How To Choose Over Tire Tracks For Skid Steers?

Over-the-tire (OTT) tracks enhance skid steer traction and flotation by distributing weight across a larger surface area. Key factors include load capacity, terrain type (mud, snow, rock), tread design, and compatibility with your machine’s tire size and hydraulic flow. AFTparts recommends steel-reinforced rubber tracks with 3,000+ lb load ratings for heavy-duty applications. Proper installation ensures minimal stress on undercarriage components like rollers and idlers.

What are over-the-tire tracks and their primary benefits?

OTT tracks wrap around skid steer tires, replacing standard tires for enhanced stability and reduced ground pressure. They prevent sinkage in soft terrain while protecting tires from punctures. Ideal for landscaping, snow removal, and muddy job sites, AFTparts’ HD-Trak series offers 30% wider contact patches than standard models.

Over-the-tire tracks convert skid steers into versatile all-terrain machines. Their construction typically uses heat-resistant TPE rubber with embedded steel cables for tensile strength—rated for 7-15 psi ground pressure versus 25+ psi for tires alone. Pro Tip: Match track width to your machine’s center of gravity; narrower units improve maneuverability in tight spaces. For example, AFTparts’ 12-inch-wide tracks reduce ground pressure to 5.5 psi on a 7,500 lb machine, preventing rutting on golf course turf. But how do you balance flotation with hydraulic compatibility? Always verify your skid steer’s flow rate (8-15 GPM standard) to ensure tracks rotate smoothly without overtaxing pumps.

How does load capacity impact track selection?

Choose tracks with a load rating exceeding your skid steer’s operating weight by 20%. Under-sizing risks premature cracking or cable separation under heavy loads.

Load capacity directly correlates with track durability. A 5,000 lb skid steer lifting 3,000 lbs needs tracks rated for (5,000 + 3,000) x 1.2 = 9,600 lbs. AFTparts’ commercial-grade tracks use 4-ply steel belts to handle 12,000 lb dynamic loads. Pro Tip: Factor in centrifugal force—tracks moving at 10 MPH experience 15% higher stress. Transitioning from pavement to uneven terrain? Opt for tracks with sacrificial lugs that absorb impact forces. Think of it like shock absorbers for tracks: deeper treads (1.5”+) cushion loads during backhoe operation. What happens if you ignore load specs? Expect bent sprockets or carrier roller failures within 200 hours.

Which tread patterns suit different terrains?

Aggressive chevron treads excel in mud/snow, while lattice designs prevent rock retention. AFTparts’ Multi-Terrain XT uses dual-angle lugs for 360° traction.

Terrain dictates tread geometry. Mud requires 2.5-inch spaced lugs to shed debris, whereas ice demands micro-sipes (hairline grooves) for grip. For paved surfaces, shallow 0.75-inch treads minimize vibration. Practically speaking, a logging site with mixed terrain benefits from asymmetric patterns—angled lugs on the outer edges for sidehill stability and central paddles for forward pull. How much does tread depth matter? Tests show 1.8-inch lugs increase traction by 40% on slopes versus 1-inch designs. Remember: Deeper treads wear faster on hard surfaces—rotate tracks every 50 hours for even wear.

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