6 Tips to Extend the Life of Your Crawler Excavator’s Steel Track Undercarriage

Crawler excavators are built for the toughest jobs, but without proper care, even the most durable machinery can experience costly downtime. The undercarriage, which is made up of several key components, plays a crucial role in the overall performance of your excavator, and it’s essential to keep it in top shape. Here are six expert tips for maintaining your undercarriage and ensuring that your excavator’s steel tracks last as long as possible.

1. Keep the Undercarriage Clean
   At the end of each day, take a few extra minutes to clean your excavator’s undercarriage. Dirt and debris can accumulate in the tracks, causing premature wear on vital components. In colder climates, this is especially critical, as debris can freeze and cause parts like bolts and rollers to seize. Keeping the undercarriage clean reduces the risk of damage and enhances fuel efficiency, as excess weight from debris adds strain on the machine. A simple shovel and pressure washer can work wonders to clear out the muck.

2. Inspect Your Undercarriage Regularly
   Routine inspections are vital for catching any wear or damage before it turns into a larger issue. Look out for signs of excessive wear or missing components, especially on key parts such as the drive motor, idlers, rollers, sprockets, and track chains. If you spot any oil leaks, it could indicate a problem with seals, which may lead to bigger failures in the long run. If your machine is working in tough conditions, schedule more frequent inspections to stay on top of maintenance.

3. Follow Proper Operational Practices
   Certain habits can shorten the lifespan of your undercarriage. For example, making sharp turns or aggressive pivots can cause unnecessary wear on the tracks. When working on slopes, make sure the drive motor is positioned correctly to minimize strain. Also, avoid harsh materials like rough concrete and asphalt that can damage your tracks. Training your operators to make gentle turns and select the right track width for the terrain will help reduce excessive wear.

4. Maintain Correct Track Tension
   Incorrect track tension can cause rapid wear on your undercarriage. For soft or muddy conditions, it's best to keep the tracks slightly looser. Tracks that are too tight can cause unnecessary friction, while tracks that are too loose may lead to de-tracking. Proper track tension keeps everything running smoothly and ensures that the tracks maintain their grip and efficiency.

5. Use Rubber Tracks for Sensitive Surfaces
   If you're working on sensitive surfaces like asphalt or grass, consider using rubber tracks. These are ideal for smaller excavators, providing excellent flotation and minimizing damage to finished surfaces. Rubber tracks are perfect for soft ground conditions, reducing ground disturbance while maintaining the performance of your excavator.

6. Follow Correct Digging Procedures
   Finally, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for digging. Improper digging practices can accelerate wear and tear on the undercarriage and shorten the lifespan of your tracks. The key is consistency: maintain the right posture and positioning while digging, and always adhere to the operational standards laid out by the manufacturer.

By following these six tips and sticking to a regular maintenance schedule, you can maximize the lifespan of your excavator’s undercarriage, reduce repair costs, and keep your machine running efficiently for years to come.

Remember, undercarriage maintenance might seem like an afterthought, but it’s a smart investment that pays off in fewer repairs and less downtime.

Fulian Operation Team

2025.2.13