The excavator track group is one of the most critical components of heavy equipment, ensuring stability, mobility, and efficiency on construction sites, mining areas, and industrial projects. Since excavators often work in rugged terrains and under extreme conditions, the track group is subjected to significant wear and tear. If not maintained properly, track group problems can lead to downtime, reduced performance, and costly repairs.
In this blog, we’ll explore the common excavator track group issues and practical tips on how to fix or prevent them.
The excavator track group refers to the entire track assembly that includes track shoes, chains, sprockets, idlers, rollers, and other connecting components. It is responsible for distributing the machine’s weight evenly across the ground, providing traction and allowing the excavator to operate smoothly on different surfaces. Because of its constant exposure to dirt, rocks, and uneven terrain, the track group is prone to various mechanical issues.
One of the most frequent problems in excavator track groups is excessive wear on the track shoes, chains, or rollers. Continuous friction against rocky or abrasive surfaces accelerates deterioration.
Causes:
Working on rough or uneven terrain
Lack of regular lubrication
Overloading the excavator
How to Fix:
Inspect the track shoes and chains regularly for cracks or thinning metal.
Replace worn-out components immediately to prevent further damage.
Use track guards to reduce side wear.
A loose or misaligned track is not only inefficient but can also be dangerous. It can slip off during operation, causing delays and potential accidents.
Causes:
Improper track tension adjustment
Worn sprockets or rollers
Excessive dirt buildup in the track assembly
How to Fix:
Check and adjust track tension according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Clean the track assembly regularly to prevent debris buildup.
Replace worn sprockets and rollers that cause misalignment.
The track chain is held together by links and pins. Over time, they may break or bend under heavy loads, resulting in uneven movement or total breakdown.
Causes:
Heavy impacts on rocky terrain
Operating with over-tightened tracks
Corrosion due to moisture exposure
How to Fix:
Replace damaged pins and links with OEM-quality parts.
Avoid over-tightening the track tension.
Store equipment in a dry environment to reduce rust and corrosion.
The sprockets are responsible for driving the track chains. Excessive wear or broken sprocket teeth can reduce traction and put strain on the excavator’s engine.
Causes:
Misaligned or stretched track chains
Continuous use without proper maintenance
Overloading the machine
How to Fix:
Regularly inspect sprockets for missing or worn teeth.
Replace sprockets when wear becomes visible, preferably in pairs with the track chains.
Maintain proper track tension to prevent premature sprocket damage.
Idlers and rollers help guide and support the excavator track group. If they fail, the machine’s stability and movement will be compromised.
Causes:
Poor lubrication leading to bearing failure
Excessive dirt, mud, or stones damaging rollers
Lack of preventive maintenance
How to Fix:
Grease rollers and idlers regularly as per manufacturer guidelines.
Replace cracked or seized rollers immediately.
Keep the track assembly clean to avoid blockages.
Over time, excavator track chains may elongate due to constant stress, leading to improper fit and reduced efficiency.
Causes:
Continuous operation under heavy load
Lack of proper lubrication
Natural wear from long-term use
How to Fix:
Measure chain pitch regularly to detect stretching.
Adjust or replace stretched chains before they damage other components.
Use high-quality chains designed for heavy-duty applications.
Regular Inspections: Conduct daily checks before operation to identify early signs of damage.
Proper Cleaning: Remove mud, stones, and debris after each use to prevent buildup.
Lubrication: Ensure that rollers, pins, and idlers are well-lubricated to minimize friction.
Track Adjustment: Keep track tension within recommended limits—neither too loose nor too tight.
Timely Replacement: Don’t delay replacing worn-out parts, as it may lead to costlier repairs later.
The excavator track group is the backbone of your machine’s mobility and stability. Ignoring small issues like loose tracks, worn sprockets, or damaged rollers can quickly escalate into major mechanical failures and unplanned downtime. By regularly inspecting, maintaining, and replacing worn parts, you can extend the lifespan of your track group and keep your excavator performing at its best.
Investing in quality track group components and proper maintenance not only improves machine efficiency but also reduces long-term operating costs. With proactive care, your excavator will remain a reliable workhorse across all terrains.
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.