Excavators are workhorses on construction and mining sites, with their tracks bearing the brunt of heavy loads and challenging terrain. To maximize productivity and minimize operational costs, maintaining and extending the lifespan of your excavator tracks is essential. This guide provides practical tips for effective track maintenance and highlights replacement options that offer exceptional value for money.
Why Excavator Tracks Matter
Excavator tracks are more than just components—they’re the foundation of the machine’s mobility and efficiency. Tracks endure the constant stress of heavy loads, rugged terrain, and abrasive materials. A well-maintained track system ensures:
Smooth operations: Enhanced stability and traction.
Reduced downtime: Fewer unexpected breakdowns.
Cost efficiency: Lower repair and replacement expenses.
However, neglecting track maintenance can lead to premature wear, costly replacements, and even damage to other parts of the excavator.
Practical Tips for Excavator Track Maintenance
1. Conduct Regular Inspections
Routine inspections are vital for identifying wear and tear before it escalates into significant damage. Key areas to inspect include:
Track tension: Ensure it’s neither too tight nor too loose.
Shoes and pads: Look for cracks, missing bolts, or excessive wear.
Rollers and idlers: Check for abnormal wear or signs of misalignment.
2. Maintain Proper Track Tension
Incorrect track tension is a leading cause of accelerated wear. Tracks that are too tight strain the system, while loose tracks increase the risk of derailment. Adjust tension according to the manufacturer’s specifications:
Cost to adjust tension: Approximately R2,500 if done professionally.
3. Keep Tracks Clean
Mud, debris, and rocks trapped in the track system can cause damage over time. Regular cleaning prevents excessive wear on components and ensures smooth operation. Use a high-pressure washer or cleaning tools to remove buildup.
4. Avoid Sharp Turns
Frequent sharp turns cause uneven wear on track components. Minimize such maneuvers by planning movement paths that incorporate gradual turns.
5. Rotate Track Pads
Rotating track pads periodically helps distribute wear evenly across the system, extending the lifespan of the tracks. This simple step can significantly reduce replacement costs:
Cost of track pad rotation: About R3,000 per rotation.
6. Operate on Appropriate Terrain
Operating on terrains unsuitable for your track type can accelerate wear. For example:
Rubber tracks: Best for soft ground or urban projects.
Steel tracks: Ideal for rocky or uneven surfaces.
7. Lubricate Moving Parts
Proper lubrication of rollers and idlers minimizes friction, which is crucial for extending track life. Use high-quality grease suitable for heavy equipment:
Cost of grease: Approximately R800 per tub.
Signs Your Excavator Tracks Need Replacement
Even with meticulous maintenance, tracks will eventually wear out. Watch for these warning signs:
Excessive wear on track shoes or pads.
Cracks or splits in rubber tracks.
Abnormal noise during operation.
Frequent derailment or misalignment.
When these issues become evident, it’s time to consider replacing your tracks.
Replacement Options: Why Choose Vikfin
When it’s time to replace your excavator tracks, Vikfin offers high-quality used tracks for a fraction of the cost of new ones. Here’s why Vikfin stands out:
1. Extensive Inventory
We stock a wide range of tracks suitable for 20, 30, and 40-ton excavators. Our inventory includes tracks for leading OEMs such as Komatsu, Volvo, Liebherr, and Sumitomo.
2. Cost-Effectiveness
Used tracks from Vikfin are thoroughly inspected and refurbished to ensure excellent performance. By opting for our used tracks, you can save significantly:
Average cost of new tracks: R180,000 per set.
Average cost of Vikfin’s used tracks: R90,000 per set.
3. Quality Assurance
Our tracks undergo rigorous testing to meet industry standards. We guarantee performance, durability, and compatibility.
4. Expert Guidance
Our team of specialists helps you choose the right tracks for your excavator, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
5. Competitive Pricing
We pride ourselves on offering the lowest prices in South Africa, beating competitors’ rates by up to 15%.
Maximizing the Value of Replacement Tracks
1. Opt for OEM-Compatible Tracks
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) tracks ensure the best fit and performance. Vikfin’s stock includes OEM-compatible tracks for all major excavator brands.
2. Proper Installation
Incorrect installation can lead to premature wear. Always rely on experienced professionals to fit your new tracks:
Installation cost: Around R5,000 for a full set.
3. Maintain New Tracks From Day One
The maintenance tips outlined earlier apply equally to replacement tracks. Start with proper tension, regular cleaning, and avoiding harsh terrain to maximize their lifespan.
Additional Services at Vikfin
Besides supplying high-quality used tracks, Vikfin offers comprehensive services to support your excavator operations:
Track repair: We repair damaged tracks to extend their usability.
Cost of repairs: Starting at R10,000, depending on damage.
Trade-ins: Upgrade your worn-out tracks by trading them in for refurbished ones.
Machine inspections: Schedule regular inspections with our experts to keep your excavator running smoothly.
How to Purchase Tracks From Vikfin
Getting your replacement tracks is simple:
Visit our workshop in Johannesburg for a hands-on inspection of our stock.
Browse our online catalog for detailed specifications and pricing.
Contact us to discuss your needs with our team.
Delivery: We ship tracks nationwide, with affordable transport options starting at R1,500 per delivery.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining and replacing excavator tracks is an investment in the efficiency and longevity of your machinery. By following the maintenance tips in this guide and choosing high-quality used tracks from Vikfin, you can significantly reduce costs while maximizing performance.
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