GTW J Tracks:Ensuring Maximum Life for Your J'Tracks

The #1 cause of premature rubber track failure is when rocks, metal, or packed soil or sand gets in between the rubbertracks and the sprocket or idler. This can cause the track to over stress and stretch. When overstressed, the rubber will weaken and tear, the metal crossbars can be pulled out, and the internal metal cables can be cut.

The #2 cause of premature rubber track failure is when the rubber tracks run over a sharp piece of metal or a good size rock, hit a curb or wall, or hit something else that will put enough pressure on the track at the contact point to slightly dislodge one of the internal metal crossbars. Then as the machine is being used, this crossbar moves around inside of the track and rubs against the internal metal cables until they are cut.

This is not the tracks fault, but an accident caused by the operator or the environment the machine is being used on.

1.Avoid premature wear or damage to your tracks caused by working environments such as rocky terrain, gravel, concrete demolition, metal debris; etc... When running over rough surfaces do not make sharp turns.

2. The operator needs to be aware of the type of ground the machine is being used on and not to run into objects or allow things like the bucket to hit the rubber track.

3. Exposure to contaminants such as salt or oil should be avoided and cleaned off immediately if track is exposed. Don’t allow the rubber tracks to sit in water for an extended time period.

4. Prior to fitting your new track, check your drive system components such as the sprockets, rollers, and idlers. These may need replacing. Wear and damage of undercarriage components can affect track performance and durability.

5. Always try to maintain clean drive components thus avoiding damage from foreign substances or mud.

6. Try to minimize exposure to the sun, this helps to reduce the aging process. Normal operating temperature range is between 5 ° F and 130 ° F. If necessary reduce speed under extreme temperatures.

7. Monitor the track tension on a regular basis, check the operators manual for the correct tension for your machine. Make sure the cross member supports are sufficiently spaced to eliminate catching the tracks.

8. To avoid unnecessary wear of track and drive components always:

*Alternate turning from one side to another.

*Drive up or down a slope instead of traversing.

*Avoid making spin or pivot turns.

*Travel with both tracks on a level surface.

*Avoid striking concrete curbs or walls with the sides of the tracks.

9. When purchasing a ramp to load your tracked equipment, or purchasing tracks for an existing ramp, try and ensure the design allows for minimum damage to your tracks. Loading and unloading a machine on to a trailer with sharp areas on the ramps can cause more damage to the tracks than normal useage.