1. Do not work with a worn track
If the parts of the rolling track are worn, replace them as soon as possible
Worn drive rolls can tear the links of the track and worn rollers can cut the rolling area of the track, causing serious damage.
Wash the entire rolling track with a strong jet of water at the end of each use. The remaining mud can affect the tension mechanism of the track.
2. Avoid tensioning the track too much
Always consult the user manual of the machinery to apply the proper tension.
Many users believe that if they keep the tension of the tracks tight this will increase the lifespan of the track. Wrong. The track will react as an overinflated tire.
Also, a track with not enough tension will lead to damage to the holes in the drive roll teeth.
If you do not have at hand the user manual, you can refer to the rules below.
3. Avoid taking off the tracks during operation
Taking off the tracks during movement can have serious consequences for the lifespan of the track.
An experienced operator can, through a series of manoeuvres, fit back the machinery with a track that has partially come off.
If the track is completely off, you need a flat and stable surface to refit the tracks.
4. Do not go over curbs
Going over curbs puts excessive tension on the tracks, increasing the chances of accidentally de-tracking the machinery.
If the track does not spring off the rollers, the chances of cracking the rubber are high. This will cause a domino effect: pieces of cracked rubber will fall, the inner steel cords will be exposed to moisture and corrode in time, eventually leading to breaking of the track.
5. Avoid sharp objects, even if the track cannot puncture like a pneumatic tire.
These could cause rubber pieces to come off the track and expose the inner cords.
If the terrain is too rough, it is recommended that you use steel tracks.
6. Avoid contaminants
Chemicals, oils, salt, and manure, as well as abrasive mediums, can damage the tracks by deteriorating the rubber.
Avoid these elements if possible. Also, be aware of hydraulic oil and grease that can leak on the tracks from the machinery. If the tracks are exposed to any of these elements, wash them as soon as possible.
7. Match with the machinery's horse-power
Make sure that the tracks you buy parallel your machinery's horse-power. Do not use for loaders tracks recommended only for excavators. They will deteriorate within a very short time.
8. Move forward
Avoid reverse travel on long distances and especially at increased speeds. You will place unnecessary stress on the tracks. These were designed for moving forward.
9. Rotate tracks at regular intervals
The tracks have to be rotated regularly to ensure a uniform wear of the treads. Replace both tracks at the same time. Operating the machinery with a new track and a worn one leads to damages to the final drive.
10. Avoid travel on long distances
Long-distance traveling wear the tracks in an accelerated rhythm. Limiting the distance travelled you will slow the wear and tear. In addition, you should avoid driving on
slopes, fast spinning and at a very tight angle.
11. Avoid exposure to sun
When the machinery is parked for a longer period of time, try to find a shaded area, to avoid direct exposure of tracks to the sun. If this is not possible, cover the tracks with a tarp or canvas. Sunlight is a natural enemy for any rubber product, including rubber tracks. This preventive action may double the operating life of the tracks.
12. Store the tracks correctly
If you don't use them, the tracks must de stored in cool, dry and shaded rooms. Lay them on their side, without applying tension, to avoid folds and crimps. If the tracks are fitted on a machinery that is not being used for a longer period of time, it is recommended that you run the engine once every 2 weeks and move it for at least five minutes to help maintain the flexibility of the tracks and to prevent deforming.