Understanding Steel Track Systems on Older John Deere Crawlers

[MikePhua]

The Evolution of Steel Tracks
Steel tracks have long been the workhorse component of tracked machinery, especially in dozers and crawler tractors like the early John Deere 420 and 440 models. These tracks, typically composed of links connected by pins and bushings, offer superior traction on uneven terrain and are a hallmark of construction and agricultural equipment designed for durability.
On machines such as the John Deere 420C or 440IC, the track assembly consists of links, pins, bushings, and often track shoes bolted to each link. Over time, these components wear, leading to the need for rebuilds or replacements. A common practice among owners of vintage equipment is to rebuild track chains by replacing the pins and bushings, a process known as "turning the pins and bushings." This restores track pitch and prolongs track life.
Pin-and-Bushing Wear and the Cost of Rebuilding
In older John Deere machines, the pin-and-bushing assemblies wear due to constant metal-on-metal movement. When bushings wear down, the track pitch elongates, and the tracks may start to ride poorly on the sprockets, causing further damage.
Owners frequently face a tough decision: Should they rebuild worn chains by pressing out old pins and bushings and replacing them, or invest in new chains entirely? Rebuilding costs depend on labor and parts availability. As of the mid-2010s, quotes for pressing and turning pins and bushings could run between $800–$1,200 per side, including labor—costs that only make sense if the link sections are in good shape. Otherwise, aftermarket chains might be more economical.
Sourcing Replacement Tracks and Shoes
Finding replacement track chains for older models such as the John Deere 420 or 440 can be challenging but not impossible. Some aftermarket suppliers offer compatible chains, although not all parts—especially narrower or customized track shoes—are readily available. A common setup includes 12-inch-wide track shoes, but narrower shoes (e.g., 10-inch) may be desirable for working in tight or forested areas. In some cases, owners swap out track pads if the chain links remain serviceable.
Interestingly, vintage machinery collectors often repurpose parts from different models, as the undercarriage components from other small crawlers, like those from International Harvester’s TD series or Allis-Chalmers, may fit with modifications.
Track Tension and Maintenance
Proper track tension is critical to longevity. Too tight, and the increased friction accelerates wear. Too loose, and the track may jump off the sprocket. John Deere’s vintage crawlers typically use a spring-loaded idler system with a screw or grease fitting for tensioning. Owners should check tension regularly and watch for wear on the idlers, rollers, and sprockets. Uneven wear patterns often indicate misalignment or excessive tension.
For machines that sit idle for long periods, rusted pins and seized bushings can also present problems. Regular movement and greasing help keep the system functional.
Field Experience and Practical Tips
In a real-world example, one longtime owner in the Midwest noted he had run the same John Deere 420C for over 40 years, rebuilding the track system twice in that time. His key piece of advice: "Don’t wait until the track is jumping teeth. By then, you’re cutting into the sprocket, and those aren’t cheap either."
In logging regions of the Pacific Northwest, it was common to see older John Deere and Cletrac crawlers pulling log arches or dragging cedar posts. Operators would occasionally torch off bent track shoes and bolt on replacements in the field.
Modern Alternatives and Historical Legacy
While newer machines like the John Deere 450K or CASE 650M now feature sealed and lubricated track (SALT) chains that offer extended service life and quieter operation, the older dry chains of the 1950s and 1960s remain appreciated for their simplicity. Enthusiasts and restorers of vintage equipment often note that older John Deere machines were “built to be fixed in the field,” a trait increasingly rare in modern machinery.
A fitting parallel can be drawn to how antique car collectors preserve Model A Fords—not because they outperform modern vehicles, but because they tell a story. So too with vintage John Deere crawlers: each grease fitting and worn shoe carries decades of work, hardship, and ingenuity.
Conclusion
Maintaining or rebuilding track systems on older John Deere crawlers involves a careful balance of cost, parts availability, and mechanical know-how. While replacement tracks or pins and bushings can breathe new life into an aging crawler, the decision must weigh the historical value, intended use, and available budget. As long as rural America has barns full of tools and neighbors willing to lend a hand, machines like the John Deere 420C will keep working—and earning their keep.