Choosing Tracks for a Kobelco SK80

[MikePhua]

Summary
For the Kobelco SK80CS excavator, replacement track options include OEM rubber tracks, aftermarket rubber tracks, and hybrid steel-rubber designs. OEM tracks offer ideal fit and durability but are costly and hard to source. Aftermarket and hybrid options provide budget flexibility but require careful compatibility checks.
Kobelco SK80CS Background and Market History
Kobelco Construction Machinery, a division of Kobe Steel Ltd. founded in 1905, introduced the SK80CS as part of its compact excavator lineup in the early 2000s. Designed for urban and utility work, the SK80CS features a short tail swing, advanced hydraulic control, and a comfortable operator station. Its popularity grew in North America and Asia due to its reliability and maneuverability in tight spaces. By 2010, Kobelco had sold over 15,000 units globally in the 8-ton class, with the SK80CS becoming a staple in landscaping, municipal maintenance, and light construction.
Track Types and Their Characteristics
Operators seeking replacement tracks for the SK80CS typically consider three main options:

• OEM Rubber Tracks
  These are factory-original tracks designed specifically for the SK80CS. They offer precise fit, optimal tension, and long wear life. However, OEM tracks can cost 2–3 times more than aftermarket alternatives and are often difficult to source due to limited production runs.
  
• Aftermarket Rubber Tracks
  Brands like Solideal and Valuepart offer compatible rubber tracks at significantly lower prices. While some aftermarket tracks match OEM quality, others may suffer from premature wear or poor fit. Key parameters to verify include:
  • Pitch: 52.5 mm
    
  • Width: 450 mm
    
  • Number of links: typically 72–74
    
  • Tread pattern: zigzag or block depending on terrain
    
• Hybrid Tracks (Steel Chain with Rubber Pads)
  These combine steel durability with rubber surface protection. Ideal for mixed-use environments, hybrid tracks reduce surface damage on pavement while maintaining strength for rocky terrain. Downsides include increased weight and more complex installation.
  

Cost Comparison and Availability

• OEM rubber tracks: $3,000–$4,500 per set
  
• Aftermarket rubber tracks: $1,200–$2,000 per set
  
• Hybrid steel-rubber tracks: $2,500–$3,200 per set
  

Availability varies by region. In the U.S., aftermarket suppliers dominate due to cost efficiency. In Japan and Europe, OEM parts are more accessible through authorized dealers.
Real-World Anecdote
In Pennsylvania, a small excavation company faced downtime when one of their SK80CS tracks was sliced by rebar during a demolition job. Unable to find a matching used track, they opted for a full set of aftermarket rubber tracks from Solideal. The new tracks lasted over 1,200 hours with minimal wear, saving the company nearly $2,000 compared to OEM replacements. The owner noted that “fitment was tight but manageable, and traction on wet clay was surprisingly good.”
Maintenance Tips and Installation Advice

• Always measure the existing track’s pitch and width before ordering replacements.
  
• Inspect sprockets and rollers for wear; mismatched components accelerate track degradation.
  
• Maintain proper tension: too tight increases wear, too loose risks derailment.
  
• For hybrid tracks, ensure pad bolts are torqued correctly to avoid pad loss during operation.
  

Recommendations

• For residential or landscaping use, aftermarket rubber tracks offer the best value.
  
• For demolition or mixed terrain, hybrid tracks provide durability and surface protection.
  
• For long-term fleet use or resale value, OEM tracks may justify the higher cost.
  

Conclusion
Selecting the right track for a Kobelco SK80CS involves balancing cost, durability, and application needs. While OEM tracks offer unmatched precision, aftermarket and hybrid options provide viable alternatives for budget-conscious operators. With proper installation and maintenance, even non-OEM tracks can deliver reliable performance across diverse job sites.