Maintaining and Replacing Rubber Tracks on the CAT 312 Excavator

[MikePhua]

Rubber tracks are an essential part of a crawler excavator’s performance, providing mobility, stability, and traction on a wide range of surfaces. The CAT 312 excavator, a popular model in the construction and demolition industries, relies on these tracks for effective operation in tight spaces and rough terrains. Over time, these tracks can wear out or become damaged, requiring timely maintenance or replacement. This article will explore the importance of rubber tracks on the CAT 312, how to identify issues with them, and provide guidance on how to maintain or replace them effectively.
Understanding the Importance of Rubber Tracks
Rubber tracks play a crucial role in the overall functionality of an excavator. Unlike steel tracks, rubber tracks are preferred in many applications because they are quieter, less damaging to hard surfaces, and offer more flexibility when working on delicate or uneven ground. In addition, rubber tracks have better shock absorption, which reduces wear on the excavator's undercarriage and provides smoother travel.
Benefits of Rubber Tracks:

1. Reduced Surface Damage: Rubber tracks are less likely to damage paved surfaces or delicate ground like asphalt or turf compared to traditional steel tracks.
   
2. Improved Traction and Stability: The design of the rubber tracks, with their continuous tread pattern, allows for better grip on both smooth and rough surfaces.
   
3. Lower Maintenance Costs: While rubber tracks may wear out faster than steel tracks in some environments, they often require less frequent maintenance on the undercarriage components, like rollers and sprockets.
   
4. Enhanced Mobility: Rubber tracks provide better maneuverability, especially in environments where the excavator needs to navigate tight spaces or uneven terrain.
   

Symptoms of Worn or Damaged Rubber Tracks
Knowing when to replace or repair the rubber tracks on your CAT 312 can prevent unnecessary downtime and ensure optimal machine performance. Here are some common symptoms of worn or damaged tracks:

1. Excessive Vibration During Operation
   • Cause: Uneven wear or damage to the rubber tracks can result in vibration during operation. This could be caused by missing or damaged tread patterns, which reduce the track’s ability to grip the ground evenly.
     
   • Solution: Inspect the tracks for worn areas, cracks, or signs of uneven wear. If the tracks have been used for an extended period with uneven wear, they may need to be replaced.
     
2. Visible Cracks or Gashes in the Rubber
   • Cause: Prolonged use or harsh conditions can lead to cracks or gashes in the rubber, which compromises the track’s integrity.
     
   • Solution: Check the tracks for any signs of significant damage. If cracks or gashes are deep, replacement of the affected track(s) is necessary to avoid further damage to the undercarriage.
     
3. Track Slippage
   • Cause: Track slippage occurs when the rubber tracks fail to maintain proper tension or grip, leading to loss of traction, especially on slopes or soft ground.
     
   • Solution: Inspect the tensioning system to ensure the tracks are properly tightened. Slippage can also result from worn or damaged drive lugs, which are responsible for driving the tracks. Replacing or adjusting the tracks or drive lugs may be necessary.
     
4. Noise or Excessive Wear in the Undercarriage
   • Cause: If the rubber tracks become misaligned or excessively worn, they can put additional strain on the undercarriage components, such as the rollers, sprockets, and idlers.
     
   • Solution: Inspect the undercarriage for wear or damage. Excessive noise or wear in the rollers may indicate that the tracks need to be replaced to prevent further damage to the undercarriage.
     
5. Cracks in the Track Links
   • Cause: Track links can become cracked due to excessive wear, stress, or poor maintenance practices. Cracked track links may cause further damage to the tracks or undercarriage.
     
   • Solution: Inspect the track links for cracks or fractures. If any are found, replacement of the track or repair of the links may be necessary.
     

Steps to Replace Rubber Tracks on the CAT 312 Excavator
If your CAT 312 excavator’s rubber tracks are beyond repair, replacing them is an essential task to maintain the machine's performance and ensure safety on the job site. Here are the steps involved in replacing the rubber tracks:

1. Prepare the Excavator
   • Step 1: Park the excavator on a level surface and ensure it is secure. Turn off the engine and engage the parking brake.
     
   • Step 2: Lift the excavator with a jack or hydraulic lift to relieve tension on the tracks. Secure the machine with blocks or other safety equipment.
     
2. Remove the Old Tracks
   • Step 1: Locate the track tensioning system and release the tension. On most models, this can be done by loosening the tensioning bolt.
     
   • Step 2: Use the track adjuster to create slack in the track, making it easier to remove.
     
   • Step 3: Loosen the bolts holding the track links in place. Carefully remove the old tracks from the undercarriage, being cautious not to damage other components.
     
3. Inspect the Undercarriage
   • Step 1: Before installing the new tracks, inspect the undercarriage components such as the rollers, sprockets, and idlers for signs of wear or damage.
     
   • Step 2: Replace any worn components to ensure the new tracks will operate smoothly and not be prematurely damaged.
     
4. Install the New Tracks
   • Step 1: Align the new rubber tracks with the undercarriage and position them around the rollers, sprockets, and idlers.
     
   • Step 2: Tighten the bolts and secure the track links in place, ensuring proper alignment of the track.
     
   • Step 3: Adjust the track tension using the tensioning system, ensuring that the tracks are tight but not overly stretched.
     
5. Test the Tracks
   • Step 1: Lower the excavator to the ground and run the machine at a low speed to check the movement of the new tracks.
     
   • Step 2: Listen for any unusual sounds and check for smooth operation. Adjust the tension if necessary to ensure the tracks run properly.
     

Maintaining Rubber Tracks to Extend Their Lifespan
Proper maintenance of your rubber tracks can help extend their lifespan and prevent premature wear. Here are some key maintenance tips:

1. Regularly Inspect Tracks
   • Check the tracks for signs of wear, cracks, or damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
     
2. Maintain Proper Tension
   • Regularly check the tension of the tracks. Too much slack or excessive tightness can cause uneven wear and premature damage. Adjust the tension as needed to keep the tracks operating at their best.
     
3. Clean Tracks After Use
   • After working in muddy, dirty, or rocky environments, clean the tracks and undercarriage to prevent debris from causing unnecessary wear. Use a pressure washer or a hose to clean out any dirt or rocks lodged in the tracks.
     
4. Avoid Overloading the Machine
   • Overloading the excavator can place excessive strain on the rubber tracks. Always ensure that the machine is within its specified weight limits to reduce the risk of damage.
     
5. Use the Right Operating Conditions
   • Rubber tracks are not suited for all types of terrain. If the machine will be used in a harsh environment, consider using steel tracks or taking extra care to protect the rubber tracks.
     

Case Study: Replacing Tracks on a CAT 312
A construction company operating a CAT 312 excavator on a demolition project noticed that the rubber tracks were showing signs of significant wear. The tracks were slipping and the undercarriage components were making excessive noise. After inspection, it was determined that the tracks had become misaligned, and several links were cracked.
The company decided to replace the tracks as part of a routine maintenance check. They followed the steps outlined above, ensuring that all components of the undercarriage were inspected and replaced as needed. Once the new tracks were installed, the excavator performed smoothly, and the company was able to complete the project without further downtime.
Conclusion
Rubber tracks are a crucial component of the CAT 312 excavator, providing mobility, traction, and stability in various working conditions. Understanding the signs of wear, knowing when to replace the tracks, and properly maintaining them can ensure the longevity of the machine and prevent costly repairs. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance will help keep the rubber tracks in top condition, maximizing the performance and efficiency of the CAT 312 on the job site.