Improving Traction with Track Cleats on Compact Track Loaders

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Compact Track Loaders in Snow and Mud
Compact track loaders (CTLs) have become indispensable in construction, landscaping, and utility work due to their low ground pressure and ability to operate in soft terrain. Unlike wheeled machines, CTLs distribute weight evenly across rubber tracks, allowing them to float over mud, sand, and snow. However, this advantage comes with a tradeoff—traction on slick surfaces, especially snow-covered or frozen ground, can be limited.
Rubber tracks, while excellent for minimizing surface damage, lack the aggressive tread needed to bite into ice or packed snow. This has led operators to explore aftermarket solutions like track cleats, screw-in carbide tips, and bolt-on traction aids to improve grip and maneuverability in winter conditions.
What Are Track Cleats and Why Do They Matter
Track cleats are external traction devices designed to enhance the grip of rubber tracks. They can be bolted or screwed into the track surface and often feature hardened steel or carbide tips. These cleats act like studs on snow tires, penetrating slick surfaces and providing lateral stability during turns and climbs.
Benefits of track cleats include:

• Improved traction on ice, packed snow, and frozen ground
  
• Reduced slippage during turning and grading
  
• Enhanced control when operating on slopes or inclines
  
• Lower risk of track derailment in uneven terrain
  

Some cleats are designed to be removable, allowing operators to switch configurations based on seasonal needs. Others are permanently mounted and require careful installation to avoid damaging the track carcass.
Challenges with Rubber Tracks in Snow
Rubber tracks perform well in mud and soft soil, but snow presents unique challenges. When snow is freshly fallen and fluffy, CTLs can operate without issue. However, once the snow is compacted or scraped down to a slick base, traction drops dramatically. Turning becomes difficult, and the machine may slide sideways or struggle to climb even modest grades.
Operators have noted that the worst conditions occur after snow has been cleared and the surface becomes icy. In these cases, the smooth rubber track surface offers little resistance, and the machine may fishtail or lose directional control.
One solution is to switch to wheeled machines with rear tire chains, which offer superior grip in snow. However, for those committed to CTLs, cleats and carbide tips offer a viable alternative.
Screw-In Carbide Tips and Their Effectiveness
Screw-in carbide tips are among the most popular traction aids for rubber track machines. These tips are threaded into pre-drilled holes in the track and feature a sharp, wear-resistant point that bites into ice and hard-packed snow. They are similar in concept to tire studs but designed for the heavier loads and torque of construction equipment.
Advantages of carbide tips:

• Easy to install and replace
  
• Resistant to wear and corrosion
  
• Provide consistent grip across varied terrain
  
• Compatible with most rubber track brands
  

Installation requires precision. Tips must be evenly spaced to avoid imbalance, and care must be taken not to puncture the track’s internal reinforcement. Some manufacturers offer installation templates or kits to simplify the process.
Operational Considerations and Cost Factors
While track cleats and carbide tips improve traction, they also introduce new variables:

• Increased wear on paved surfaces
  
• Higher operating noise
  
• Potential damage to concrete or asphalt
  
• Added maintenance and inspection requirements
  

Operators should weigh the benefits against these drawbacks. For machines used primarily in snow or off-road conditions, the tradeoff is often worthwhile. However, for urban or mixed-use environments, cleats may be overkill.
Cost varies depending on the system. A full set of screw-in tips may cost several hundred dollars, while bolt-on cleats can exceed $1,000 depending on material and design. Labor costs for installation should also be considered, especially if drilling or modification is required.
Manufacturer Trends and Market Availability
Some traction products have been discontinued due to limited demand or manufacturing shifts. For example, certain cleat systems once marketed for CTLs are no longer available, leaving operators to seek alternatives or fabricate custom solutions.
Major track manufacturers like Camso and Bridgestone have explored integrated traction designs, including aggressive tread patterns and embedded studs. While promising, these options are often limited to specific models or regions.
In the aftermarket space, smaller companies and fabricators continue to offer traction kits, especially in snow-prone areas like the northern U.S., Canada, and Scandinavia.
Conclusion
Track cleats and carbide tips offer a practical solution for improving traction on compact track loaders operating in snow and ice. While not universally necessary, they can dramatically enhance safety and performance in winter conditions. By understanding the limitations of rubber tracks and selecting the right traction aids, operators can maintain productivity year-round without compromising control or equipment integrity. In the world of compact equipment, traction isn’t just about movement—it’s about confidence, control, and getting the job done no matter the weather.