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Writer's pictureRALPH COPE
2 days ago4 min read

How to Identify and Replace Worn-Out Excavator Tracks




Excavator tracks are the backbone of any tracked machine, providing the essential grip, stability, and mobility needed to conquer a variety of terrains. Whether you're moving earth on a construction site or tearing through dense forestry, the tracks bear the brunt of the machine's work. Over time, even the sturdiest steel tracks succumb to wear and tear, affecting performance, efficiency, and safety. This guide will help you identify signs of worn-out excavator tracks and explain why replacing them with used OEM tracks from Vikfin is a cost-effective and reliable solution.


Why Excavator Tracks Matter

Steel tracks are vital for:

  1. Traction and Mobility: Allowing the excavator to move effortlessly across rough, uneven, or muddy terrain.

  2. Weight Distribution: Spreading the weight of the machine evenly to prevent sinking into soft ground.

  3. Stability: Providing a secure base for lifting and digging operations.

Damaged or worn tracks compromise these functions, leading to downtime, increased maintenance costs, and even accidents.


Signs of Worn-Out Excavator Tracks

Knowing when to replace your tracks is crucial to avoid unexpected breakdowns. Here’s what to look for:

1. Excessive Wear on Track Links and Bushings

  • What to Look For: Bushings or track links appear worn or deformed. The bushing's outer surface may also show signs of flattening or excessive wear.

  • Impact: This reduces the track's ability to maintain proper alignment, causing "track walking" and uneven movement.

2. Cracked or Bent Track Pads

  • What to Look For: Visible cracks, bent edges, or uneven surfaces on the track pads.

  • Impact: Compromises grip and can lead to instability during operation.

3. Stretched Tracks

  • What to Look For: Tracks appear loose or stretched, and adjusting them becomes challenging.

  • Impact: Causes the tracks to disengage from the sprockets or idlers, leading to operational delays.

4. Abnormal Wear on Sprockets and Rollers

  • What to Look For: Uneven or excessive wear on the sprockets or rollers. Teeth may appear rounded or sharp.

  • Impact: Accelerates track wear and affects machine stability.

5. Rust or Corrosion

  • What to Look For: Discoloration or flaky rust patches, especially if the machine operates in wet or humid conditions.

  • Impact: Weakens the structural integrity of the tracks, leading to early failure.

6. Uneven Track Wear

  • What to Look For: One side of the track shows significantly more wear than the other.

  • Impact: Indicates alignment issues or uneven weight distribution, which can worsen over time.

7. Frequent Track Adjustments

  • What to Look For: Constantly tightening or adjusting the tracks.

  • Impact: A sign that the tracks or their components are nearing the end of their life cycle.


Steps to Replace Worn-Out Excavator Tracks

Once you’ve identified that your tracks need replacing, here’s how to go about it:

1. Inspect the Undercarriage

Before replacing the tracks, inspect the entire undercarriage system, including sprockets, rollers, idlers, and bushings. Replacing worn tracks without addressing other damaged components may lead to faster wear of the new tracks.

2. Choose the Right Replacement Tracks

Consider the following when selecting replacement tracks:

  • Compatibility: Ensure the tracks match your excavator model and size.

  • Quality: Opt for high-quality used OEM tracks, such as those from Vikfin, to ensure durability.

  • Cost: Used OEM tracks are significantly more affordable than new ones without compromising performance.

3. Remove the Old Tracks

  • Park the excavator on a flat surface.

  • Elevate the track off the ground using the boom or a jack.

  • Release the track tension by loosening the grease fitting on the track adjuster.

  • Carefully remove the old tracks with the help of a pry bar or a crane.

4. Install the New Tracks

  • Position the replacement tracks around the undercarriage.

  • Ensure proper alignment with the sprockets, idlers, and rollers.

  • Tighten the tracks to the correct tension using the track adjuster.

5. Test the Installation

After installing the tracks, test the excavator by moving it forward and backward. Check for smooth operation and proper alignment.


Why Choose Vikfin for Used Steel Tracks?

Vikfin specializes in high-quality used and refurbished OEM excavator parts, including steel tracks. Here’s why they’re the go-to choice for replacements:

1. Extensive Stock

Vikfin has a large inventory of used steel tracks for 20-ton, 30-ton, and 40-ton excavators. This ensures you’ll find a perfect match for your machine, regardless of the make or model.

2. Cost-Effective Solutions

Why spend a fortune on brand-new tracks when you can get used OEM tracks that perform just as well at a fraction of the cost? Vikfin guarantees unbeatable prices without compromising quality.

3. Expert Knowledge

With years of industry experience, Vikfin’s team can guide you in choosing the right tracks for your excavator, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

4. Sustainability

Opting for used tracks is an environmentally friendly choice. By reusing OEM parts, you’re reducing waste and contributing to a circular economy.

5. Stringent Quality Checks

Every track at Vikfin undergoes rigorous inspection to ensure it meets OEM standards. From material integrity to wear levels, they leave no stone unturned.


Tips for Extending the Life of Your Excavator Tracks

Once you’ve replaced your worn tracks, follow these tips to maximize their lifespan:

  1. Perform Regular Inspections: Check for signs of wear, misalignment, and damage weekly.

  2. Keep Tracks Clean: Remove dirt, mud, and debris after each use to prevent accelerated wear.

  3. Monitor Tension: Keep the tracks at the manufacturer-recommended tension to avoid stretching or loosening.

  4. Rotate Tracks: Swap left and right tracks periodically to ensure even wear.

  5. Avoid Overloading: Operate within your excavator’s weight and capacity limits.

  6. Drive Carefully: Minimize sharp turns, sudden stops, and high-speed travel, which can strain the tracks.


Final Thoughts

Worn-out excavator tracks don’t just hamper performance—they can also lead to costly repairs and safety hazards. By identifying the signs of wear early and replacing your tracks with high-quality used OEM options from Vikfin, you can save money, reduce downtime, and keep your projects on track.


Ready to upgrade your excavator tracks? Contact Vikfin today to explore their wide range of competitively priced, high-quality used steel tracks. With Vikfin, you’re not just buying parts—you’re investing in reliability and peace of mind.


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