Skid steer&three point attach

[jpw]

Now that tracks have been mentioned, I have been looking at those also. Does anyone have tracks from the small manufacturers such as the ones on Ebay (@$400) or know how good they are compared to the ones from the big companies (@$2500-$3500). Or I suppose I could weld a winch on the machine /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif
I don't have a whole lot of time on a skid, I'm sure theres methods of getting out. I cant get stuck with my excavator. I got a rental SSL stuck once and took me a while to dig out. I ended up using a big log under my bucket to push out of the muck. I thought a set of tracks would be good, but there are several types and prices, and as someone mentioned, they may be a pain if they go on and off a lot. /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif

 

[tpaulson]

I have wondered about the chain type tracks like the ones on eBay also. I have a set of Loegering http://www.loegering.com/ tracks on my skidsteer that need to be replaced/repaired. The link pins are getting very worn and I no longer have enough adjustment to tighten them. They have been great tracks and have held up very well. They actually outlasted the first skidsteer and are currently on the second skidsteer.

With the cost of new Loegerings at the $2500 to $3000 range, the chain type tracks look like a resonably priced alternative.

All of the companies that manufacture chain type tracks, show them installed very tight. There is no sag on top in between the tires. Manufactures like Loegering and Grouser recommend 1 to 3" of sag with their tracks in order to prevent excessive strain on the axils. Do the chain types have to be that tight in order to prevent them from rolling off in turns do to the flexibility of the chains? Loegering and Grouser have solid metal links on the sides instead of chain.

 

[tpaulson]

I heard back from Eel River Steel. Here is their reply:

I noticed that your pictures show the tracks installed very tight(no sag in between the tires). Manufacturers like Loegering and Grouser recommend a 1 to 3" sag when using their steel side link type tracks in order to prevent excessive strain on the axils.
</font><font color="blue" class="small">( Typical Grouser brand tracks weigh in about 1000 lbs give or take. They use the weight sagging between the tires to keep the tension. Eel-Trax weigh about 250# a side. The chain has to be under tension to make up for the weight difference.)</font>

Is strain on the axils not a problem with the chain type tracks?
</font><font color="blue" class="small">( The only reported problems are when someone has axles that are not correctly fastened to the machine. Then the tracks can slide the axles sideways within the adjustment range. Please call 1-800-404-6978 during CST business hours if there are any other questions. )</font>