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The Rise of Rubber Tracks in Compact Equipment
Rubber tracks revolutionized compact equipment in the 1990s, offering a quieter, more versatile alternative to steel tracks. Manufacturers like ASV, Takeuchi, and New Holland began integrating rubber track systems into skid steers and compact excavators to meet the growing demand for machines that could operate on turf, pavement, and soft ground without causing excessive damage.
ASV, founded in Minnesota in 1983, was one of the pioneers of the Posi-Track system—a suspended undercarriage design that distributed weight evenly across the track, reducing ground pressure and improving flotation. By the early 2000s, ASV’s PT-100 and 4810 models had gained popularity in landscaping, forestry, and utility work, especially in regions with variable terrain.
Rubber Tracks in Wet Conditions A Double-Edged Sword
While rubber tracks offer excellent traction on dry, loose surfaces, they can become liabilities in saturated ground. Operators in Scotland and South Australia have reported machines bogging down in greasy clay and wet scrub, even with low ground pressure designs. One operator described a PT-4810 sinking to its belly in a sodden field, despite its light footprint and rear-mounted winch.
The issue lies in the nature of rubber itself. Unlike steel tracks, which can bite into firm soil and climb over obstacles, rubber tracks rely on surface friction. In wet conditions, especially on slopes, they lose grip and become prone to sliding or burying. The problem is compounded when the machine’s weight shifts forward—such as when descending nose-first into unknown terrain.
Terrain Strategy Matters
Experienced operators emphasize the importance of approach angle and terrain reading. One technique is to always work “nose-up” on slopes, backing up the incline and clearing vegetation before descending. This allows better visibility of hidden stumps, rocks, or gullies that could halt progress or destabilize the machine.
In contrast, going nose-first into uncleared terrain increases the risk of sudden stops and poor traction in reverse. The machine’s head acts as a counterweight, reducing rear grip and making recovery difficult. A common recovery method involves using a second machine—often a tracked excavator or dozer—to pull the bogged unit free.
Recovery Equipment and Field Tactics
Operators working in steep or wet terrain often keep a backup machine nearby. One example involved a Takeuchi TB145 excavator used to rescue a New Holland C175 skid steer stuck in a soak. Another operator relied on a John Deere 350C dozer with a three-point hitch and slasher for clearing rough country, though he admitted to flipping it twice and burying it over the tracks.
Recovery tips include:
Not all rubber tracks are created equal. ASV’s standard Posi-Track pattern features a chevron-style lug design optimized for forward traction and debris ejection. However, some replacement tracks—especially those from third-party suppliers—use generic patterns that perform poorly in mud or clay.
Operators have noted that hired-in machines with non-standard tracks often struggle more in wet conditions. When sourcing replacement tracks, it’s critical to match the pattern and compound to the original specifications. Softer compounds may offer better grip but wear faster, while harder compounds resist abrasion but lose traction in slick terrain.
Supply Chain Delays and Downtime Costs
One recurring issue is the delay in sourcing replacement tracks. In one case, a machine sat idle for six weeks waiting for a new set of tracks to arrive from the U.S. This kind of downtime can cripple small operations, especially during peak seasons. To mitigate this, operators should:
Rubber tracks typically last 1,200 to 1,800 hours depending on terrain, operator habits, and maintenance. Key factors that influence lifespan include:
Rubber tracks offer undeniable advantages in versatility and surface protection, but they come with trade-offs—especially in wet, steep, or unpredictable terrain. Operators must adapt their techniques, maintain their equipment diligently, and plan for contingencies. Whether it’s a winch-equipped ASV or a backup excavator waiting in the wings, success in the field depends on preparation, experience, and respect for the limits of rubber under pressure.
Rubber tracks revolutionized compact equipment in the 1990s, offering a quieter, more versatile alternative to steel tracks. Manufacturers like ASV, Takeuchi, and New Holland began integrating rubber track systems into skid steers and compact excavators to meet the growing demand for machines that could operate on turf, pavement, and soft ground without causing excessive damage.
ASV, founded in Minnesota in 1983, was one of the pioneers of the Posi-Track system—a suspended undercarriage design that distributed weight evenly across the track, reducing ground pressure and improving flotation. By the early 2000s, ASV’s PT-100 and 4810 models had gained popularity in landscaping, forestry, and utility work, especially in regions with variable terrain.
Rubber Tracks in Wet Conditions A Double-Edged Sword
While rubber tracks offer excellent traction on dry, loose surfaces, they can become liabilities in saturated ground. Operators in Scotland and South Australia have reported machines bogging down in greasy clay and wet scrub, even with low ground pressure designs. One operator described a PT-4810 sinking to its belly in a sodden field, despite its light footprint and rear-mounted winch.
The issue lies in the nature of rubber itself. Unlike steel tracks, which can bite into firm soil and climb over obstacles, rubber tracks rely on surface friction. In wet conditions, especially on slopes, they lose grip and become prone to sliding or burying. The problem is compounded when the machine’s weight shifts forward—such as when descending nose-first into unknown terrain.
Terrain Strategy Matters
Experienced operators emphasize the importance of approach angle and terrain reading. One technique is to always work “nose-up” on slopes, backing up the incline and clearing vegetation before descending. This allows better visibility of hidden stumps, rocks, or gullies that could halt progress or destabilize the machine.
In contrast, going nose-first into uncleared terrain increases the risk of sudden stops and poor traction in reverse. The machine’s head acts as a counterweight, reducing rear grip and making recovery difficult. A common recovery method involves using a second machine—often a tracked excavator or dozer—to pull the bogged unit free.
Recovery Equipment and Field Tactics
Operators working in steep or wet terrain often keep a backup machine nearby. One example involved a Takeuchi TB145 excavator used to rescue a New Holland C175 skid steer stuck in a soak. Another operator relied on a John Deere 350C dozer with a three-point hitch and slasher for clearing rough country, though he admitted to flipping it twice and burying it over the tracks.
Recovery tips include:
- Equip machines with rear-mounted winches or tow points
- Carry recovery straps rated for double the machine’s weight
- Use a spotter to guide extraction and avoid further bogging
- Avoid spinning tracks, which can dig deeper and damage the undercarriage
- Consider waiting for frozen ground in seasonal climates to improve traction
Not all rubber tracks are created equal. ASV’s standard Posi-Track pattern features a chevron-style lug design optimized for forward traction and debris ejection. However, some replacement tracks—especially those from third-party suppliers—use generic patterns that perform poorly in mud or clay.
Operators have noted that hired-in machines with non-standard tracks often struggle more in wet conditions. When sourcing replacement tracks, it’s critical to match the pattern and compound to the original specifications. Softer compounds may offer better grip but wear faster, while harder compounds resist abrasion but lose traction in slick terrain.
Supply Chain Delays and Downtime Costs
One recurring issue is the delay in sourcing replacement tracks. In one case, a machine sat idle for six weeks waiting for a new set of tracks to arrive from the U.S. This kind of downtime can cripple small operations, especially during peak seasons. To mitigate this, operators should:
- Keep a spare set of tracks or at least one spare per machine type
- Build relationships with local distributors who stock OEM-compatible parts
- Consider retreading or patching minor damage if full replacement isn’t feasible
- Track wear patterns and schedule replacements proactively
Rubber tracks typically last 1,200 to 1,800 hours depending on terrain, operator habits, and maintenance. Key factors that influence lifespan include:
- Proper tensioning: Over-tight tracks strain the drive motor; under-tight tracks derail
- Cleanliness: Mud and debris trapped in the undercarriage accelerate wear
- Alignment: Misaligned sprockets or idlers cause uneven wear and premature failure
- Storage: UV exposure and temperature swings degrade rubber compounds
- Cracks or splits in the rubber carcass
- Exposed steel cords or delamination
- Lug wear and pattern distortion
- Oil leaks from final drives or rollers
Rubber tracks offer undeniable advantages in versatility and surface protection, but they come with trade-offs—especially in wet, steep, or unpredictable terrain. Operators must adapt their techniques, maintain their equipment diligently, and plan for contingencies. Whether it’s a winch-equipped ASV or a backup excavator waiting in the wings, success in the field depends on preparation, experience, and respect for the limits of rubber under pressure.
