Changing Tracks on a Bobcat Is Harder Than It Looks

[MikePhua]

Bobcat’s Compact Track Loader Legacy
Bobcat Company, founded in 1947 in North Dakota, revolutionized compact equipment with the invention of the skid-steer loader in the 1960s. Its compact track loaders (CTLs), introduced in the 1990s, quickly became industry staples for landscaping, construction, and agriculture. By 2024, Bobcat had sold over 500,000 CTLs globally, with models like the T190, T650, and T770 leading the market.
These machines combine the maneuverability of skid-steers with the traction and flotation of rubber tracks, making them ideal for soft ground, snow, and uneven terrain. But when those tracks wear out or break, replacing them is no small feat.
Why Track Replacement Is So Challenging
Changing tracks on a Bobcat CTL is physically demanding and mechanically tricky. Unlike steel tracks on excavators, rubber tracks are tensioned by hydraulic cylinders and often wedged tightly between rollers and sprockets. The process involves:

• Releasing track tension via grease fitting or tensioner valve
  
• Lifting the machine to relieve pressure on the track
  
• Removing the old track, often requiring pry bars and brute force
  
• Aligning and installing the new track while managing tension and alignment
  

Terminology note:

• Tensioner cylinder: A hydraulic or grease-filled piston that pushes the front idler forward to tighten the track.
  
• Front idler: The wheel at the front of the track system that maintains alignment and tension.
  

Common obstacles include:

• Tracks stuck due to mud, rust, or wear
  
• Tensioner cylinders seized or over-pressurized
  
• Limited clearance between track and frame
  
• Risk of injury from spring-loaded components
  

Field-Tested Techniques That Work
Experienced mechanics and operators have developed practical strategies to simplify the process:

• Use a jack and cribbing: Lift the machine just enough to relieve track pressure without compromising stability.
  
• Loosen tension gradually: Release grease slowly to avoid sudden movement of the idler.
  
• Leverage with boards or pry bars: Use long wooden boards to walk the track off the sprocket.
  
• Rotate the track manually: With the machine lifted, spin the track to find the loosest point for removal.
  
• Apply lubricant: Spray silicone or penetrating oil between the track and rollers to reduce friction.
  

One operator in Colorado shared that he uses a ratchet strap anchored to a nearby tree to pull the track into position—an improvised but effective method in remote areas.
Safety First and Always
Track replacement can be hazardous. Pinched fingers, falling jacks, and sudden tension releases are common risks. To minimize danger:

• Wear gloves and steel-toe boots
  
• Use jack stands or blocks, never rely solely on hydraulic lifts
  
• Keep hands clear of the idler when releasing tension
  
• Avoid working alone in case of emergency
  
• Inspect the new track for defects before installation
  

Terminology note:

• Track lugs: The internal ribs that engage with sprockets and rollers.
  
• Sprocket teeth: The drive wheel components that mesh with track lugs to propel the machine.
  

Choosing the Right Replacement Track
Not all rubber tracks are created equal. Factors to consider:

• Pitch and lug spacing: Must match the sprocket and roller configuration
  
• Width and tread pattern: Affects flotation and traction
  
• Reinforcement layers: Steel cord or Kevlar improves durability
  
• Warranty and brand reputation: Cheaper tracks may wear faster or delaminate
  

In a 2023 study by Equipment World, premium aftermarket tracks lasted 18–25% longer than budget options, especially in abrasive conditions like gravel or demolition sites.
Preventive Maintenance to Delay Replacement
To extend track life and reduce replacement frequency:

• Clean tracks daily to prevent mud buildup and premature wear
  
• Avoid sharp turns on hard surfaces that cause delamination
  
• Maintain proper tension—too tight strains components, too loose derails the track
  
• Inspect rollers, sprockets, and idlers for wear during routine service
  
• Store machines on dry, level ground to prevent track deformation
  

One contractor in Ontario reported that by implementing a weekly track inspection checklist, he reduced unexpected failures by 40% over a year.
Conclusion
Changing tracks on a Bobcat is more than a maintenance task—it’s a test of patience, technique, and safety awareness. While the process may seem straightforward, the reality involves tight spaces, heavy components, and mechanical nuance. With the right tools, preparation, and respect for the machine’s design, operators can turn a frustrating job into a manageable routine. And as Bobcat continues to innovate with features like automatic tensioning and modular undercarriages, the future of track maintenance may finally become less of a wrestling match.