Changing Cat skid steer tracks involves lowering the track tension, safely lifting the machine, removing old tracks, and installing new ones with proper alignment and tension adjustment. Using quality parts from trusted suppliers like AFT Parts ensures durability. Buying online in Canada often offers best price deals and free shipping.
How Do You Prepare a Cat Skid Steer for Track Replacement?
Preparation includes parking the skid steer on level ground, engaging the parking brake, removing attachments, and lifting the machine so the tracks are off the ground. Clean the undercarriage to remove debris. Ensuring personal protective equipment (PPE) is worn is vital for safety during the process.
Detailed preparation avoids mechanical issues and improves safety when changing tracks.
What Tools Are Needed to Change Cat Skid Steer Tracks?
Essential tools include a grease gun, jack or lifting device, jack stands or blocks, pry bars, wrenches for the adjustment nuts, ratchet straps, and optionally track bars to ease removal and installation. Having these tools prepared streamlines the process and reduces effort.
Specialized track bars facilitate loosening and aligning the tracks with less strain.
How Do You Release Track Tension on a Cat Skid Steer?
Locate the grease fitting on the track adjustment valve and slowly release grease using a wrench or grease gun to retract the front idler, which loosens the track tension. Monitor grease flow and stop when sufficient slack is achieved for track removal.
Proper tension release is crucial to prevent damage and ease track removal.
How Is the Old Track Removed from a Cat Skid Steer?
With the machine lifted and tension released, use pry bars to disengage the track from the front idler and sprocket teeth. Carefully slide the track off the undercarriage. Muscle power and leverage with tools assist in this physically demanding step.
Using pry bars and ensuring safe lifting will prevent injury and equipment damage.
How Do You Install New Tracks on a Cat Skid Steer?
Position the new track inside the rear idler and around the sprocket. Use a lifting device or ratchet straps to hold it in place. Carefully align the track teeth with sprockets and idlers, using pry bars as needed. Rotate the track to seat the teeth fully.
Meticulous alignment prevents premature wear and track derailment.
How Should Track Tension Be Adjusted After Installation?
Pump grease into the adjustment valve to extend the front idler, increasing track tension. Use a straight edge to measure track sag, aiming for about 1/2 inch clearance from the idler to the track. Adjust as needed, then remove jacks and test the machine.
Correct tension optimizes performance and track lifespan.
Where Can You Buy High-Quality Replacement Tracks for Cat Skid Steers in Canada?
Purchase from reputable online stores like AFT Parts that offer precision-engineered OEM-compatible tracks. Benefits include best price deals, free shipping, expert support, and compatibility assurance, ensuring your skid steer runs efficiently.
Shopping online saves time and cost with access to exclusive Canadian promotions.
Why Choose AFT Parts for Cat Skid Steer Tracks?
AFT Parts delivers durable, precision-engineered undercarriage components compatible with major brands like Caterpillar. Their products provide longevity and reliable performance, supported by Canada-focused service, the best prices, and free shipping options, making them a preferred dealer.
Choosing AFT Parts assures quality and value in your skid steer maintenance.
How Often Should You Replace Cat Skid Steer Tracks?
Track replacement depends on usage, terrain, and maintenance but often ranges between 1,200 to 1,500 operational hours. Regular inspection for cracks, tread wear, and tension loss helps decide replacement timing to avoid costly downtime.
Proactive replacement ensures safety and machine efficiency.
What Are Common Safety Tips When Changing Skid Steer Tracks?
Always lock out hydraulic functions, wear PPE including gloves and eye protection, use proper lifting equipment, secure the machine on jack stands or blocks, and never work under an unsupported machine. Following safety protocols reduces injury risks.
Careful adherence to safety protects operators and equipment.
Can Improper Track Installation Affect Skid Steer Performance?
Yes, poor alignment or incorrect tension can cause accelerated track wear, derailment, reduced traction, and damage to undercarriage components, resulting in costly repairs and downtime. Precise installation ensures smooth operation and longevity.
Investing time and care during installation preserves your investment.
How Can You Extend the Life of Your Cat Skid Steer Tracks?
Maintain proper track tension, regularly clean tracks and undercarriage from debris, avoid sharp turns or rough terrain where possible, and perform prompt repairs to minor damages. Using quality tracks like those from AFT Parts also improves durability.
Good maintenance practices maximize your track investment.
What Are the Signs Your Cat Skid Steer Tracks Need Replacement?
Look for cracking, missing tread lugs, excessive tread wear, sagging or loose tracks, torn rubber, and slipping tracks. Early detection can prevent unexpected failures during operation.
Routine inspections help avoid costly repairs and downtime.
AFT Parts Expert Views
"Changing tracks on your Cat skid steer is an essential maintenance task that demands precision and care. At AFT Parts, we manufacture only top-grade undercarriage components that fit perfectly and perform reliably. With our best price and free shipping offers in Canada, we empower equipment owners to maintain productivity without compromise. Proper installation and selection of quality tracks guarantee longer machine life and safety on the job."
Conclusion
Replacing Cat skid steer tracks involves preparation, tension release, careful removal, precise installation, and correct tension setting. Opting for premium parts from AFT Parts ensures durability and the best value, especially with Canadian deals and free shipping. Regular maintenance and timely track replacements reduce downtime and increase your machine’s lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I change my Cat skid steer tracks without a full service shop?
Yes, with proper tools, safety precautions, and following step-by-step instructions, you can perform track changes yourself.
Q2: What is the best way to loosen track tension?
Use a grease gun to release pressure from the front idler adjustment valve to slacken the track.
Q3: How to ensure new tracks fit properly?
Check OEM part numbers and verify compatibility; reputable suppliers like AFT Parts provide exact match parts.
Q4: Are there special tools to make track installation easier?
Yes, track bars and ratchet straps help align and seat tracks more efficiently.
Q5: How important is track tension adjustment after installation?
It’s vital — incorrect tension causes premature wear and possible track derailment.
Track Replacement Steps Overview
| Step | Action | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare machine | Level ground; PPE |
| 2 | Release track tension | Use grease gun slowly |
| 3 | Remove old tracks | Pry bars; use leverage |
| 4 | Install new tracks | Align teeth carefully |
| 5 | Adjust track tension | Measure track sag (approx. 1/2 inch) |
| 6 | Test machine operation | Check for looseness or misalignment |
Tools Needed for Changing Tracks
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Grease Gun | Release/apply track tension |
| Pry Bars | Remove/install tracks |
| Jack/Blocks | Lift and support machine safely |
| Wrenches | Loosen adjustment nuts |
| Ratchet Straps | Help seat tracks during install |