Perform Track Systems Break-In

Break-In Overview

Avoid roading at high speeds with a new set of tracks and wheels, especially during first 50-100 operating hours. Damage to drive lugs and wheels may result.

Track systems break-in takes place during first season of use. Correct break-in helps reduce amount of initial drive lug wear. During break-in, drive lugs and idlers undergo a “polishing in” process which:

• Scours out excess rubber flash inside drive wheels.
• Embeds fine dust particles in rubber surfaces to remove tackiness of new rubber.

Surface polishing reduces frictional heating in tracks system. During break-in, new rubber surfaces require contact with a dry lubricant such as soil. Avoid high speed operation (roading or higher speed tillage) where track system is run in absence of dust generated by dry soil contact (wet conditions or paved roads). Operating in these conditions for lengthy periods may cause excessive early hour drive lug wear.

Perform initial break-in and alignment before any high-speed tractor operation. Excessively clean frictional track components (belts, drive wheels, front idlers and mid-rollers) can generate significant heat if run unlubricated. This heat is capable of damaging components. Break in and align new components as outlined.

Initial Break-In

Avoid track and track system component damage. Before driving tractor on road for first time, pre-condition tracks with loose soil or clay based lubricant. Repeat application of lubricant or soil at least every 50 miles until destination is reached.

After installation of new or cleaned track belts or other frictional components, expose clean components to materials to lubricate and break them in.

• Work tractor in field in loose soil for at least 15 minutes.
• If tractor cannot be exposed to loose soil, use a “clay based” granular material (clay based lubricant, kitty litter, oil-dry absorbent or talc powder) to introduce a “joint” area between drive wheels and belts continuously for at least 15 minutes.

After Break-In

After initial 100 hour break-in and alignment, long-term break-in process (up to 400 hours) will likely occur. During this period, maximize exposure of tracks to soft soil and minimize high speed, heavily loaded transport operation.