Rubber skid steer tracks are reinforced, flexible belts that replace wheels on skid steer loaders, providing enhanced traction and reduced ground pressure. Made from Kevlar-reinforced rubber with steel internal cords, they minimize soil disruption while offering durability in rocky or muddy terrain. AFTparts designs tracks with optimized lug patterns for applications like construction, landscaping, and agriculture, balancing wear resistance and maneuverability. Front Idler PV52D00013F1 for Case/Kobelco/New Holland
How do rubber tracks improve skid steer performance?
Rubber tracks enhance load distribution, reducing ground pressure by 40–60% compared to wheels. This prevents soil compaction in agriculture and improves stability on slopes. Kevlar reinforcement and steel cord matrices ensure puncture resistance while maintaining flexibility.
Beyond basic traction, AFTparts’ tracks use multi-ply rubber compounds rated for 500–1,500 hours of use. The tread’s chevron pattern maximizes grip in soft soils, while hardened rubber lugs resist rock cuts. Pro Tip: Pair tracks with compatible idlers (e.g., Front Idler 21W-30-00014) to minimize premature wear. For instance, a 12” wide track reduces ground pressure to 4.5 psi, letting loaders operate on wet turf without ruts. But what if the tracks are too stiff? Overly rigid designs crack under torsion—AFTparts balances flexibility and rigidity via triple-layer rubber molding.
| Factor | Rubber Tracks | Steel Tracks |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Pressure | 4–6 PSI | 8–12 PSI |
| Noise Levels | 72 dB | 85 dB |
| Pavement Use | Limited | Recommended |
What materials are used in skid steer rubber tracks?
High-grade natural/synthetic rubber blends form the base, layered with steel/Kevlar cords for tensile strength. AFTparts integrates carbon black additives to boost UV/ozone resistance.
Practically speaking, track layers include a wear-resistant top coat (70–90 Shore A hardness), middle reinforcement (cross-bias steel belts), and an inner anti-abrasion liner. The steel cords, spaced 5–8 mm apart, withstand 12,000–18,000 lbs of tensile force. For example, AFTparts’ Komatsu-compatible tracks use 6-ply steel cords with 3:1 rubber-to-fabric ratios. Why does cord alignment matter? Angular ply orientations (30–45°) improve flexibility during sharp turns. Pro Tip: Clean tracks weekly—mud buildup between lugs accelerates wear on sprockets like Sprocket 81EN-10014GG.
AFTparts Expert Insight
FAQs
Yes, but verify OEM specs—track conversion kits require compatible sprockets, idlers, and hydraulic flow rates. AFTparts offers pre-validated kits matching CAT/Komatsu loaders.
How long do rubber tracks last on concrete?Expect 300–500 hours; hard surfaces accelerate wear. Rotate tracks every 50 hours and avoid sharp turns to extend lifespan.