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Machine Background and Track Basics
The Mustang MTL25 is a compact track loader built for robust utility in construction, landscaping, and agricultural environments. With an operating weight around 10 692 lbs, about 96.6 hp diesel engine power, and a dependable undercarriage designed for traction in mud, dirt, and rough terrain, it occupies a niche similar to compact tracked loaders from brands like Bobcat, Case, and Takeuchi. Its track size is 450×100×50 — meaning 450 mm width, 100 mm pitch, and 50 links — a common track standard shared by several machines including variants like Takeuchi TL150, allowing parts interchangeability if properly specified.
Rubber tracks on machines like the MTL25 are engineered to wrap around the drive sprocket, idlers, and rollers to deliver traction and flotation. They must be correctly sized and tensioned to stay engaged with the undercarriage components. The modern rubber track comprises a durable rubber compound reinforced with continuous steel cords and molded lugs for traction; poor fitment or defective manufacturing can lead to premature failure or operational issues.
Symptoms of Tracks Falling Off
One of the most frustrating problems operators face is when new rubber tracks seem to come off their machine repeatedly. In documented cases, a loader’s new Camoplast HD tracks — despite being adjusted to and even tighter than the recommended service manual tension — came off more than a dozen times in roughly 50 service hours. In some instances, one track disengaged three times in a single day, even though the original tracks had never fallen off. When the operator confirmed that sprockets and alignment appeared normal and tension was correct, the repeated detachment pointed toward a deeper issue than simple adjustment.
Possible Track Quality Issues
A critical angle of this discussion is the origin and quality of the replacement tracks. Camoplast acquired certain Korean track designs originally supplied by companies like Taeryuk, which were previously noted to have quality issues. In some equipment circles, these legacy tracks earned a reputation for being difficult to keep on machines, prompting other large equipment undercarriage manufacturers (such as Loegering) to discontinue using them after reliability problems. Despite the “Camoplast” label, the core track profile and compound may still reflect the old design rather than a modern high‑performance build.
This links to broader market observations: some aftermarket tracks emphasize features like reinforced steel guide wings, advanced rubber compounds, and anti‑detracking systems to keep the track engaged while under load or when turning. Tracks with these engineered guide ribs and reinforced roller paths show less risk of slipping off in tough applications.
Common Contributing Factors
When tracks won’t stay on, several mechanical factors deserve inspection:
To prevent tracks falling off a compact loader like the MTL25, consider the following disciplined approach:
Across job sites and equipment forums, many operators assert that maintenance discipline often prevents the majority of track derailment issues. Some anecdotal field experiences highlight the importance of cleaning out huge mud buildup around idlers and rollers — a frequent cause of unexpected tension loss and derailment in wet conditions. In another instance with heavy rain affecting a compact loader undercarriage, operators found that compacted mud pushed the track off its intended path when combined with slight misalignment. Regular pressure washing and greasing at intervals can mitigate this risk.
Overall, while track quality matters, many recurring derailments stem from fitment mismatches or minor undercarriage misalignments that become pronounced once new tracks are in place. Combining precise mechanical inspection with correct tensioning and choice of high‑quality tracks often results in a stable undercarriage that stays on even in rigorous use.
Conclusion
Tracks falling off a Mustang MTL25 — even with new Camoplast HD tracks — is rarely a trivial issue. It reflects a combination of fitment accuracy, undercarriage condition, track construction quality, and routine maintenance. By confirming exact track specifications, verifying proper tension per factory guidelines, inspecting rollers and idlers for wear, and choosing reputable track designs with reinforced anti‑detracking features, operators can significantly reduce the likelihood of derailments. With this systematic approach and attention to detail, track loaders like the MTL25 can deliver reliable performance across diverse terrains without frustration from tracks coming off.
The Mustang MTL25 is a compact track loader built for robust utility in construction, landscaping, and agricultural environments. With an operating weight around 10 692 lbs, about 96.6 hp diesel engine power, and a dependable undercarriage designed for traction in mud, dirt, and rough terrain, it occupies a niche similar to compact tracked loaders from brands like Bobcat, Case, and Takeuchi. Its track size is 450×100×50 — meaning 450 mm width, 100 mm pitch, and 50 links — a common track standard shared by several machines including variants like Takeuchi TL150, allowing parts interchangeability if properly specified.
Rubber tracks on machines like the MTL25 are engineered to wrap around the drive sprocket, idlers, and rollers to deliver traction and flotation. They must be correctly sized and tensioned to stay engaged with the undercarriage components. The modern rubber track comprises a durable rubber compound reinforced with continuous steel cords and molded lugs for traction; poor fitment or defective manufacturing can lead to premature failure or operational issues.
Symptoms of Tracks Falling Off
One of the most frustrating problems operators face is when new rubber tracks seem to come off their machine repeatedly. In documented cases, a loader’s new Camoplast HD tracks — despite being adjusted to and even tighter than the recommended service manual tension — came off more than a dozen times in roughly 50 service hours. In some instances, one track disengaged three times in a single day, even though the original tracks had never fallen off. When the operator confirmed that sprockets and alignment appeared normal and tension was correct, the repeated detachment pointed toward a deeper issue than simple adjustment.
Possible Track Quality Issues
A critical angle of this discussion is the origin and quality of the replacement tracks. Camoplast acquired certain Korean track designs originally supplied by companies like Taeryuk, which were previously noted to have quality issues. In some equipment circles, these legacy tracks earned a reputation for being difficult to keep on machines, prompting other large equipment undercarriage manufacturers (such as Loegering) to discontinue using them after reliability problems. Despite the “Camoplast” label, the core track profile and compound may still reflect the old design rather than a modern high‑performance build.
This links to broader market observations: some aftermarket tracks emphasize features like reinforced steel guide wings, advanced rubber compounds, and anti‑detracking systems to keep the track engaged while under load or when turning. Tracks with these engineered guide ribs and reinforced roller paths show less risk of slipping off in tough applications.
Common Contributing Factors
When tracks won’t stay on, several mechanical factors deserve inspection:
- Incorrect Track Size or Specification
Tracks must match model‑specific size tolerances exactly. A mismatch — even within a couple of millimeters in width or link count — can cause the track to ride incorrectly on sprocket, idler, or roller surfaces, leading to detaching under tension. Double‑checking the purchase size against service manual specifications and on‑machine measurements prevents this misfit.
- Track Tension and Adjustment Issues
Too loose a track clearly makes detachment easier, but surprisingly, a track that is over‑tensioned can also climb off. Excessive tension can distort the track path, especially during turns or over uneven ground, causing it to ride up and unseat from idlers or sprockets. Proper tension is measured per manufacturer specs — not by eye — and verified after running.
- Undercarriage Wear or Misalignment
Even if sprockets and rollers look good to the naked eye, slight wear patterns or structural misalignment can generate enough deviation to encourage detrakings. A worn idler or carrier wheel that doesn’t hold the track at the correct angle, or marginal sprocket teeth wear, subtly alters track path geometry. Over time, what seems like acceptable wear can become a root cause of recurring derailment.
- Track Compound and Manufacturing Defects
Some rubber tracks, especially lower cost or inherited legacy designs, may not flex or engage consistently under load. Uneven rubber hardness, improper steel cord placement, or asymmetry in guide lugs result in a tendency for the track to “walk off” the running surface.
To prevent tracks falling off a compact loader like the MTL25, consider the following disciplined approach:
- Verify Track Fitment
List out:- Exact track size stamped on existing tracks or recommended in the service manual (e.g., 450×100×50)
- Number of links and pitch
- Confirm fit with a trusted parts provider if in doubt
- Exact track size stamped on existing tracks or recommended in the service manual (e.g., 450×100×50)
- Follow Manufacturer Tension Procedure
Use proper tensioning tools and procedures from the owner’s manual. Measure tension after running the tracks for several minutes to account for initial stretching.
- Inspect Undercarriage Components
Look for subtle wear that might not seem significant: worn idler flanges, developing flat spots on rollers, or slight sprocket tooth wear. Replace or rebuild as needed.
- Consider Higher‑Specification Tracks
If a particular brand repeatedly fails, try alternatives marketed with reinforced guide wings or improved anti‑detracking designs. These options often incorporate a more resilient rubber compound and structural engineering to resist derailment.
- Monitor Operating Conditions
Heavy mud, debris buildup, and excessive side loads — such as sharp turns on sloped ground — can predispose any track to come off. Regularly cleaning the undercarriage and keeping drive components free of embedded rock or clay improves tracking behavior.
Across job sites and equipment forums, many operators assert that maintenance discipline often prevents the majority of track derailment issues. Some anecdotal field experiences highlight the importance of cleaning out huge mud buildup around idlers and rollers — a frequent cause of unexpected tension loss and derailment in wet conditions. In another instance with heavy rain affecting a compact loader undercarriage, operators found that compacted mud pushed the track off its intended path when combined with slight misalignment. Regular pressure washing and greasing at intervals can mitigate this risk.
Overall, while track quality matters, many recurring derailments stem from fitment mismatches or minor undercarriage misalignments that become pronounced once new tracks are in place. Combining precise mechanical inspection with correct tensioning and choice of high‑quality tracks often results in a stable undercarriage that stays on even in rigorous use.
Conclusion
Tracks falling off a Mustang MTL25 — even with new Camoplast HD tracks — is rarely a trivial issue. It reflects a combination of fitment accuracy, undercarriage condition, track construction quality, and routine maintenance. By confirming exact track specifications, verifying proper tension per factory guidelines, inspecting rollers and idlers for wear, and choosing reputable track designs with reinforced anti‑detracking features, operators can significantly reduce the likelihood of derailments. With this systematic approach and attention to detail, track loaders like the MTL25 can deliver reliable performance across diverse terrains without frustration from tracks coming off.
