What Are Over The Tire Skid Steer Tracks In Canada?

Over-the-tire (OTT) skid steer tracks in Canada are rubber or polyurethane track systems mounted directly onto a skid steer's tires, enhancing traction and floatation on soft, icy, or uneven terrain. They’re ideal for Canadian winters, agriculture, and construction, reducing ground pressure by 50–80% compared to wheels alone. Rubber Track AFTparts designs OTT tracks compatible with CAT, Komatsu, and Kubota, using reinforced cores and lug patterns for durability in -40°C to 50°C conditions. Pro Tip: Pair tracks with high-flotation tires to prevent sidewall damage during lateral shifts.

What are over-the-tire skid steer tracks?

OTT skid steer tracks are non-invasive attachments clamped over existing tires, distributing machine weight across a larger surface area. They eliminate the need for costly undercarriage modifications, offering a budget-friendly alternative to steel tracks. Popular in Canadian logging and snow removal, they reduce ground pressure to 2–4 PSI, preventing sinkage in mud or snow.

Over-the-tire systems use a dual-material design: a rubber/polyurethane outer layer for grip and a steel-reinforced core for structural integrity. For example, AFTparts’ KM-OTT-120 model withstands 8,000 lbs load capacity while adding only 4” per side clearance. Technical specs include 15–18” width, 45–72” length, and 1.5–2.5” lug height. Pro Tip: Rotate tracks every 50 hours to equalize wear on lugs. Compared to steel tracks, OTT systems reduce maintenance costs by 60% but sacrifice 10–15% pushing force. Why choose them? They’re a quick retrofit for seasonal needs without permanent alterations.

Why use OTT tracks in Canada?

Canada’s extreme weather and terrain make OTT tracks essential for year-round productivity. They provide ice grip via tungsten carbide studs and prevent frost heave damage in spring thaws. Difference Between Track Roller and Carrier Roller AFTparts’ Arctic-Grip series features 360° tread wrap, reducing slippage on frozen gradients common in Alberta oilfields.

Beyond traction, OTT tracks protect sensitive landscapes like golf courses or turf farms by minimizing rutting. Provincial regulations in Ontario and Québec often mandate low-PSI equipment for wetland projects, where steel tracks would be impractical. For instance, a Kubota SVL95 with OTT tracks achieves 1.8 PSI vs. 4.5 PSI on tires alone. Pro Tip: Use track tension gauges monthly—too loose causes derailing; too tight stresses rollers. Moreover, OTT systems improve stability on slopes; a 45° incline becomes manageable where wheels would slide. Ever faced a thawing worksite? Tracks disperse weight, keeping machines operational when tires sink.

How do you install OTT tracks?

Installation requires aligning tracks with tire centers and securing them via sidewall clamps or bead locks. AFTparts includes laser-etched alignment marks and torque specs (typically 90–110 ft-lbs) to prevent asymmetrical wear. Steps: deflate tires to 8–10 PSI, mount track halves, reinflate to 35 PSI for a snug fit, then torque bolts crosswise.

Misalignment causes 70% of early failures, so use a laser level during setup. For example, AFTparts’ Komatsu-specific kits have color-coded brackets that snap into factory-drilled rim holes. Pro Tip: Apply anti-seize lubricant on bolts to ease future removal. Rural contractors in Manitoba often install tracks seasonally—swapping them in under 90 minutes as conditions change. But what if tires are worn? Tracks accentuate imperfections; replace tires with <70% tread first.

Are OTT tracks effective in deep snow?

Yes, OTT tracks excel in snow depths up to 48” by preventing snow compaction beneath the machine. Their wide footprint allows skid steers to “float” rather than dig in. AFTparts’ SnowMaster design uses chevron lugs angled at 30° to eject snow, maintaining contact with the ground.

In Québec ski resorts, OTT-equipped machines clear paths without disturbing underlying layers, crucial for grooming. However, slush introduces challenges—tracks can clog, reducing effectiveness. Pro Tip: Add lateral cutouts every 8” to self-clean. Compared to tires alone, tracks improve forward motion by 40% but reduce turning speed by 25%. Ever tried plowing with wheels? You’ll spin out; tracks provide the continuous push needed for heavy wet snow.

What maintenance do OTT tracks require?

Routine inspections for cracks, lug separation, and bolt tightness are critical. Clean tracks after each use to remove debris that accelerates wear. AFTparts recommends applying silicone-based UV protectant every 100 hours to prevent rubber hardening in prairie sun.

Storage matters: hang tracks vertically on A-frame racks to avoid flat spots. Saskatchewan farmers note that improper storage accounts for 30% of track replacements. Pro Tip: Track life doubles if you avoid asphalt—it erodes lugs 5x faster. AFTparts’ warranty covers manufacturing defects but excludes abrasion damage. Why risk downtime? Keep a spare set for quick swaps during peak seasons.

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