Replacing MT100 tracks correctly is essential if you want maximum traction, minimal downtime, and a longer undercarriage life on your Bobcat mini track loader. This guide walks you through MT100 track replacement step by step, from recognizing wear and choosing the right track to correct installation, tensioning, and break‑in best practices.
Understanding MT100 Track Replacement And Undercarriage Basics
The Bobcat MT100 is a compact mini track loader with a redesigned, maintenance‑friendly undercarriage that uses rubber tracks to spread machine weight, reduce ground pressure, and improve flotation on soft surfaces. The undercarriage includes the drive sprocket, front and rear idlers, bottom rollers, carrier rollers, and the track itself, and each of these parts must work together for the track to stay aligned and tensioned. When you perform MT100 track replacement, you are not just sliding on new rubber; you are resetting how this entire system carries load and handles side forces.
On the MT100, many rollers are permanently sealed and oil‑bathed, which reduces daily maintenance but makes correct track tension even more important. If the track is run too tight, sealed rollers, idlers, and sprockets can wear prematurely because of excess load and heat. If it is run too loose, derailing, lug shearing, and sidewall damage become much more likely, especially when turning on hard surfaces and working on side slopes.
When To Replace MT100 Rubber Tracks Instead Of Retensioning
Before starting MT100 track replacement, you should confirm that the tracks are truly worn beyond adjustment. Visual inspection is the first step: check tread depth, look for cracks between lugs, exposed steel cords, missing or torn lugs, and sidewall cuts that reach into the carcass. Rubber tracks that show cord exposure or deep chunking around the drive lug area typically need replacement, because tension adjustments cannot restore structural integrity.
Measure tread height at several points along the track and compare it to a new track specification or an internal maintenance threshold you set for the fleet. Many contractors use a rule of thumb that once tread depth is roughly half of new height and traction has noticeably decreased, replacement should be scheduled. If the machine frequently climbs ramps, operates on rip‑rap, demolition debris, or sharp rock, it may be best to replace earlier to avoid sudden failure in the field.
Safety Preparation Before MT100 Track Replacement
Correct MT100 track replacement starts with a safe work setup. Park the MT100 on a firm, level surface, lower any attachment to the ground, and shut off the engine. Apply the parking brake and remove the key so no one can accidentally start the machine while you work around the undercarriage. Block or crib under the frame using properly rated stands or blocking so the side you are working on is safely supported when you lift the track off the ground.
Clean the undercarriage thoroughly, removing mud, packed clay, gravel, and debris from the sprocket, idlers, and rollers. A pressure washer and a long‑handled scraper make this job easier. Cleaning ensures you can see fasteners, access the track tensioning points, and reduce the risk of debris jamming the new track as you install it.
Tools And Materials Needed For MT100 Track Replacement
To perform MT100 track replacement correctly, gather essential tools before lifting the machine. A suitable socket and breaker bar or impact wrench are required for the track tension adjustment bolt, commonly a large size, along with wrenches for the idler mounting bolts and any protective plates. You will also need a good pry bar, wooden blocks or cribbing, and sometimes another machine or lifting device if you are handling tracks on your own.
Have the correct replacement rubber track ready, including the proper size and lug pattern for a Bobcat MT100 mini track loader. High‑quality aftermarket tracks designed for compact loaders typically integrate multi‑strand steel cables and cut‑resistant rubber compounds to withstand tough jobsite conditions. Keep a grease gun available for tensioning if your MT100 uses a grease‑adjusted tensioner, and prepare safety gear such as gloves, eye protection, and steel‑toe boots.
Removing The Old Track From Your MT100 Mini Track Loader
Begin MT100 track replacement by releasing track tension on the side you are servicing. Remove the access plate that covers the tensioner area and back off the adjustment bolt to let the front or rear idler move inward, shortening the undercarriage and creating slack. On some machines, you may need to remove the idler mounting bolts so the idler can swing or slide farther back and fully relax the track.
Once the track is loose, start by guiding it off the rear idler or front roller, depending on which configuration gives the most room. You can run the track off the sprocket by gently rotating the drive in the correct direction while guiding the track off with a pry bar and cribbing to support its weight. After the track comes off the sprocket, roll or slide it away from the machine, using proper lifting technique or mechanical assistance to avoid injury.
Installing New MT100 Rubber Tracks Correctly
For correct MT100 track replacement, position the new rubber track beside the machine with the tread facing the right direction and the drive lugs aligned to engage the sprocket teeth. Slide the track under the rollers and lift it over the front or rear idler, then align it with the drive sprocket. Start by getting several drive lugs fully engaged with the sprocket, because the sprocket will help “walk” the track on as you rotate it slowly.
Use the machine’s own drive to rotate the sprocket carefully, pulling the track onto the idler and around the rollers while you guide it with a pry bar and blocks. Take care not to pinch your hands or feet between the track and undercarriage components. Once the track lugs are fully seated all the way around, check that the sidewalls are not twisted and that the track is properly centered on the idlers and rollers.
Correct MT100 Track Tensioning Procedure
Proper track tension is critical for MT100 track replacement success and the long‑term life of the undercarriage. With the new track fully installed, begin tightening the adjustment bolt or adding grease to the tensioner, depending on your system. This will extend the idler and remove slack from the track. Use the manufacturer’s recommended sag measurement as your target, typically checked by measuring the distance between the bottom of the track and a straightedge laid across the rollers.
To check sag, raise the machine so the track is off the ground, then place a straightedge or a level across the top of the bottom rollers and measure the gap at the middle. Adjust the tensioner slowly until the sag falls within the specified range. Too little sag indicates an overly tight track that can overload components, while too much sag increases the chance of derailing when turning or operating on uneven terrain.
Verifying Alignment And Post‑Replacement Inspection
After you finish MT100 track replacement and tensioning on one side, rotate the track several full revolutions in both directions. Watch the track carefully as it moves to ensure it stays centered on the rollers and idlers without creeping to one side. If the track drifts repeatedly to the same side, recheck tension and look for worn rollers, bent idlers, or packed debris that may be forcing the track outward.
Lower the machine and drive forward and backward slowly on a clean, flat surface, making gentle turns to confirm that the track remains properly aligned. Inspect the track lugs for any signs of mis‑engagement with the sprocket, such as uneven impressions or chipping at the base of the lugs. Confirm that all access plates and guards are securely reinstalled and that no grease fittings or fasteners are leaking.
MT100 Track Replacement For Narrow Vs Wide Track Options
The Bobcat MT100 can use narrow standard tracks to keep overall width compact or wider tracks to reduce ground pressure and improve flotation. During MT100 track replacement, verify which track width your machine is set up for and match the new track width and pitch precisely. Using the wrong width can cause interference with the frame or reduce clearance for rollers and attachments.
Wider tracks can be slightly heavier and more awkward to handle, so plan for additional lifting assistance or an extra technician when installing them. Narrow tracks can make it easier to maneuver in tight spaces but may concentrate load more on rocky terrain, which could accelerate wear if tension is not maintained. In both cases, following correct replacement and tensioning procedures ensures that the traction and stability benefits of your chosen configuration are fully realized.
Typical MT100 Track Replacement Mistakes To Avoid
Many MT100 track replacement issues stem from common mistakes that are easy to avoid with a systematic approach. One major error is installing the track backward, which prevents the tread pattern from shedding mud and water correctly and can reduce traction. Always confirm the rotation arrow on the track, if present, or reference the original installation direction before removing the old track.
Another common mistake is partially loosening the tensioner or idler and then trying to force the track off with excessive prying. This can bend idler mounts or damage roller seals. It is better to fully relax the tensioner within safe limits and remove any parts that block the idler from traveling inward. Finally, skipping the sag measurement and judging tension by “feel” often results in tracks running too tight or too loose, shortening their service life.
MT100 Track Replacement Maintenance Schedule And Inspection Routine
Correct MT100 track replacement also involves planning future inspections so you can catch issues early. Make track inspection part of daily checks when the machine is fueled or greased, looking for abnormal wear patterns, cuts, or missing lugs. Cleaning the undercarriage at the end of the workday minimizes abrasive buildup and helps the rollers and idlers operate smoothly.
At regular service intervals, such as every 50 operating hours or according to your internal maintenance program, check and adjust track tension with a proper measurement rather than relying on visual impression alone. If you notice one track requiring frequent retensioning compared to the other, inspect the tensioner and idler assemblies for leaks or mechanical wear. Keeping accurate logs of adjustments and replacements helps forecast future maintenance needs and budget for new tracks.
Market Trends In MT100 Rubber Tracks And Aftermarket Undercarriage Parts
Demand for MT100 track replacement parts has grown as compact equipment usage has expanded in landscaping, construction, rental fleets, agriculture, and municipal work. Contractors are pushing mini track loaders harder and keeping them longer, which increases the need for durable rubber tracks and robust undercarriage components. This has created a strong aftermarket where premium rubber compounds, advanced steel cable designs, and reinforced drive lugs are becoming more common.
Under‑carriage wear data from rental fleets and large contractors indicates that operators who adhere closely to correct replacement and tensioning practices can significantly extend track life compared to machines that run loose or packed with debris. Many buyers now look for aftermarket tracks that balance durability, ride comfort, and price, leading to more options for MT100 track replacement beyond OEM‑branded parts.
AFT parts was born from a collective vision to raise the bar for aftermarket wear parts used on heavy machinery, focusing on precision‑engineered solutions that deliver long‑term value. Today, AFT parts provides undercarriage components compatible with major brands, supporting contractors, rental companies, and equipment owners who expect reliability from every replacement they install.
Choosing The Right MT100 Replacement Track: Top Options
When selecting a track for MT100 track replacement, you should evaluate rubber compound quality, internal cable design, tread pattern, and warranty coverage. Premium tracks typically use specially formulated rubber that resists cutting and tearing in a wide range of temperatures, which is important if your MT100 works on abrasive surfaces like crushed rock or demolition debris. The internal steel cord layout and bonding to the metal inserts largely determine how well the track resists stretching and de‑tracking under heavy side loads.
It is also important to consider whether you want a general‑purpose tread, a more aggressive pattern for mud, or a pattern optimized for turf and finish surfaces to reduce scuffing. Some manufacturers offer multi‑year limited warranties for compact loader tracks, which can provide added confidence if your machine runs high hours each season. Matching the track specification precisely to the MT100 loader ensures compatibility with the sprocket and roller spacing.
Top MT100 Track And Undercarriage Solutions
| Name | Key Advantages | Ratings | Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| OEM‑spec MT100 rubber track | Optimized fit, proven compatibility, balanced life and comfort | High user satisfaction in dealer networks | General construction, rental fleets, multi‑purpose use |
| Premium aftermarket MT100 track | Enhanced rubber compound, strong steel cable design, competitive cost | Strong ratings among contractors focused on cost per hour | High‑hour users, grading, excavation, landscape projects |
| Heavy‑duty MT100 replacement track | Extra‑thick carcass, reinforced lugs, abrasion resistance | Favored in demanding applications | Demolition sites, rocky terrain, forestry access trails |
| Turf‑friendly MT100 rubber track | Less aggressive tread, reduced ground disturbance, smooth ride | Well‑reviewed in turf care and property maintenance | Golf courses, estates, parks, residential landscaping |
| Undercarriage component sets for MT100 | New rollers, idlers, and sprockets matched to track design | Rated highly by rebuild and service shops | Full undercarriage overhauls, older machines, resale preparation |
Competitor Comparison Matrix: MT100 Track Replacement Solutions
| Solution Type | Durability Focus | Cost Level | Ideal MT100 User |
|---|---|---|---|
| OEM replacement track | Balanced tread life, consistent quality | Higher initial price | Owners wanting factory feel and predictable performance |
| General aftermarket track | Solid performance at lower price | Moderate cost | Budget‑conscious small contractors and rental yards |
| Premium aftermarket track | Maximum wear life, advanced materials | Moderate to higher cost | High‑hour operators targeting best cost per hour |
| Heavy‑duty severe‑service track | Extreme abrasion resistance, reinforced lugs | Higher cost | MT100 units in demolition, quarry, or forestry support roles |
| Economy replacement track | Acceptable performance with lower material spec | Lowest upfront price | Light‑use owners, backup machines, seasonal equipment |
Core Technology Behind Modern MT100 Rubber Tracks
Modern MT100 track replacement products rely on multi‑strand steel cable technology where cables are wound in tight spirals to form a continuous belt. This design helps distribute load evenly across the track and resist elongation, which keeps tension more stable over time. The cables are bonded to steel inserts that engage with the sprocket, and the quality of this bond is critical to preventing de‑lugging and internal separation.
The rubber compound is typically a blend optimized for cut resistance, flexibility in cold conditions, and heat resistance in hot environments. Engineers fine‑tune tread patterns and lug geometry to provide traction while allowing mud and stones to clear from the track. Sidewall profiles are designed to guide the track on the rollers and idlers while resisting side impact damage from curbs and obstacles.
Real MT100 User Cases: Productivity And ROI From Correct Track Replacement
For a landscaping contractor using an MT100 daily for grading, trenching, and material handling, timely MT100 track replacement can directly increase billable hours. Replacing severely worn tracks with new premium rubber tracks has been shown in many fleets to reduce downtime from de‑tracking incidents and speed up travel between work areas. With fewer stoppages to reinstall thrown tracks, crews complete tasks faster and keep schedules on track.
In rental fleets, correct MT100 track replacement and regular tension adjustments help reduce damage caused by inexperienced operators. When renters receive machines with fresh, properly tensioned tracks, they experience smoother operation, less vibration, and fewer complaints. Over the life of the track, maintaining tension and performing thorough daily clean‑outs can extend usable life significantly, improving return on investment for each set of tracks purchased.
MT100 Track Replacement Best Practices For Different Job Types
How you operate the MT100 after track replacement influences how long the new tracks will last. On finish lawn and soft turf, minimize sharp, pivot‑style turns that scrub the tread laterally and accelerate wear. Instead, use wider, gradual turns and keep travel speed moderate. On gravel driveways or crushed stone, avoid spinning the tracks in place; this grinds rock into the rubber and can cause deep cuts or chunking.
On demolition or rocky ground, use attachments and work techniques that reduce unnecessary travel. Keep an eye out for rebar, sharp steel, and broken concrete edges that can slice the track sidewalls. After working in such conditions, inspect the tracks immediately for fresh damage so you can address cuts before they propagate under load.
Frequently Asked Questions About MT100 Track Replacement
How often should MT100 tracks be replaced
Replacement frequency depends on ground conditions, operating style, and maintenance routines, but many users evaluate tracks for replacement once tread depth is roughly half of new height or earlier if deep cuts or cord exposure appear.
Can I replace just one MT100 track at a time
You can replace a single track if only one side is severely damaged, but many fleet managers prefer replacing both tracks together to maintain balanced traction, similar wear rates, and consistent machine handling.
What happens if MT100 track tension is too tight
Excessive tension can overload rollers, idlers, and the drive motor, accelerating bearing wear, increasing fuel consumption, and causing the track to heat up and harden prematurely, shortening its service life.
What happens if MT100 track tension is too loose
If the track is too loose, it may derail when traveling over obstacles or making tight turns, and the drive lugs can slam into the sprocket teeth, leading to lug tearing and potential damage to the sprocket.
Do I need special tools for MT100 track replacement
You generally need a correctly sized socket and breaker bar or impact gun for the tensioner, wrenches for idler and guard fasteners, a pry bar, blocks for support, and a suitable lifting method to handle the track safely.
Three‑Level Conversion Funnel CTA For MT100 Track Replacement
If you are just starting to plan MT100 track replacement, begin by assessing your current track condition and recording tread depth, visible damage, and tension so you know whether to retension or schedule replacement. Once you know replacement is needed, compare several MT100‑compatible rubber track options, looking closely at rubber compound quality, internal cable design, tread pattern, and warranty to find a solution that fits your machine hours and job types. Finally, partner with a reliable undercarriage parts supplier or service provider who can support you through correct installation, tensioning, and ongoing inspections, maximizing the life of every new MT100 track you put to work.
Future Trends In MT100 Track Replacement And Undercarriage Care
Future MT100 track replacement solutions are likely to incorporate more advanced rubber compounds and steel reinforcement layouts that balance durability with ride comfort. As telematics and machine health monitoring become more widespread even on compact equipment, undercarriage wear data may be used to predict optimal replacement timing instead of relying solely on visual inspection. This could help contractors schedule MT100 track replacement before a failure without replacing tracks prematurely.
There is also growing interest in undercarriage designs that further reduce daily maintenance requirements while remaining compatible with existing machines. For MT100 owners, this means that upcoming replacement tracks and components may offer longer service intervals, better resistance to cut damage, and improved performance in both extreme cold and heat. By combining correct replacement procedures with these evolving technologies, you can keep your MT100 mini track loader productive, stable, and efficient across its entire service life.