2 hours ago
One of the most frustrating and costly issues for operators of tracked heavy equipment is when a track is thrown, or derailed. This problem not only leads to expensive downtime but can also cause significant damage to the undercarriage and track components. The good news is that track throw is largely preventable if proper maintenance and operational practices are followed. In this article, we will explore how to avoid throwing a track, the causes behind it, and the best ways to ensure your machine operates smoothly.
Understanding Track Throw
Track throw occurs when the track becomes dislodged from the sprockets or idlers, causing it to derail. The track is designed to stay in place thanks to the interlocking system of sprockets, rollers, and idlers, but certain conditions can cause it to slip out of alignment. When a track is thrown, it can damage the undercarriage, cause hydraulic or mechanical failures, and disrupt the machine’s performance. A derailed track is especially problematic on machinery like excavators, bulldozers, and track loaders, which rely on continuous track motion for efficient operation.
Causes of Track Throw
There are several factors that can lead to track throw, most of which are preventable through proper maintenance and operational care. Here are the common causes:
1. Improper Tension
The tension of the track plays a critical role in its ability to stay in place. Too much tension can cause excessive wear on the undercarriage components, while too little tension can cause the track to slip off the rollers or sprockets. Ensuring the proper tension is crucial for preventing track issues.
Over time, the components of the undercarriage, such as the sprockets, rollers, and idlers, can wear out and lose their ability to grip and hold the track securely. When these components become worn, they can cause the track to slip or become misaligned.
Debris, such as mud, dirt, rocks, or vegetation, can build up in the track system and interfere with its operation. When debris gets lodged between the sprockets, rollers, or track links, it can cause the track to become misaligned or even dislodged.
Certain operating conditions, such as high-speed turns or excessive load on one side of the machine, can put extra strain on the tracks, causing them to come off the sprockets. Rough terrain, steep slopes, and sharp turns can also contribute to track issues.
As with any piece of equipment, tracks have a lifespan. Over time, they will naturally wear out, leading to reduced performance and a higher risk of track throw. This can occur even with regular maintenance, as wear is an inevitable part of a machine’s lifecycle.
Regular maintenance is the key to preventing track throw. Here are some essential maintenance practices to follow:
1. Regular Track Inspections
Inspecting the tracks and undercarriage components is the first step in preventing track throw. Look for signs of wear, such as cracked or stretched tracks, damaged sprockets, or worn-out rollers. It’s important to check both the condition of the track and the tightness of the components.
2. Track Tension Checks
As mentioned earlier, track tension is crucial. Check the track tension regularly to ensure it is within the proper range. Use a tension gauge or check the track deflection manually, as per the manufacturer’s specifications. If the track is too loose, it can slip, while too tight can cause unnecessary wear.
3. Undercarriage Cleaning
When working in muddy, dusty, or rocky conditions, it’s essential to clean the undercarriage regularly. Wash out any debris or buildup around the track system, sprockets, and rollers to maintain proper movement. Keeping the undercarriage clean helps prevent blockages that can disrupt the track’s alignment.
4. Lubrication
Lubricating the track rollers, idlers, and sprockets is important for smooth operation and longevity. Proper lubrication ensures that all moving parts function efficiently and prevents them from becoming stiff or worn out. Check the lubrication levels regularly and apply the appropriate grease or oil.
5. Track Alignment and Tracking
Ensuring that the tracks are properly aligned is crucial for avoiding misalignment and track throw. During regular inspections, check that the tracks are running straight and not skewed to one side. Misalignment can cause uneven wear, which increases the chances of track throw.
How to Handle Track Throw if It Happens
Even with proper maintenance, sometimes a track can still get thrown. If this happens, here’s what to do:
1. Stop the Machine Immediately
If you notice the track has come off, stop the machine immediately to prevent further damage. Continuing to operate the machine with a thrown track can cause severe damage to the track, undercarriage, and other vital components.
2. Assess the Situation
Carefully assess the situation to determine how the track was thrown and whether there are any other damages, such as to the sprockets, rollers, or idlers. Check for any blockages or debris that may have caused the issue.
3. Realign the Track
If the track has slipped off but is still salvageable, attempt to realign it by using a track jack or lifting device to raise the machine and reposition the track back onto the sprockets. Follow the machine’s manual for proper procedures.
4. Call for Professional Help
If you are unable to reattach the track or if significant damage has occurred, it’s best to call a professional technician to assess the situation. Trying to force the track back on without professional help can cause more damage.
Conclusion
Track throw is a serious issue that can lead to costly downtime and equipment damage. However, with proper maintenance, care, and attention to operational practices, the risk of track throw can be significantly reduced. By ensuring the correct track tension, cleaning the undercarriage regularly, and addressing wear and tear on components, operators can keep their equipment running smoothly and efficiently, saving time and money in the long run. Remember, prevention is always the best strategy when it comes to avoiding track-related problems on heavy equipment.
Understanding Track Throw
Track throw occurs when the track becomes dislodged from the sprockets or idlers, causing it to derail. The track is designed to stay in place thanks to the interlocking system of sprockets, rollers, and idlers, but certain conditions can cause it to slip out of alignment. When a track is thrown, it can damage the undercarriage, cause hydraulic or mechanical failures, and disrupt the machine’s performance. A derailed track is especially problematic on machinery like excavators, bulldozers, and track loaders, which rely on continuous track motion for efficient operation.
Causes of Track Throw
There are several factors that can lead to track throw, most of which are preventable through proper maintenance and operational care. Here are the common causes:
1. Improper Tension
The tension of the track plays a critical role in its ability to stay in place. Too much tension can cause excessive wear on the undercarriage components, while too little tension can cause the track to slip off the rollers or sprockets. Ensuring the proper tension is crucial for preventing track issues.
- Solution: Check the track tension regularly, especially after prolonged use. Most equipment manufacturers provide specific guidelines for proper tension, typically measured in inches of deflection when force is applied. Be sure to adjust the track tension to the manufacturer’s recommended settings.
Over time, the components of the undercarriage, such as the sprockets, rollers, and idlers, can wear out and lose their ability to grip and hold the track securely. When these components become worn, they can cause the track to slip or become misaligned.
- Solution: Inspect the undercarriage components for signs of wear regularly. Pay close attention to the sprockets, as worn teeth can cause the track to slip. Replacing worn components before they cause a problem can prevent costly repairs down the line.
Debris, such as mud, dirt, rocks, or vegetation, can build up in the track system and interfere with its operation. When debris gets lodged between the sprockets, rollers, or track links, it can cause the track to become misaligned or even dislodged.
- Solution: Clean the undercarriage regularly, particularly after working in dirty or muddy environments. Removing debris from the track system helps maintain proper alignment and prevents obstructions that could cause track throw.
Certain operating conditions, such as high-speed turns or excessive load on one side of the machine, can put extra strain on the tracks, causing them to come off the sprockets. Rough terrain, steep slopes, and sharp turns can also contribute to track issues.
- Solution: Avoid operating on excessively steep slopes or rough terrain when possible. Keep turns gradual and avoid sudden, sharp movements. Maintaining a balanced load distribution across the tracks helps reduce the likelihood of track throw.
As with any piece of equipment, tracks have a lifespan. Over time, they will naturally wear out, leading to reduced performance and a higher risk of track throw. This can occur even with regular maintenance, as wear is an inevitable part of a machine’s lifecycle.
- Solution: Replace tracks when they show signs of wear, such as thinning or cracking. Proactive replacement of tracks can prevent issues and improve the overall efficiency of the machine.
Regular maintenance is the key to preventing track throw. Here are some essential maintenance practices to follow:
1. Regular Track Inspections
Inspecting the tracks and undercarriage components is the first step in preventing track throw. Look for signs of wear, such as cracked or stretched tracks, damaged sprockets, or worn-out rollers. It’s important to check both the condition of the track and the tightness of the components.
2. Track Tension Checks
As mentioned earlier, track tension is crucial. Check the track tension regularly to ensure it is within the proper range. Use a tension gauge or check the track deflection manually, as per the manufacturer’s specifications. If the track is too loose, it can slip, while too tight can cause unnecessary wear.
3. Undercarriage Cleaning
When working in muddy, dusty, or rocky conditions, it’s essential to clean the undercarriage regularly. Wash out any debris or buildup around the track system, sprockets, and rollers to maintain proper movement. Keeping the undercarriage clean helps prevent blockages that can disrupt the track’s alignment.
4. Lubrication
Lubricating the track rollers, idlers, and sprockets is important for smooth operation and longevity. Proper lubrication ensures that all moving parts function efficiently and prevents them from becoming stiff or worn out. Check the lubrication levels regularly and apply the appropriate grease or oil.
5. Track Alignment and Tracking
Ensuring that the tracks are properly aligned is crucial for avoiding misalignment and track throw. During regular inspections, check that the tracks are running straight and not skewed to one side. Misalignment can cause uneven wear, which increases the chances of track throw.
How to Handle Track Throw if It Happens
Even with proper maintenance, sometimes a track can still get thrown. If this happens, here’s what to do:
1. Stop the Machine Immediately
If you notice the track has come off, stop the machine immediately to prevent further damage. Continuing to operate the machine with a thrown track can cause severe damage to the track, undercarriage, and other vital components.
2. Assess the Situation
Carefully assess the situation to determine how the track was thrown and whether there are any other damages, such as to the sprockets, rollers, or idlers. Check for any blockages or debris that may have caused the issue.
3. Realign the Track
If the track has slipped off but is still salvageable, attempt to realign it by using a track jack or lifting device to raise the machine and reposition the track back onto the sprockets. Follow the machine’s manual for proper procedures.
4. Call for Professional Help
If you are unable to reattach the track or if significant damage has occurred, it’s best to call a professional technician to assess the situation. Trying to force the track back on without professional help can cause more damage.
Conclusion
Track throw is a serious issue that can lead to costly downtime and equipment damage. However, with proper maintenance, care, and attention to operational practices, the risk of track throw can be significantly reduced. By ensuring the correct track tension, cleaning the undercarriage regularly, and addressing wear and tear on components, operators can keep their equipment running smoothly and efficiently, saving time and money in the long run. Remember, prevention is always the best strategy when it comes to avoiding track-related problems on heavy equipment.
