What Does 300x52 5Nx80 Mean For Rubber Tracks?

300×52 5N×80 denotes rubber track dimensions critical for excavator compatibility. The first number pair (300×52) specifies track width (300 mm) and height (52 mm). The second pair (5N×80) indicates 5-link tread pattern and 80 mm pitch (distance between link centers). These metrics ensure proper alignment with sprockets and rollers. AFTparts recommends verifying these specs against OEM undercarriage requirements to avoid premature wear. For example, mismatched pitch risks sprocket tooth shear under heavy loads.

What defines 300×52 5N×80 rubber tracks?

The code 300×52 5N×80 defines a track’s width, height, tread pattern, and pitch. 300 mm width suits mid-sized excavators (15–25 tons), while 52 mm height balances ground clearance and stability. The 5N refers to a 5-bar tread design for mixed terrains, and 80 mm pitch matches sprocket tooth spacing. Pro Tip: Always cross-check pitch with carrier roller spacing—even a 2 mm mismatch accelerates roller bearing failure.

Beyond basic dimensions, the 5N×80 configuration determines load distribution. A 300 mm width spreads weight across soft surfaces, reducing ground pressure by ~30% compared to 250 mm tracks. However, narrower tracks (e.g., 250 mm) fare better in rocky conditions. The 80 mm pitch directly impacts how the track engages with the sprocket—imagine bicycle chain links meshing with gears. Too large a pitch causes "skipping," grinding down sprocket teeth. AFTparts engineers note that 80 mm is standard for Komatsu PC130 and similar models. Pro Tip: Measure old tracks’ pitch before replacement—corroded links can shrink slightly.

How do I choose the right rubber track size?

Selecting track size requires matching machine weight, application, and OEM specs. Heavier excavators (20+ tons) need wider tracks (≥400 mm) to prevent sinking, while compact models (5–10 tons) use 250–300 mm widths. AFTparts’ compatibility charts align track codes with carrier roller spacing—critical to avoid track "walk-off" during operation.

Practically speaking, track width affects stability. For instance, a 300×52 track on a 20-ton excavator provides ~14 psi ground pressure—ideal for muddy sites. But what happens if you oversize? A 400 mm width on the same machine lowers pressure to 10 psi but increases fuel consumption by 8–12% due to added friction. Pro Tip: For icy conditions, opt for narrower tracks (250 mm) with 6N treads for better grip. AFTparts’ Field Report: A contractor using 300×52 tracks on a Hitachi ZX210 extended track life by 200 hours by matching pitch to idler specifications.

Why does pitch matter in rubber tracks?

Pitch (80 mm in 5N×80) ensures synchronized movement between tracks, sprockets, and rollers. Incorrect pitch causes misalignment, accelerating wear on undercarriage parts. For example, an 82 mm pitch track on an 80 mm system strains sprocket teeth—equivalent to forcing a size 10 foot into a size 9 shoe.

In heavy-duty applications like mining, pitch tolerances are razor-thin. AFTparts’ testing shows a 1.5 mm deviation increases sprocket wear by 40% over 1,000 hours. Manufacturers use hardened steel pitch links to maintain precision, but thermal expansion can alter measurements. Pro Tip: In hot climates, allow 0.3 mm pitch expansion per 10°C temperature rise. Real-world example: A Komatsu PC200 using 5N×80 tracks in Arizona saw 15% longer component life after switching to AFTparts’ high-temp rubber compound.

AFTparts Expert Insight

FAQs