Why Are Tracks On My 963 Skid Steer Shifting To The Left?

[MikePhua]

Skid steers and tracked machines like the Caterpillar 963 are widely used for their versatility and ability to work in tough conditions. However, one common issue that can arise with tracked equipment is when the tracks start shifting or drifting to one side—often to the left. This issue can not only impact the performance of the machine but also cause undue wear on the track and undercarriage components, leading to costly repairs. This article delves into the possible causes of this problem and offers guidance on how to identify and address it.
Understanding the Caterpillar 963 and Its Track System
The Caterpillar 963 is a mid-sized track loader, well-suited for a variety of tasks such as earth moving, lifting, and material handling. It is equipped with a durable undercarriage system and tracks designed to provide excellent traction and stability. Like most track-driven machines, the 963 relies on a complex combination of rollers, sprockets, and track tensioners to ensure smooth movement.
Tracked vehicles are designed to distribute weight evenly across the ground, providing stability and reducing the likelihood of sinking in soft or uneven terrain. However, if the tracks begin to shift or skew to one side, it could be indicative of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Common Causes for Tracks Shifting to the Left
When the tracks on a Caterpillar 963 (or any other tracked machine) shift to the left, it’s usually a sign of a mechanical or alignment issue. Several potential factors could be contributing to this problem, including:
1. Track Tension Imbalance
One of the most common reasons for tracks shifting to one side is improper tension on the track. If the tension on the left and right sides of the track system is uneven, the track may pull to the side with less tension.

• Solution: Check the track tension and adjust it according to the manufacturer’s specifications. This involves inspecting the tension on both sides and ensuring they are balanced. The tracks should have adequate slack but not be too loose, as this can cause unnecessary wear and misalignment.
  

2. Worn or Misaligned Track Rollers
The track rollers help guide the movement of the tracks and keep them in alignment. If the rollers become worn or misaligned, they may cause the tracks to shift to one side. This is particularly noticeable if one side of the roller system is more worn than the other.

• Solution: Inspect the track rollers for signs of wear or damage. If any rollers appear damaged or misaligned, they should be replaced or re-aligned. Additionally, check for any debris or obstructions that may be causing friction against the rollers.
  

3. Uneven or Worn Sprockets
The sprockets are the gears that engage with the tracks to provide movement. If a sprocket is worn unevenly, it can cause the track to shift to one side. This is especially true if the teeth on the sprocket are damaged, broken, or excessively worn down on one side.

• Solution: Examine the sprockets for wear. If they are found to be damaged, they may need to be replaced. Regular inspection and maintenance of the sprockets are key to ensuring that the track system operates smoothly.
  

4. Damaged Track Links
Track links are the individual sections that make up the entire track. Over time, these links can become damaged, either from excessive wear or due to impact with debris. If a track link becomes bent or broken, it can cause the track to pull to one side.

• Solution: Inspect the individual track links for any damage. If any track links are found to be bent, broken, or excessively worn, they should be replaced immediately. In some cases, the entire track may need to be replaced if the damage is extensive.
  

5. Faulty Idler or Track Tensioner
The idler and track tensioner are responsible for maintaining the correct tension in the tracks. If either of these components is malfunctioning, it could cause the tracks to shift. A faulty track tensioner can result in one side of the track being tighter than the other, which would cause it to pull in that direction.

• Solution: Inspect the track tensioner and idler components for proper function. If either component appears to be damaged or malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced. A functioning tensioner and idler are essential for maintaining proper track alignment.
  

6. Uneven Weight Distribution or Load
Uneven weight distribution across the machine can also lead to track shifting. For example, if the load on the machine is not evenly distributed or if the machine is operating on sloped ground, it may cause one side of the track to carry more weight than the other. Over time, this can cause the track to shift to the side with more weight.

• Solution: Ensure that the load is evenly distributed when using the machine. If operating on sloped terrain, try to keep the load balanced and avoid overloading one side of the machine. If the track continues to shift despite balanced loading, further inspection of the undercarriage components is needed.
  

How to Address and Prevent Track Shifting Issues
To prevent track shifting problems from reoccurring, regular maintenance and early detection are key. Here are some steps you can take to address and prevent this issue:
1. Regular Track Inspections
Make it a habit to inspect the tracks and undercarriage components regularly. Look for signs of wear on the track rollers, sprockets, and idlers. Check the track tension and ensure that both sides are balanced.
2. Perform Track Adjustments
Adjust the track tension periodically to ensure that it is evenly distributed. This can be done by adjusting the tensioner or track bolts according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
3. Replace Worn Components
If you identify worn or damaged components such as track rollers, sprockets, or track links, replace them as soon as possible. Continuing to operate the machine with damaged parts can cause further misalignment and lead to more expensive repairs down the line.
4. Monitor Load Distribution
Be mindful of the weight distribution when loading the machine and ensure it is evenly balanced. If working on a slope, be cautious of how the machine’s load is distributed, as uneven loading can exacerbate track shifting problems.
5. Maintain Proper Lubrication
Ensure that all moving parts of the undercarriage are well-lubricated. This will help reduce friction and wear on components like the rollers, sprockets, and tensioners, preventing track misalignment and shifting.
Conclusion
Track shifting to one side, such as the left side on the Caterpillar 963, can cause significant operational inefficiencies and lead to premature wear of undercarriage components. Regular inspection and maintenance, including ensuring proper track tension, replacing worn parts, and monitoring load distribution, are essential for preventing this issue. By addressing the problem early on and following best maintenance practices, you can prolong the life of your tracks and improve the performance and safety of your machine.