Should You Choose Steel or Rubber Tracks for a 12,000 lb Mini Excavator

[MikePhua]

For rural excavation work involving trenching, garage foundations, septic systems, and occasional grave digging, steel tracks offer durability and traction, while rubber tracks provide turf protection and smoother travel. The Gehl 603 mini excavator, with its standard pattern changer and plumbed stick, stands out as a versatile option—but the choice of track type depends heavily on terrain, job frequency, and transport logistics.
Gehl 603 Overview
The Gehl 603 is a compact excavator designed for mid-range digging and utility work. Gehl, founded in Wisconsin in 1859 and now part of the Manitou Group, has built a reputation for reliable compact equipment. The 603 model weighs approximately 12,000 pounds and features a cab with heat and air (C/H/A), a standard pattern changer for operator preference, and auxiliary hydraulics for attachments.
Priced around $66,000 with steel tracks, the 603 competes with similar models from Caterpillar, Case, Deere, Komatsu, Kubota, and Volvo. Its compact width under 8 feet makes it suitable for trailer transport and tight access jobs.
Terminology Notes

• Pattern Changer: A switch that allows operators to toggle between ISO and SAE joystick control layouts.
  
• Plumbed Stick: Hydraulic lines routed to the end of the boom for powering attachments like thumbs or augers.
  
• Steel Tracks: Metal track shoes offering superior durability and traction on rocky or abrasive terrain.
  
• Rubber Tracks: Composite tracks designed to minimize surface damage and improve ride comfort on paved or landscaped areas.
  

Steel vs Rubber Tracks in Real-World Use

• Steel Tracks:
  • Ideal for rocky, root-filled, or debris-laden environments.
    
  • Resist tearing and wear from buried metal or sharp terrain.
    
  • Better suited for pushing, grading, or light dozing.
    
  • Require plywood or mats for turf protection, especially on lawns.
    
• Rubber Tracks:
  

• Minimize turf damage and are preferred in urban or landscaped areas.
  
• Quieter and smoother on hard surfaces.
  
• Vulnerable to tearing when used aggressively or on abrasive ground.
  
• Often require mats anyway, reducing their advantage in some rural settings.
  

In rural Pennsylvania, an operator found that rubber tracks were frequently torn when used for light dozing or trenching through rocky soil. He noted that plywood was needed regardless, making steel tracks a more practical choice. In contrast, a landscaper in New York preferred rubber tracks for cemetery work, where turf preservation was critical and terrain was predictable.
Competitive Models and Considerations

• Caterpillar 305E2: Offers strong resale value and dealer support, but may be priced higher.
  
• Kubota KX057-5: Known for smooth hydraulics and compact design, with rubber tracks standard.
  
• Case CX57C: Offers DOC-only emissions system and simplified maintenance.
  
• Volvo EC60E: Features advanced cab ergonomics and fuel efficiency.
  

Used machines in the 20–30K range may offer better value for occasional use, especially if hours are low and maintenance records are available.
Recommendations for Buyers

• Assess Terrain First: If rocks, roots, and buried debris are common, steel tracks are more durable.
  
• Consider Turf Sensitivity: For cemetery, residential, or landscaped work, rubber tracks may be required.
  
• Factor in Transport Width: Stay under 8 feet for trailer compatibility and road regulations.
  
• Demo Before Purchase: Test control feel, visibility, and hydraulic responsiveness.
  
• Explore Used Options: Low-hour machines can offer significant savings without sacrificing performance.
  

Final Thoughts
The Gehl 603 offers a solid platform for rural excavation, but the choice between steel and rubber tracks should be driven by jobsite realities, not just dealer recommendations. Steel tracks excel in durability and traction, while rubber tracks protect surfaces and reduce vibration. For operators juggling turf-sensitive jobs with rugged terrain, the decision may come down to frequency, repair costs, and whether plywood mats are already part of the workflow.