D3b track removal

Bbarre · Jul 18, 2014

Hey guys I need to change out a sprocket on my dozer. What do I need to do to get track off? Do you just take out a pin and unbolt a pad? Is there a master pin or a certain place in general to look for? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Bob Rooks · Jul 19, 2014

My advice is to get a manual. They are available.
Assume you don't have the segmented sprocket, otherwise you wouldn't be asking this.
The master link used to have a countersunk mark in the track pin. A hydraulic track press is required for removal, although back in the day we used a 16# sledge hammer and a drift. Make sure you back off the tensioner.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsY9NONorW8

Bbarre · Jul 19, 2014

Thanks bob. No I don't have a segmented sprocket. Wish I did. I'll look for the master pin today. I'll probably try the sledge and drift pin first. I've got a buddy that's got a puller for the sprocket. Thanks a lot for the info.

Bbarre · Jul 19, 2014

I still have the original owners manual. Seems like it talked about backing off the tensioner but never saw anything about removing the pin or anything.

Bob Rooks · Jul 19, 2014

I was twenty years old when I worked for a Cat dealer. Cat was just coming out with the track presses (made by OTC I think) at the time. I strongly recommend renting one over using a sledge.

Bbarre · Jul 19, 2014

Ok. I'll see what I can come up with. My dad use to work for OTC. I'm sure it would be a lot easier.

Arc weld · Jul 19, 2014

A D3B should have a split master link. Then you just take the 4 bolts out that also hold the (special) master link track pad on. Look for the solid link on the track. If not, maybe there's enough slack to loosen the track and just pull it off without taking a master link out? A portable track press would be the easy way if you can get a hold of one. I put new sprocket rims on my 931B. Measured carefully and cut the old teeth off with a torch. Beveled the hub and the new tooth ring and welded them on in place. You have the option of segmented teeth but I think you need a different hub. To get the hub off, you need about a 20 ton puller as it fits on taper. If your rails are worn will wear out a new sprocket a lot faster.

Bbarre · Jul 19, 2014

Thanks a lot arc weld. Didn't get a chance to mess with it today. Changed out all the pins and bushings on the blade and that turned in to a pretty good chore. Try and mess with it the next chance I get.

Arc weld · Jul 20, 2014

I took the track frames off and did the undercarriage by myself. A friend helped with the sprockets since I didn't have a welder or torch set up at the time. Having a backhoe on the back made it easy to lift the whole machine up to get the track frames off and then pull the new tracks underneath with the skid steer.

I pulled the engine and trans. out as well...twice.:smiley_aafz: Now I need to get into the steering clutches and that's not a job I'm looking forward to.