Track Alignment

One of the most important factors to check to ensure a good service life is correct track alignment. All the rollers should be central to a line from the sprocket tooth center to the front idler center.

Another vital check is that all bottom track rollers are level. Misalignment from wear, bearing failure, or a distortion in track frame causes uneven distribution of the weight among the rollers. Rapid failure will occur with uncorrected uneven load distribution. A new bottom roller should never be used along with worn ones.

A simple field test to check the load distribution is to drive the machine on a hard surface for about 1 km (5/8 mile). Check the rollers for correct oil level prior to this test. Feel each roller with your hand and note the temperature of each one, any rollers that feel hotter than the others would indicate that they are carrying more than their share of the load.