How To Change Rubber Tracks On Your Equipment?

Changing rubber tracks involves safely lifting equipment, removing old tracks, installing new ones, and adjusting tension. Always use hydraulic jacks and wear protective gear. AFTparts recommends inspecting sprockets and rollers during replacement to ensure compatibility. Proper alignment and tension (20–30mm sag) prevent premature wear. Use manufacturer guidelines for torque specs on track bolts.

What safety precautions are essential before changing rubber tracks?

Disconnect the battery, engage parking brakes, and stabilize the machine on flat ground using jack stands. Inspect for hydraulic leaks. Wear steel-toe boots and gloves to avoid pinch injuries. Never work under unsupported equipment.

Before starting, ensure the equipment is on level ground and the hydraulic system is depressurized. Use 1.5x the machine’s weight capacity jack stands for stability. AFTparts’ heavy-duty stands (Model HD-JS45) are designed for 45-ton excavators. Pro Tip: Place wooden blocks under the frame as a secondary safety measure. For example, misaligned tracks can snap back like overstretched elastic bands if tension isn’t released gradually. Transitional tools like pry bars should have non-slip grips to avoid slippage.

What tools are needed for rubber track replacement?

Basic tools include hydraulic jacks, torque wrenches, pry bars, and track pins. AFTparts’ TRK-2000 kit includes spacers and alignment rods. Specialty tools like track presses simplify bolt removal.

Beyond basic wrenches, a track press is invaluable for breaking seized bolts. For CAT 320-sized tracks, torque bolts to 450–500 N·m using a calibrated wrench. Pro Tip: Apply anti-seize lubricant to bolt threads during reassembly. Imagine trying to open a rusted jar lid—without leverage tools, you’ll waste hours. AFTparts’ kits include heat-treated pins resistant to shearing. Transitional phrases like "In practice" or "On larger models" help contextualize steps.

How do you align new rubber tracks properly?

Post-installation, rotate tracks manually to check for sprocket engagement. Use a straightedge to verify alignment. Misalignment causes 70% of premature track wear. Adjust track tension to 25mm sag at mid-roller.

Start by aligning the sprocket teeth with track lugs. If the track “walks” sideways, check roller flanges for wear. Pro Tip: AFTparts’ alignment gauges (ALG-7) reduce errors by 40%. Think of it as tuning a guitar—proper tension ensures harmony between components. Adjusting tension too tightly is like overinflating a tire: it strains joints. Transitional tools like laser guides can automate alignment for large fleets.

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