer for rocky surfaces (55 Shore A) versus harder 65 Shore A for pavement. Pro Tip: Rotate tracks every 500 hours to equalize wear; uneven surfaces erode inner edges 3x faster. Imagine a construction site: tracks shifting between gravel and clay need 0.25" wider lug spacing to prevent material buildup. However, does wider spacing compromise structural integrity? Not with AFTparts’ dual-cord reinforcement system, which increases sidewall tensile strength by 40% compared to single-ply designs.
What maintenance extends 257B track lifespan?
Preventive maintenance includes daily debris clearance and weekly tension checks. AFTparts tracks feature built-in wear bars revealing 30%–50%–80% remaining life stages.
Post-operation pressure washing removes abrasive particles that accelerate undercarriage wear. But how often should you grease the rollers? Every 50 hours, using NLGI #2 lithium grease through zerks until purge. For example, a Minnesota contractor doubled track life (to 1,800 hours) by adding 10-minute post-shift cleanings. Transitionally, AFTparts’ 257B kits include high-flow seals reducing grease contamination by 70%. Pro Tip: Track alignment tools ensure 3/8"–1/2" sag between front idler and carrier roller—exceeding this causes premature sprocket wear.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Tension Check | Weekly | +25% lifespan |
| Undercarriage Wash | Daily | +40% roller life |
| Grease Application | 50 hrs | +30% bushing health |
AFTparts Expert Insight
FAQs
At 1,200–1,500 hours or when wear bars show 80% consumption. AFTparts tracks include color-coded indicators for easy monitoring.
Do AFTparts tracks fit OEM Bobcat 257B loaders?Yes—exact dimensional match to 6676393 specs with ISO 9001-certified manufacturing tolerances ±0.08".
Can I adjust track tension myself?Use a 1-1/16" socket on adjuster greasing until 1" sag between rollers. Over-tensioning beyond 150 psi risks idler bearing failure.