Dozer Grousers on Track Loaders for Slope Work and Muck Handling

[MikePhua]

Track Loader Versatility and the Case for Grousers
Track loaders have long served as multi-role machines in earthmoving, combining the digging ability of excavators with the pushing power of dozers. Their compact footprint and maneuverability make them ideal for pond cleaning, terrace building, and clearing operations. However, in soft terrain or steep slopes, standard track shoes may struggle with traction and flotation. This is where dozer-style grousers—raised ridges welded or bolted onto track shoes—offer a practical upgrade.
Grousers increase grip by biting into soil, clay, or muck, reducing slippage and improving push force. While common on dozers, their application on loaders is less widespread but growing, especially among contractors working in wet or hilly conditions.
Slope Management and Terrace Construction
In terrace building, especially on 2:1 or steeper backslopes, traction is critical. Operators have found success using modified Caterpillar 973 and 977 loaders equipped with dozer blades and grousers. These machines climb tall embankments—often 10 to 15 feet high—and shape terraces from the backside. The blade allows for tilt control, enabling dirt to flow off the edge even on steep grades.
Advantages in slope work:

• Enhanced climbing ability due to increased track grip
  
• Blade tilt mimics bucket control for shaping
  
• Reduced need for separate dozer on site
  
• Ability to switch between blade and bucket depending on task
  

One terrace crew in Missouri retrofitted their loader with a wide dozer blade and single-bar grousers, allowing them to build terraces efficiently without repositioning equipment. The loader’s ability to climb and shape simultaneously saved time and reduced fuel consumption.
Pond Cleaning and Muck Pushing
In pond excavation, pushing muck downhill to an excavator or pit requires flotation and traction. A track loader with grousers can move through saturated ground more effectively than a wheeled loader or standard track setup. The grousers prevent the machine from sinking or spinning when backing uphill for another pass.
Recommendations for muck work:

• Use wide track shoes with single-bar grousers for balance between grip and flotation
  
• Consider a quick-attach blade for pushing large volumes of soft material
  
• Maintain clean undercarriage to prevent buildup and loss of traction
  
• Avoid sharp turns in saturated ground to reduce track stress
  

A Kansas-based operator reported that his loader, equipped with grousers and a custom blade, could push muck to a waiting 330 excavator with minimal slippage. The setup allowed continuous operation without needing a second machine to assist.
Blade Conversion and Attachment Flexibility
Many contractors retrofit track loaders with dozer blades using quick-attach systems. This allows switching between bucket and blade depending on the job. Blades offer better control for shaping and pushing, while buckets remain essential for loading and digging.
Blade conversion tips:

• Use a hydraulic tilt blade for slope shaping
  
• Reinforce mounting points to handle lateral stress
  
• Ensure compatibility with loader lift arms and hydraulic flow
  
• Maintain backup bucket for material handling tasks
  

Some operators fabricate custom blades from retired dozer components, adapting them to loader frames. While not factory-standard, these setups can perform well with proper engineering and welding.
Grouser Design and Installation Considerations
Grousers come in various styles:

• Single-bar: Best for general traction and minimal soil disturbance
  
• Double-bar: Increased grip but more aggressive on finished surfaces
  
• Ice cleats: Specialized for frozen ground and steep inclines
  

Installation methods:

• Weld-on: Permanent and durable, but harder to replace
  
• Bolt-on: Easier to swap or adjust, suitable for seasonal use
  
• Clip-on: Temporary solutions for short-term traction needs
  

When installing grousers, ensure even spacing and alignment to prevent track imbalance. Monitor wear regularly, especially on hard surfaces where grousers can degrade quickly.
Conclusion
Dozer-style grousers on track loaders offer a practical solution for contractors working in steep, soft, or saturated terrain. Whether building terraces, cleaning ponds, or clearing land, the added traction and control can transform a loader into a slope-capable workhorse. With blade conversions and flexible attachment systems, these machines can adapt to a wide range of tasks—proving that with the right setup, a loader can do more than just load. It can climb, shape, and push with confidence.