{"id":110,"date":"2026-02-25T09:45:33","date_gmt":"2026-02-25T09:45:33","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rtc.n2rdev.in\/blog\/?p=110"},"modified":"2026-02-25T09:45:33","modified_gmt":"2026-02-25T09:45:33","slug":"how-to-fit-rubber-tracks-on-a-compact-track-loader-or-mini-excavator","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/how-to-fit-rubber-tracks-on-a-compact-track-loader-or-mini-excavator\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Fit Rubber Tracks on a Compact Track Loader or Mini Excavator\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Replacing rubber tracks may look intimidating, but with the right tools and a safe process, many operators can complete the job themselves.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether&nbsp;you\u2019re&nbsp;fitting CTL rubber tracks or mini excavator tracks, proper installation is critical. Incorrect fitting can lead to premature wear, de-tracking, and undercarriage damage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s&nbsp;a step-by-step guide to help you do it safely and correctly.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Before You Start<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you have:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The correct replacement track size (Width \u00d7 Pitch \u00d7 Links)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A grease gun\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Basic hand tools\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A pry bar\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Jack or lifting support (if\u00a0required)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Proper PPE (gloves, eye protection)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Always consult your machine manufacturer\u2019s manual before starting.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 1: Release Track Tension<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rubber tracks are tensioned using a grease-filled adjuster system.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Locate the grease fitting on the track adjuster.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Slowly release grease to reduce tension.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The front idler wheel should retract inward.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>\u26a0\ufe0f&nbsp;Be cautious \u2014 grease systems are under pressure. Release slowly and stand clear.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Reducing tension is essential before&nbsp;attempting&nbsp;to remove the track.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 2: Remove the Old Track<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once tension is released:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lift the machine slightly if\u00a0required\u00a0(depending on model).\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Slip the track off the sprocket first.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Work it off the rollers and idler using a pry bar if necessary.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Carefully remove the track from the undercarriage.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Inspect the undercarriage components while the track is off.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 3: Inspect the Undercarriage<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before installing the new track, check:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sprocket teeth (should not be sharp or hooked)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Rollers (should spin freely)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Idlers (no excessive wear or misalignment)\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Debris buildup\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Installing new tracks on worn sprockets can significantly shorten track life.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 4: Install the New Rubber Track<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Position the new track over the sprocket first.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Align it over the rollers.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use a pry bar to guide it onto the front idler.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"4\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ensure the track sits properly on all rollers and sprockets.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Take your time to ensure correct alignment.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 5: Re-Tension the Track<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once installed:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Pump grease back into the tensioner.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"2\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Adjust until proper tension is achieved (refer to your manual).\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"3\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check sag measurement as specified by the manufacturer.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>Do not over-tighten. Excessive tension can damage internal steel cords and accelerate wear.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Step 6: Run and Recheck<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After installation:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Operate the machine slowly for a few minutes.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check alignment.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Recheck tension.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make adjustments\u00a0if needed.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s&nbsp;good practice to recheck tension again after the first few hours of operation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Installing the wrong size track\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Over-tightening after installation\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Failing to inspect\u00a0worn sprockets\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Forcing the track without fully releasing tension\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ignoring alignment issues\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Proper installation protects both your new tracks and your undercarriage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fitting rubber tracks&nbsp;isn\u2019t&nbsp;complicated \u2014 but attention to detail matters.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Correct sizing, proper tension, and undercarriage inspection are key to maximizing track life and avoiding premature failure.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking the time to install them properly protects your investment and keeps your machine productive.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Need Help Choosing the Right Rubber Tracks?<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At&nbsp;<strong>Rubber Track Canada<\/strong>, we supply high-quality CTL and excavator rubber tracks built for demanding Canadian conditions.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If&nbsp;you\u2019re&nbsp;unsure about sizing, fitment, or installation, our team is here to help.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udc49\u00a0<a href=\"tel:1.888.330.4578\">Contact us today for expert advice.<\/a>\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Replacing rubber tracks may look intimidating, but with the right tools and a safe process, many operators can complete the job themselves.\u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":111,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-110","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/110","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=110"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/110\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":112,"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/110\/revisions\/112"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/111"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=110"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=110"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.rubbertrackcanada.ca\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=110"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}