The best rubber track pattern depends on how and where you use your machine. Mud, clay, turf, gravel, concrete, and snow all place different demands on a track. A more aggressive pattern usually gives better traction, while a smoother or turf-friendly pattern may reduce ground disturbance and provide a smoother ride.
Track Pattern
8 questionsRubber track patterns are designed for different working conditions. Some patterns are built for traction in mud or loose soil, while others are designed for smoother travel, less vibration, or reduced damage on finished surfaces. The right pattern should match your jobsite, machine type, and daily use.
For mud, a more open and aggressive tread pattern is usually best such as the C-Lug and Z-Lug. These patterns help the track bite into soft ground and allow mud to clear from the tread more easily. If you work in wet clay, mud, or loose soil often, traction should be a top priority.
No rubber track is truly “ice-proof,” but the Z-Lug pattern has good surface contact and strong biting edges to help improve control. Operators should use extra caution on ice, frozen ground, and packed snow because rubber tracks can still slip in slick conditions.
Aggressive tracks can wear faster on hard surfaces like concrete, asphalt, and gravel, especially if the machine is making sharp turns. They are built for traction, not necessarily for the smoothest wear on finished surfaces. Matching the pattern to the jobsite helps extend track life.
Non-marking rubber tracks are worth it when you need to protect finished surfaces, indoor floors, decorative concrete, or sensitive work areas. They are designed to reduce black marks, but they may not be the best choice for every jobsite, especially highly abrasive or rough terrain.
Turf-friendly rubber tracks are designed to reduce ground disturbance on grass, landscaping, and softer finished areas. They typically use a less aggressive tread pattern to help limit tearing, rutting, and surface damage while still allowing the machine to move efficiently.
The Block pattern is recommended for hard surfaces. The block pattern has more rubber contact with the ground and is less aggressive. This can help reduce vibration, improve ride comfort, and slow down wear on concrete, asphalt, and packed gravel.
Fitment and Sizing
9 questionsThe best way to confirm your rubber track size is to check the size stamped on the inside of your current track. You can also verify by measuring the width, pitch, and number of links. If your machine has multiple possible sizes, confirm your machine model, serial number, and current track size before ordering.
The track size is often stamped or molded into the inside of the rubber track. It may appear as a series of numbers, such as 450x86x60. If the stamp is worn off, you can measure the track manually by checking the width, pitch, and link count.
Rubber track numbers usually show the width, pitch, and number of links. For example, 450x86x60 means the track is 450 mm wide, has an 86 mm pitch, and has 60 links.
Yes, two machines can sometimes use the same rubber track size, but that does not always mean the track will fit both machines correctly. Fitment can depend on the machine model, undercarriage design, sprocket style, serial number, and track guide setup.
Some machines have different track options depending on serial number breaks or production changes. Verifying the serial number helps make sure the correct track size, pitch, and guide style are ordered the first time.
Measure the width across the track from one outside edge to the other. Measure the pitch from the center of one drive lug to the center of the next drive lug. Count the total number of links or drive lugs around the full track.
The safest way is to match the width of your current track or confirm the correct size by machine make, model, and serial number. Some machines can accept more than one width, but changing width may affect stability, flotation, clearance, and performance.
Narrow tracks are often better for tighter spaces, firmer ground, and lower ground contact. Wider tracks provide more flotation, spread the machine weight over a larger area, and can help reduce sinking in soft ground. However, wider tracks may have more side stress in tight turns and may not fit every machine setup.
Some rubber tracks are directional and should be installed with the tread facing the correct way for proper traction and wear. If the tread pattern has a clear “V” or angled design, the point of the pattern usually faces forward when viewed from the top of the track. Always check the track design and machine orientation before installation.
Wear and Replacement
7 questionsRubber tracks should be replaced when they show major cracking, deep cuts, exposed cables, missing tread sections, severe uneven wear, or repeated derailment issues. If the track no longer holds tension properly or the internal structure is damaged, replacement is usually needed.
Small surface cracks can happen over time, especially from age, sunlight, weather, or normal use. Deep cracks, cracks exposing cables, or cracks that spread across the track structure are more serious and may mean the track needs to be replaced.
Chunking and tearing can be caused by sharp debris, rocks, rebar, demolition material, rough terrain, aggressive turning, improper tension, or worn undercarriage parts. Operating on harsh surfaces can shorten track life, especially if the track is already damaged or overstressed.
Uneven tread wear is often caused by worn sprockets, bad rollers, damaged idlers, improper track tension, misalignment, or frequent turning in one direction. It can also happen when the machine is used heavily on hard or abrasive surfaces.
You can replace one track if the other track is still in good condition. However, if both tracks are worn, replacing them as a pair is usually best for balanced traction, even wear, and smoother machine operation.
Dry rot usually appears as small cracks, brittle rubber, faded areas, or checking across the surface of the track. Severe dry rot can cause the rubber to split, weaken, or separate, especially when the track is under load.
One track may wear faster because of machine alignment issues, worn undercarriage parts, uneven tension, operating habits, or repeated turning in the same direction. It is also common for wear to differ if one side of the machine carries more stress during daily use.
Track Tension
4 questionsA track may walk off because it is too loose, the tensioner is not holding pressure, the sprocket is worn, the idlers or rollers are damaged, or debris is packed into the undercarriage. Repeated track derailment is usually a sign that tension and undercarriage components need to be inspected.
Yes. Track tension can feel different depending on mud, sand, clay, gravel, or hard ground. Packed material in the undercarriage can tighten the track, while soft or uneven ground may increase the chance of derailment if the track is too loose.
Yes. Tracks that are too tight can increase wear on sprockets, rollers, idlers, bearings, and drive motors. Tracks that are too loose can come off the machine, damage lugs, and cause uneven wear.
Safely raise the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions, then measure the sag at the recommended point, usually near the center of the track frame. The correct amount of sag depends on the machine, so always compare your measurement to the manufacturer’s recommended specification.
Undercarriage
9 questionsIf the sprockets are worn, hooked, sharp, or uneven, they should be replaced when installing new tracks. Worn sprockets can quickly damage a new track and shorten its life.
Worn sprockets do not mesh correctly with the drive lugs on the track. This can cause skipping, tearing, uneven lug wear, vibration, and premature track failure.
Worn idlers may show flat spots, grooves, wobbling, leaking seals, bearing noise, or uneven contact with the track. If the idler cannot help maintain proper track alignment and tension, it should be inspected or replaced.
Bad rollers can create uneven pressure on the track, cause vibration, damage the inside surface, and lead to uneven wear. A seized, loose, leaking, or flat-spotted roller can shorten the life of a new track.
Inspect sprockets, front idlers, rear idlers, bottom rollers, top rollers if equipped, tensioners, bearings, seals, and the track frame. Also check for packed debris, bent components, sharp edges, or anything that could rub the new track.
Track rubbing can be caused by worn rollers, damaged idlers, incorrect track size, improper tension, misalignment, or bent undercarriage components. Rubbing should be corrected quickly because it can damage the track and the machine.
Yes. Worn, seized, or flat-spotted rollers can cause vibration, noise, uneven movement, and a rougher ride. They can also create extra stress on the track and other undercarriage parts.
The undercarriage should be cleaned regularly, especially after working in mud, clay, sand, gravel, snow, or debris-heavy jobsites. Cleaning at the end of the day helps prevent packed material from increasing tension and wearing down components.
Installing new tracks on worn undercarriage parts can cause premature wear, poor tension, derailment, vibration, and damage to the new tracks. A new track will only perform as well as the components it runs on.
Installation
7 questionsMany operators can install rubber tracks themselves with the right tools, safe lifting equipment, and basic mechanical experience. However, tracks are heavy and installation can be dangerous, so follow the machine manufacturer’s safety instructions or contact a professional if you are unsure. (Rubber Track Install Tool)
Common tools may include a grease gun, socket set, pry bar, lifting equipment, jack stands or blocking rated for the machine, and hand tools for the tensioner. The exact tools depend on the machine and track style. You can also use the Rubber Track Install and Removal Tool
You may need proper lifting equipment and sturdy blocking to safely raise and support the machine. Some machines may also require specific tools to release tension or move the track into position.
Yes. The machine usually needs to be safely lifted so the track can sag and move off the undercarriage. Always follow the manufacturer’s lifting instructions and never work under a machine that is not properly supported.
Yes, the tensioner should be checked and greased as needed during installation. The tensioner helps set proper track tension, so it should move correctly and hold pressure.
Before installing a new track, check the sprockets, idlers, rollers, tensioner, track frame, and overall undercarriage condition. Also confirm the new track size, pitch, width, and link count match the machine.
Yes. Track tension should be released before removing the old track. This allows the track to loosen enough to come off the sprocket, idlers, and rollers safely.
Use and Maintenance
4 questionsRemove mud, clay, rocks, sticks, and debris from the tracks and undercarriage. Pay close attention to the sprocket, rollers, idlers, and tension area. Keeping the undercarriage clean helps reduce wear and keeps tension from becoming too tight due to packed material.
Cold weather can make rubber less flexible, especially if the track is older or already dry-rotted. Letting the machine warm up and avoiding sudden aggressive operation in freezing conditions can help reduce stress on the tracks.
Concrete, asphalt, sharp rock, gravel, demolition debris, rebar, and scrap material are some of the hardest surfaces on rubber tracks. These conditions can increase cuts, chunking, and tread wear.
Yes, whenever possible. Sharp rocks, metal, rebar, stumps, and construction debris can cut, tear, or puncture rubber tracks. Keeping the jobsite clear of debris can help extend track life.
Ordering and Shipping
11 questionsAftermarket rubber tracks are sold individually unless the product page specifically states that they are sold as a pair or set. Please confirm the quantity shown on the product page before ordering.
United Skid Tracks rubber tracks are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for 24 months from the date of purchase, and apply to the original purchaser. Full replacement coverage applies for the first 200 operating hours. After 200 operating hours, warranty coverage is prorated based on hours used, for the remainder of the 24-month warranty period. If a manufacturer defect is confirmed, United Skid Tracks will provide a replacement track. This warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse, improper installation, improper application, lack of maintenance, abnormal operating conditions, or normal wear and tear. Undercarriage Warranty Information United Skid Tracks undercarriage parts are warranted to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for 12 months from the date of purchase. This warranty applies to the original purchaser and covers any undercarriage part that becomes unserviceable in its intended application due to a manufacturer defect. If a manufacturer defect is confirmed, United Skid Tracks will provide a replacement part. This warranty does not cover damage due to misuse, improper installation, improper application, lack of maintenance, abnormal operating conditions, or normal wear and tear.
Orders placed before 2 PM Eastern Time should ship the same day Monday–Friday. Ship time is typically 2 to 3 business days.
Yes, you can pick up from the warehouse. Please call 800-966-6640 before placing the order.
You can call 800-966-6640 or send an email to service@unitedskidtracks.com. Warranty claims are typically processed within 2 to 3 business days.
The day after your order ships, you will be sent tracking by email and text message. Tracking can also be checked directly on the website. All that is needed is your order number and email address used at time of checkout. You can also send an email to service@unitedskidtracks.com or call 800-966-6640. Freight carriers might call to set up appointments.
High-quality aftermarket rubber tracks can be a durable, dependable alternative to dealer tracks when they are built to the correct size and used in the right application. The biggest factors in track life are proper fitment, correct tension, undercarriage condition, jobsite conditions, and operator habits. A quality aftermarket track can perform very well when it is matched correctly to the machine and maintained properly. Our aftermarket tracks come with a two-year warranty.
OEM tracks are supplied through the original equipment manufacturer’s dealer network. Aftermarket rubber tracks are replacement tracks made to fit the same machines but sold outside of the dealer channel. Aftermarket tracks are often a more cost-effective option, but fitment, quality, tread pattern, and warranty can vary by supplier. Always confirm the correct size, pitch, link count, and machine fitment before ordering.
Sometimes, yes. Many machines use the same model name across different years or serial number ranges, and those machines may not always take the same track. The serial number helps confirm the correct track size, guide style, pitch, and fitment before the order ships. If your machine has multiple possible track options, having the serial number is one of the best ways to avoid ordering the wrong track.
If you need to return your order, contact United Skid Tracks before sending anything back. Returns need to be unused, uninstalled, and returned within the allowed return window. Once the item is received and inspected, the refund or credit will be processed according to the return policy. If the return is due to a United Skid Tracks error, we will help make it right. If the wrong item was ordered by mistake, return freight may be the customer’s responsibility.
If you ordered the wrong track or part, contact United Skid Tracks as soon as possible. Do not install or use the item. We can help review your machine information, track size, and serial number to determine the correct replacement. If the item is unused and eligible for return, we can help with the return or exchange process according to the return policy.
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