The Excavator Track Group is one of the most critical components of any crawler excavator. It directly impacts machine stability, traction, and efficiency, especially when operating in tough terrains. Whether you are a contractor, fleet manager, or an individual operator, maintaining your excavator’s track group ensures longer equipment life and reduced downtime.
Neglecting track group inspections can lead to uneven wear, high repair costs, or even sudden failures during operation. Fortunately, you don’t always need a technician for routine inspections—you can carry out a DIY Excavator Track Group inspection using a structured checklist.
In this blog, we’ll break down the inspection process step-by-step so you can keep your excavator performing at its best.
The Excavator Track Group refers to the complete undercarriage system that allows an excavator to move across uneven and rugged surfaces. It typically includes:
Track chains and links
Track shoes (grouser plates)
Sprockets
Rollers (top and bottom)
Idlers
Track adjusters
Since the track group carries the weight of the entire machine, it is prone to constant wear and tear. Regular inspections help identify problems early and extend the service life of the undercarriage.
Routine inspection of your excavator track group provides several benefits:
Cost Savings: Detecting minor issues before they become major prevents expensive replacements.
Safety: A damaged or worn track group increases the risk of accidents on-site.
Performance: Properly maintained track groups provide smoother operations and better traction.
Longevity: Increases the overall lifespan of the excavator.
Here’s a practical checklist you can follow to keep your excavator’s track group in top shape:
Start with a basic inspection by walking around the machine. Look for:
Visible cracks or bends on track shoes.
Excessive wear or missing bolts.
Oil or grease leaks near idlers and rollers.
Misalignment of tracks.
Inspect track shoes for:
Uneven wear or broken grousers.
Loose or missing bolts.
Bent or damaged shoes that may affect traction.
Tip: Replace worn-out shoes in sets for uniform performance.
Check for:
Stretching or elongation of chains.
Excessive wear on bushings and pins.
Dry or cracked seals that could cause lubrication loss.
Examine sprockets closely because they engage directly with track links. Look for:
Hooked, broken, or sharp sprocket teeth.
Uneven tooth wear indicating misalignment.
Loose bolts or cracks around the sprocket hub.
Rollers bear the weight of the machine and guide the track chain. Inspect for:
Oil leaks from seals.
Flat spots or excessive wear.
Loose or wobbly rollers that affect track alignment.
Idlers maintain proper track tension. Check for:
Cracks, chips, or dents.
Uneven wear across the surface.
Oil leaks from the bearing housing.
Improper track tension is a common cause of accelerated wear.
Too Tight: Leads to stress on sprockets, links, and rollers.
Too Loose: Causes derailing or uneven wear.
Check the manufacturer’s specifications and adjust track tension accordingly.
Grease adjusters help maintain track tension. Inspect them for:
Leaks around the grease fitting.
Lack of grease causing improper tension.
Damage or blockage in the adjustment cylinder.
Lastly, inspect the undercarriage frame for:
Cracks, dents, or bent sections.
Excessive mud, debris, or rock buildup that can accelerate wear.
Rust or corrosion, especially in older machines.
Clean Daily: Remove mud, rocks, and debris from the undercarriage after every shift.
Lubricate Regularly: Proper greasing prevents premature wear of moving parts.
Operate Smartly: Avoid unnecessary high-speed turns and prolonged work on slopes, as they strain the track group.
Replace in Pairs: Always replace track shoes, sprockets, or rollers in pairs to ensure balanced wear.
The Excavator Track Group is the backbone of your machine’s mobility. With regular DIY inspections, you can identify issues early, reduce downtime, and maximize performance. By following this simple track group inspection checklist, you don’t just save money—you extend the lifespan of your equipment and ensure safe, efficient operations on-site.
Remember, a well-maintained track group means a reliable excavator. Make inspections a routine part of your maintenance schedule, and your machine will reward you with years of dependable service.
TEAM Excavator & Dozer Parts is one of the largest manufacturers of heavy construction, mining and earth moving equipment parts, such as Excavators & Bulldozers, in Southern India.