Track Weight and Undercarriage Dynamics of the TD-8E Dozer

[MikePhua]

The Evolution of the TD-8E Series
The TD-8E crawler dozer represents a transitional chapter in the lineage of mid-size track machines originally developed by International Harvester and later refined under the Dresser brand. Produced between the late 1970s and early 1990s, the TD-8E was designed to offer hydrostatic drive, compact maneuverability, and simplified maintenance for contractors working in grading, forestry, and utility sectors. With thousands of units sold across North America, the TD-8E became a staple in municipal fleets and private construction outfits.
International Harvester, founded in 1902, had already established a strong presence in agricultural and industrial machinery. The TD-8E was part of its push into hydrostatic technology, offering smoother control and fewer mechanical linkages compared to traditional clutch-and-brake systems. After the merger with Komatsu in the 1980s, Dresser continued to support and evolve the TD-8 platform, maintaining parts availability and service continuity.
Track Weight and Component Breakdown
The track assembly of the TD-8E is a critical contributor to its overall operating weight and ground pressure. Each track side includes:

• Track shoes (typically 13-inch wide)
  
• Track chains and bushings
  
• Carrier rollers and bottom rollers
  
• Sprockets and idlers
  
• Track frame and tensioning system
  

The total weight of one complete track assembly is approximately 1,800 to 2,000 pounds, depending on shoe width, pad type, and wear condition. For machines equipped with wider swamp pads or heavy-duty grousers, the weight can exceed 2,200 pounds per side.
This means the undercarriage alone contributes roughly 3,600 to 4,400 pounds to the machine’s total operating weight, which averages around 17,000 pounds for the TD-8E.
Terminology Notes

• Track Shoes: Steel plates bolted to the track chain that provide traction and distribute weight.
  
• Carrier Rollers: Upper rollers that support the track chain and reduce sag.
  
• Grousers: Raised ridges on track shoes that improve grip in soft terrain.
  
• Track Frame: Structural assembly that houses rollers, idlers, and supports the track system.
  

Undercarriage Wear and Maintenance Strategies
The TD-8E’s undercarriage is designed for durability, but like all track machines, it is subject to high wear rates. Common issues include:

• Bushing wear leading to pitch elongation
  
• Roller seal failure causing oil leaks
  
• Sprocket tooth rounding reducing engagement
  
• Shoe bolt loosening or shearing
  

To extend undercarriage life:

• Maintain proper track tension—neither too tight nor too loose
  
• Rotate track chains if wear is uneven between sides
  
• Grease rollers and inspect seals every 100 hours
  
• Avoid high-speed turns on abrasive surfaces
  
• Use wide pads in soft ground to reduce ground pressure
  

A forestry crew in Oregon reported doubling the life of their TD-8E tracks by switching to sealed and lubricated chains and implementing a weekly inspection routine. They also added bolt-on wear plates to their track frames to reduce side wear during slope work.
Hydrostatic Drive and Track Behavior
The TD-8E uses a dual-path hydrostatic transmission, allowing independent control of each track. This provides zero-radius turning and precise maneuvering, especially in confined spaces. However, hydrostatic systems are sensitive to:

• Fluid contamination
  
• Cooling system performance
  
• Pump cavitation due to low fluid levels
  

Operators should monitor hydraulic temperatures and use OEM-spec fluids to prevent premature wear. A contractor in Texas experienced sluggish track response during summer grading. After inspecting the cooling fins and replacing the clogged hydraulic filter, performance returned to normal.
Replacement and Rebuild Considerations
When rebuilding the track system:

• Replace chains and pads as a set to ensure even wear
  
• Inspect sprockets and idlers for alignment and wear
  
• Use torque specs when installing shoe bolts to prevent loosening
  
• Consider aftermarket sealed rollers for longer service intervals
  

Some owners opt for complete undercarriage kits, which include chains, pads, rollers, and sprockets. These kits can cost between $6,000 and $9,000 depending on configuration and supplier.
Operator Anecdotes and Field Wisdom
A retired operator in Manitoba recalled using a TD-8E for ditch shaping and culvert installation. He emphasized the importance of track tension, noting that over-tightening once led to premature roller failure. Another user in Alabama shared how switching to wider pads improved flotation in clay-rich soil, reducing rutting and improving grading consistency.
In British Columbia, a municipal crew used their TD-8E for snow removal. They added bolt-on rubber pads to the track shoes to prevent damage to asphalt surfaces. The modification extended shoe life and reduced complaints from residents.
Conclusion
The TD-8E’s track system is a finely balanced assembly of weight, traction, and mechanical resilience. Understanding the contribution of track weight to overall performance, and maintaining each component with care, ensures the machine remains productive across diverse terrain. Whether shaping roads, clearing land, or trenching utilities, the TD-8E continues to prove that thoughtful engineering and disciplined maintenance are the keys to long-term success.