Sourcing Track Chains for the Rayco T275 Forestry Mulcher

[MikePhua]

The Rayco T275 and Its Undercarriage Demands
The Rayco T275 is a purpose-built forestry mulcher designed for land clearing, vegetation management, and right-of-way maintenance. Manufactured by Rayco Manufacturing, a company founded in 1978 and now part of Morbark LLC, the T275 was engineered to deliver high horsepower and rugged durability in extreme terrain. With a Cummins QSB6.7 engine producing 275 horsepower and an operating weight of over 13,000 kg, the machine is built to withstand punishing conditions.
Its undercarriage is a critical component, supporting the entire frame while absorbing shock loads from uneven ground, stumps, and debris. The T275 uses steel track chains with sealed and lubricated bushings, designed to handle high torque from the hydrostatic drive motors. These chains are not off-the-shelf items—they must match pitch, link count, and bushing dimensions precisely to ensure proper fit and longevity.
Understanding Track Chain Specifications
Track chains for the T275 are typically double grouser or single grouser steel links, depending on terrain and application. Key parameters include:

• Pitch
  • The distance between pin centers, typically 171 mm or 190 mm for machines in this weight class
    
• Link Count
  • Varies based on track frame length and sprocket configuration
    
  • Usually between 48 and 52 links per side
    
• Bushing Type
  • Sealed and greased bushings with hardened surfaces
    
  • Some variants use oil-lubricated bushings for extended life
    
• Shoe Width
  

• Common widths range from 600 mm to 760 mm
  
• Wider shoes offer better flotation but increase stress on chains
  

Terminology annotation:

• Pitch: The center-to-center distance between adjacent track pins, critical for sprocket engagement.
  
• Bushing: A cylindrical sleeve between the pin and link, allowing rotation and absorbing wear.
  
• Sealed Track Chain: A track assembly where grease is retained inside the pin-bushing joint by seals, reducing wear.
  
• Grouser: The raised portion of the track shoe that provides traction.
  

In one case from a land-clearing crew in Georgia, a T275 began derailing frequently after 3,000 hours. Inspection revealed that the bushings had worn through their hardened layer, and the pitch had elongated by 4 mm, causing misalignment with the sprockets.
Sourcing Challenges and Aftermarket Solutions
Finding replacement track chains for the T275 can be difficult due to its specialized design. OEM parts are available through Rayco dealers, but lead times and pricing can be prohibitive. Aftermarket suppliers may offer compatible chains, but verification is essential.
Sourcing tips:

• Measure pitch and bushing diameter directly from worn chains
  
• Count links and verify shoe bolt pattern
  
• Cross-reference with undercarriage catalogs from Berco, ITM, or VemaTrack
  
• Request material specs (e.g., 4140 hardened steel) and seal type from supplier
  
• Confirm compatibility with drive sprocket tooth count and idler diameter
  

Recommendations:

• Replace both chains simultaneously to maintain balance
  
• Inspect sprockets and rollers for wear before installing new chains
  
• Use torque specs from service manual when bolting shoes
  
• Break-in new chains with reduced travel speed for the first 10 hours
  

In Alberta, a forestry contractor sourced aftermarket chains from a heavy equipment recycler. The chains matched pitch and link count but had a different seal design. After 500 hours, the contractor reported increased bushing wear and switched back to OEM seals during the next service interval.
Preventative Maintenance and Chain Longevity
To extend the life of track chains:

• Grease tensioners monthly and maintain proper track sag
  
• Avoid high-speed travel over rocky terrain
  
• Clean debris from undercarriage daily to prevent shoe binding
  
• Monitor bushing wear with calipers and track elongation with pitch gauges
  
• Rotate track direction periodically to equalize wear
  

For machines operating in swampy or abrasive environments, consider upgrading to salt-hardened bushings or installing track guards to reduce side loading. In Louisiana, a mulching crew added bolt-on guards and extended chain life by 25%.
Conclusion
Track chains for the Rayco T275 are mission-critical components that demand precise sourcing and disciplined maintenance. Whether using OEM assemblies or vetted aftermarket alternatives, operators must match specifications carefully and monitor wear proactively. In forestry work, where terrain punishes every moving part, the track chain is both the foundation and the frontline. Getting it right means keeping the machine moving—and the job on schedule.