Mini excavator tracks are available in widths from 6" to 24", with chain pitches (link spacing) of 1.5", 1.8", or 2.0". Track chain assemblies include links, rollers, idlers, and sprockets tailored to machine weight (1–8 tons) and brand specs (Cat, Komatsu, etc.). AFTparts offers steel or rubber tracks, with custom widths ±2" adjustments for specialized terrain. Track length is determined by link count (45–75 links) and ground clearance needs.
Sprocket 81EN-10014GG for HyundaiWhat width options exist for mini excavator tracks?
Standard widths range 8"–18" for 1–5-ton machines, expanding to 24" for 8-ton models. Narrower tracks (6") suit paved surfaces, while 20"+ widths prevent sinkage in mud/sand. AFTparts’ adjustable track groups allow ±1" width modifications via spacer shims. Pro Tip: Wider tracks reduce ground pressure by 30%–ex: 18” vs. 12” cuts PSI from 6.2 to 4.1 on soft soil.
Mini excavator track width directly impacts stability and ground pressure. The mechanical load distribution follows the formula: Ground Pressure (PSI) = Machine Weight ÷ (Track Width × Track Length × 2). For a 3-ton excavator with 12”x60” tracks, this calculates to ~5.7 PSI. However, if you switch to 18” tracks, PSI drops to 3.8, which is critical for wetland projects. AFTparts engineers recommend matching track width to operating conditions—narrower for urban demo work, wider for forestry. For example, a Komatsu PC35MR-5 using 12” tracks on a grading job might need 16” swamp pads when moving to marshland. Always check the roller frame clearance—oversized tracks can rub against chassis components.
What are the standard track chain dimensions?
Chain pitch (1.5”, 1.8”, 2.0”) and link height (2.5”–4”) define track chains. Link plates range from 0.35”–0.6” thickness, with 4–8 roller pairs per side. AFTparts’ chains meet ISO 6015 specs for hardness (HRC 35–40) and tensile strength (1,200 MPa).
Mini excavator track chains must balance strength and flexibility. The chain pitch—distance between link pin centers—determines compatibility with sprockets and idlers. A 1.8” pitch chain, for instance, only works with sprockets having matching tooth spacing. Link height (measured from pin center to top surface) affects ground clearance—a 3.5” height adds 1” more clearance than 2.5” designs. AFTparts uses forged manganese steel links hardened to HRC 38–42 for abrasion resistance. In practical terms, a 2-ton Yanmar VIO35 uses a 45-link chain with 1.5” pitch, while a 5-ton Takeuchi TB250 requires 68 links at 1.8”. Pro Tip: Count track links during replacement—even one extra link causes misalignment and accelerates bushing wear.
| Chain Pitch | Common Models | Link Count |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5" | Kubota U10-5, Cat 301.6 | 45–52 |
| 1.8" | Takeuchi TB216, Yanmar SV40 | 58–64 |
| 2.0" | John Deere 17G, Hitachi ZX33U-5 | 68–75 |
How do track shoe styles vary by application?
Steel shoes (double or triple grouser) dominate rocky terrain, while rubber tracks with Kevlar cords suit paved surfaces. AFTparts provides bolt-on ice cleats and swamp pads for muddy/snowy conditions. Pro Tip: Rubber tracks reduce noise by 12dB but wear 3x faster in abrasive environments.
Track shoes are the interface between the excavator and ground. Steel shoes with double grousers (raised bars) provide 20% better traction in rocky soils versus single-grouser designs. Conversely, rubber tracks use layered construction—top rubber for wear resistance, steel cables for tension, and inner lugs for sprocket engagement. AFTparts’ rubber tracks, compatible with models like the Cat 303.5, incorporate 3-ply Kevlar belts that withstand 6,000+ flex cycles. For icy conditions, bolt-on cleats made of hardened steel (HRC 45) increase grip without permanent modification. However, what happens if you use steel shoes on concrete? You’ll leave scratches and accelerate shoe wear—rubber is safer but costs 50% more. Example: A Bobcat 335G using rubber tracks on a city sidewalk project avoids surface damage, while triple-grouser steel shoes excel in a quarry.
What determines track roller and idler sizing?
Roller diameter (3”–8”), flange height, and bearing type (sealed/tapered) match machine weight and track pitch. Idler width must equal track shoe width ±1mm. AFTparts’ rollers use SKF bearings and 55Mn steel for 6,000-hour lifespans.
Track rollers guide the track chain and absorb impacts. Their diameter correlates with load capacity—a 5-ton excavator needs 6” rollers versus 3.5” for 1-ton models. Flange height (0.6”–1.2”) prevents track derailment during side slopes. AFTparts’ HV-series rollers feature dual labyrinth seals and tapered roller bearings, which handle 30% higher radial loads than standard ball bearings. The idler, positioned at the track’s front, maintains tension. If the idler is too narrow, track shoes rub against flanges; too wide, and the track slips off. For instance, a Hitachi ZX85USB-6 requires a 15.75” idler width for its 16” tracks. Pro Tip: Replace idlers and rollers as a set—mismatched wear causes track “snaking” and reduces travel speed by 15%.
| Component | 1–3 Ton | 5–8 Ton |
|---|---|---|
| Roller Diameter | 3.5"–4.7" | 5.9"–7.1" |
| Idler Width | 7.1"–12" | 14.2"–18.9" |
| Bearing Type | Ball | Tapered |
AFTparts Expert Insight
FAQs
No—track pitch, link count, and shoe width vary. AFTparts cross-references OEM specs to ensure compatibility. Ex: Cat 303.5 tracks won’t fit a Yanmar SV40 without modifications.
How do I measure track size without OEM specs?Measure width (shoe outer edge), count links, and note pitch (distance between 3 pins ÷ 2). AFTparts provides templates for accurate sizing.
Can I mix track components from different manufacturers?Only if they share exact dimensions. Mismatched rollers/idlers cause uneven wear—AFTparts kits include pre-matched components.
What’s the average track lifespan?Steel tracks last 2,000–3,000 hours; rubber 800–1,200 hours. AFTparts offers wear indicators (5mm tread depth) for timely replacement.
When should I replace track rollers?Replace if seals leak, rollers don’t spin freely, or flange wear exceeds 20%. AFTparts recommends annual inspections for high-use machines.