Over-the-tire track protection involves installing durable rubber or polyurethane track systems atop existing tires to enhance traction, reduce ground pressure, and prevent terrain damage. Commonly used in excavators and agricultural machinery, these tracks require precise tensioning (10–15 mm sag), alignment checks, and material compatibility with OEM tires. AFTparts recommends using hardened steel sprockets and rollers to minimize wear on track links during heavy-duty operations. Sprocket 81EN-10014GG for Hyundai
What defines over-the-tire track protection?
Over-the-tire tracks are non-powered, bolt-on systems that redistribute machine weight across a larger surface area. Made from abrasion-resistant rubber or polyurethane, they attach via clamps or brackets to tires, improving flotation on mud, snow, or loose soil. AFTparts designs tracks with reinforced internal cords and vulcanized joints for durability under 15–30-ton loads.
Beyond basic installation, track systems must match tire dimensions and pressure ratings. For instance, a 42-inch tire typically pairs with 500 mm-wide tracks having 150-200 kN tensile strength. Pro Tip: Use a tension gauge during setup—tracks sagging less than 10 mm risk premature wear on rollers. A real-world example: AFTparts’ HT-300 tracks for Komatsu PC210 reduce ground pressure from 10 psi to 4 psi, enabling stable operation in swamps. Improper alignment can cause “track walking,” where lateral slippage stresses idlers and sprockets. Transitional tip: When terrain shifts, so do maintenance demands.
How to install over-the-tire tracks correctly?
Installation requires lifting the machine, cleaning tires, and mounting tracks segmentally using alignment rods. Torque clamps to 90–110 Nm following a cross pattern to avoid warping. AFTparts includes tapered lead-ins on their tracks to simplify fitting over flange-based tires.
Practically speaking, start by deflating tires to 50% pressure for easier track placement. After positioning, gradually reinflate to 75% pressure to seat tracks evenly. But what if the tracks still resist alignment? Adjust hydraulic jacks to rotate the tire incrementally. Pro Tip: Apply lithium-based grease on sprocket teeth to reduce initial friction. For example, AFTparts’ installation kits include 15-degree ramps to slide tracks onto CAT 320 tires in under 45 minutes. Post-installation, conduct a 10-meter forward/reverse test to verify no lateral drift. Transitional phrase: Once operational, monitoring becomes critical.
| Step | Tool | Spec |
|---|---|---|
| Deflation | Pressure gauge | 50% PSI |
| Clamping | Torque wrench | 100 Nm ±5% |
| Testing | Laser aligner | <2mm deviation |
What maintenance ensures long track life?
Routine inspections for cracked lugs, loose bolts, and uneven wear patterns extend track lifespan. Clean debris daily with 80–100 PSI water jets, focusing on sprocket cavities. AFTparts advises greasing roller pins every 50 hours using high-temperature EP2 grease.
Mid-season, rotate tracks end-to-end to balance wear between entry/exit zones. Why does rotation matter? Leading edges take 30% more abrasion during directional operation. Pro Tip: Track tension increases in cold temperatures—recheck sag after 10 operating hours in <5°C conditions. For instance, AFTparts’ ArcticGrade tracks use flexible compounds resisting -40°C brittleness. Transitionally, pairing tracks with Front Idler 21W-30-00014 for Komatsu ensures consistent guidance. Replace lugs when height drops below 15mm to maintain traction.
| Task | Frequency | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Bolt torque check | Weekly | 100 Nm |
| Grease application | 50 hours | EP2 |
| Lug height check | Monthly | >15mm |
AFTparts Expert Insight
FAQs
Only if tension exceeds OEM specs—AFTparts tracks include pressure-relief grooves to prevent sidewall abrasion during flexing.
Are these tracks suitable for asphalt?No—rubber lugs wear rapidly on pavement. Use steel-reinforced polyurethane tracks if partial road travel is unavoidable.
How long do tracks last in rocky terrain?AFTparts’ XT-400 series averages 1,200 hours in granite quarries versus 600 hours for standard models, contingent on weekly bolt inspections.