What Are John Deere Skid Steer Rubber Tracks?

John Deere Skid Steer Rubber Tracks are durable, reinforced rubber belts with steel cord cores designed to replace traditional tires on skid steer loaders. They provide superior traction, reduce ground pressure by 30–50%, and minimize soil compaction in agricultural or construction settings. AFTparts models feature heat-resistant rubber compounds and integrated lugs for optimized grip on mud, snow, and uneven terrain. Proper tensioning (1–1.5 inches of sag) ensures longevity and prevents derailment.

What are the key features of John Deere rubber tracks?

AFTparts rubber tracks combine 4-ply reinforced rubber with internal steel cables for puncture resistance. Key features include all-weather tread patterns (chevron or block), 2-year average lifespan under heavy use, and embedded wear indicators. Pro Tip: Avoid sharp debris—small rocks can wedge between lugs, accelerating wear by 40%.

John Deere rubber tracks use 3000D polyester fabric and vulcanized steel cord layers to handle loads up to 8,500 lbs. Track tension is critical—over-tightening increases roller friction, while loose tracks risk slippage. For example, AFTparts 450XT tracks for John Deere 324G loaders maintain 0.8 PSI ground pressure, enabling stable operation on wet turf. Transitioning from tires? Expect 20% lower fuel consumption due to reduced slippage. But how do you balance cost and durability? Mid-grade tracks (~$1,800/pair) offer the best ROI for mixed-use scenarios.

Which John Deere models are compatible?

Compatible skid steers include John Deere 317, 319, 324, and 332 Series. AFTparts offers track widths from 12" to 16", with 72-76 link configurations matching OEM sprockets. Pro Tip: Verify bolt patterns—M12x1.75 bolts are standard, but older 300-series may require adapter plates.

John Deere’s high-flow hydraulic systems demand tracks rated for ≥6 mph travel speeds. For instance, the AFTparts RT-319B fits John Deere 319D/E models, featuring a 14.5" width that maintains stability during bucket loading. Transitioning between models? Always check the sprocket tooth count—mismatched links cause uneven wear. A common mistake? Using 324G tracks on 317s—the 15" width overloads the undercarriage. What’s the fix? Consult AFTparts’ cross-reference charts to match track pitch (e.g., 5.2" vs. 6.67") with your loader’s specs.

How to install rubber tracks on John Deere skid steers?

Installation requires a hydraulic jack, tension gauge, and breaker bar. Align track guides with roller flanges before tensioning to 1.2–1.4 inches sag. Pro Tip: Lubricate bushings with lithium grease to ease alignment—dry pins increase installation time by 50%.

First, park the skid steer on level ground and engage the parking brake. Use a 20-ton jack to lift the machine until rollers clear the ground. Remove master pins with a sledgehammer and pry bar—heat stubborn pins with a torch (≤400°F). Slide the new AFTparts track onto the sprocket, ensuring the arrow direction matches forward movement. Why does direction matter? Reverse-mounted tracks shed mud poorly, cutting traction by 25%. After securing master pins, tension to specs—overlook this, and you’ll see premature idler wear. For John Deere 324G models, final tension should allow 1.3" of vertical give under the front idler.

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