When fleet owners and operators think about the performance of their heavy equipment, engine behavior might come first to mind. However, the undercarriage is just as important. It carries the entire weight of a machine, determines how it interacts with the ground, and impacts productivity, operational efficiency, and maintenance costs.
Explore the impact of undercarriage on equipment performance and tips on how to get the most out of your machine.
The undercarriage’s design, whether the machine runs on wheels or tracks, impacts stability and traction. A tracked machine spreads its weight over a larger surface area, reducing ground pressure and providing traction in soft or muddy conditions. Wheeled equipment is faster on hard, smooth terrain.
The undercarriage’s condition affects operator comfort and fuel consumption. If track shoes, rollers, idlers, or sprockets are worn down, the machine works harder to move. This inefficiency may lead to higher fuel burn, slower cycle times, and frequent downtime. The undercarriage can account for up to 50% of a tracked machine’s lifetime maintenance costs. That’s half of your total service spend tied up in one system.
Improper track tension or a neglected roller can lead to unanticipated expenses. Undercarriage wear monitoring can optimize uptime and support your bottom line.
Different jobs require different equipment setups, and your undercarriage choice can determine how well your machine performs in certain environments. Here are some undercarriage types you’ll encounter.
Steel track undercarriages are commonly used in heavy-duty applications. They deliver durability and traction in rocky or abrasive settings. Excavators, dozers, and large track loaders rely on steel tracks to keep them stable on slopes and to dig into tough ground.
Steel tracks are ideal for quarry work, forestry, and other rugged surface conditions. However, if you try to use them on asphalt or landscaping projects, you may encounter problems with surface damage.
Rubber track undercarriages are common on compact track loaders, mini excavators, and skid steers. They’re versatile, delivering a smoother ride and less ground disturbance.
These tracks are ideal for landscaping, utility installation, and urban projects because they minimize surface disruption. Running them on sharp rock or demolition debris can shred them quickly.
Wheeled undercarriages offer speed and maneuverability. They’re best suited for hard, flat surfaces where productivity comes from mobility.
Wheeled skid steers and loaders are best in paved yards and light-duty construction jobs. When the ground gets soft or uneven, wheels may struggle.
Undercarriage performance depends on external factors. Ground conditions, operator habits, and maintenance practices influence how well components hold up.
Working in abrasive environments, like granite or sharp rock, expedites wear on track shoes and rollers. For example, sand can grind down bushings and links, while muddy or soft soil packs into the undercarriage, creating buildup that adds stress to idlers and can cause misalignment.
If you’ll be working in abrasive conditions, consider selecting heavy-duty track shoes and budgeting for more frequent maintenance checks. For soft, muddy sites, regular cleaning can prevent premature failures.
How an operator runs the machine determines the lifespan of an undercarriage. For example:
Encouraging operators to make wide turns, minimize unnecessary travel, and avoid excessive time on slopes can add hundreds of hours to the undercarriage’s lifespan.
Proper track tension can be tricky to achieve. Too loose, and the track slips, increasing wear on sprockets and links. Too tight, and it puts strain on bushings and idlers, consuming fuel. Manufacturers provide recommended tension settings, so sticking to them can prevent costly repairs.
If track rollers, idlers, or sprockets are misaligned, the system works inefficiently. You’ll notice uneven wear patterns on track shoes and links, which may result in equipment malfunction.
Regular inspections can catch alignment issues before they take a machine out of service.
Every jobsite presents its own challenges. Tailoring your undercarriage setup and maintenance routine ensures maximum performance and longevity. A demolition site with sharp rebar and rubble results in more wear on rubber tracks, while a swampy jobsite requires wide track shoes to reduce ground pressure and keep the machine afloat.
Landscaping in suburban neighborhoods requires minimal surface disturbance, making rubber tracks or wheels the better choice.
Routine undercarriage maintenance keeps your equipment in top shape and can help you streamline your operating budget. Below are tips for preventing undercarriage failure:
You can use telematics tools like VisionLink® to monitor equipment health remotely. These systems flag potential undercarriage problems early, allowing you to schedule maintenance services as needed.
If you notice uneven track wear, excessive vibration, or frequent de-tracking, it may be time to contact a professional to investigate further.
Maintaining your undercarriage requires expertise and proper parts. As a trusted Cat® dealer, Gregory Poole provides original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and service technicians who know your equipment inside and out.
Our parts distribution network ensures you get the right component quickly. We also carry undercarriage solutions for various equipment brands, so your entire fleet can stay productive.
Gregory Poole’s service team offers inspections, repairs, and rebuilds to extend your machine’s life. You can also explore our financing solutions to control costs. Through our service support, we provide preventive maintenance, field service, and advanced diagnostic tools support that gives you visibility into equipment health and performance.
Contact us today to learn more.