Choosing and Using Combo Tracks for Compact Equipment

[MikePhua]

The Rise of Combo Tracks in Mixed Terrain Operations
As compact track loaders and mini excavators become more common across construction, landscaping, and utility sectors, the demand for versatile undercarriage solutions has grown. Combo tracks—also known as hybrid or segmented tracks—are designed to bridge the gap between full rubber tracks and steel track systems. They offer a balance of traction, durability, and surface protection, making them ideal for operators who work across varied terrain types.
Traditional rubber tracks provide excellent flotation and minimal surface damage, but they wear quickly on abrasive surfaces like concrete and rock. Steel tracks, while durable, can be harsh on finished surfaces and often require additional components like rubber pads. Combo tracks aim to solve this by integrating steel cores with replaceable rubber pads or segmented rubber-steel assemblies.
Terminology Notes

• Combo Tracks: Track systems combining steel and rubber elements for hybrid performance
  
• Segmented Pads: Individual rubber pads bolted to steel track links
  
• Flotation: The ability of a track to distribute weight and reduce ground pressure
  
• Track Pitch: The distance between track links, affecting ride smoothness and wear
  
• Undercarriage Life: The total service life of track components including rollers, sprockets, and chains
  

Design Features and Performance Benefits
Combo tracks typically consist of:

• Steel chain links for structural integrity
  
• Bolt-on rubber pads for surface protection
  
• Reinforced steel cores to resist deformation
  
• Replaceable pad segments to reduce maintenance costs
  

This configuration allows machines to operate on asphalt, gravel, mud, and even rebar-strewn demolition sites without excessive wear or damage. A contractor in Arizona reported that after switching to combo tracks on his compact loader, pad replacement intervals extended from 400 to 800 hours, and surface damage complaints dropped by 60%.
Use Cases and Terrain Adaptability
Combo tracks are especially useful in:

• Urban demolition zones with mixed debris
  
• Landscaping projects transitioning between turf and pavement
  
• Utility trenching in suburban neighborhoods
  
• Snow removal on concrete driveways
  
• Agricultural work in fields and barnyards
  

In one example, a crew in Ontario used combo tracks on a mini excavator to dig utility trenches across frozen gravel and soft lawns. The steel base provided grip on icy patches, while the rubber pads protected the turf during backfill.
Installation and Compatibility Considerations
Before installing combo tracks, operators should verify:

• Track pitch matches the sprocket and roller spacing
  
• Pad bolt patterns align with existing steel links
  
• Machine weight is within the track’s rated capacity
  
• Clearance between pads and frame components is sufficient
  

Some machines may require minor modifications, such as trimming fenders or adjusting roller guards. Manufacturers often provide compatibility charts based on model and serial number.
Maintenance and Longevity Strategies
To maximize combo track life:

• Inspect pad bolts weekly for loosening or shearing
  
• Replace individual pads as needed rather than full sets
  
• Clean tracks daily to prevent debris buildup under pads
  
• Monitor sprocket wear and replace when teeth become pointed
  
• Use track tension gauges to maintain proper slack
  

A technician in Colorado shared that his team reduced pad loss by 40% after switching to locking flange nuts and applying thread sealant during installation.
Recommendations for Fleet Managers and Operators
When considering combo tracks:

• Evaluate terrain types and percentage of hard surface exposure
  
• Compare pad replacement costs versus full rubber track replacement
  
• Factor in downtime for pad swaps versus full track changes
  
• Train operators to avoid aggressive turns on abrasive surfaces
  
• Keep spare pads and bolts in inventory for quick field repairs
  

For fleets operating in seasonal conditions, combo tracks offer year-round flexibility. In summer, they handle gravel and pavement; in winter, they grip ice while protecting concrete.
Conclusion
Combo tracks represent a smart evolution in compact equipment mobility. By blending the strength of steel with the surface sensitivity of rubber, they offer a practical solution for operators who face diverse terrain challenges. With proper installation, maintenance, and terrain awareness, combo tracks can extend undercarriage life, reduce operating costs, and improve jobsite versatility across industries.