Tensioning crawler tracks on mobile machines
In order to ensure that tracks last the lifetime of your machine, they need to be correctly maintained.
Not having the correct track tension can cause the tracks to climb off the sprockets, which is a major job to refit.
Loose tracks can result in damage to the rollers, idlers, or track sprockets, leading to unnecessary expenses and loss of production.
Below are a few tips to help ensure this does not happen to your machine.
Checking chain tension
Place a straight edge on top of the track from the drive sprocket roller to the carrier roller (skid plate) and check the droop of the track chain in the centre.
If the track sags more than 15 mm, it must be tensioned.
Figure 1 below shows the crawler track with a straight edge between the drive sprocket and the carrier roller (skid plate).
Figure 1: Taken from Strickland maintenance and installation manual
Figure 2: Shows the grease pump and the grease adapter fitting
Figure 3: Shows the location of the grease valve
Figure 4: Shows the grease valve where the grease adapter must be fitted
Tensioning tracks
A grease pump with a suitable grease adapter, relative to the nipple on the tensioner, must be used.
A general-purpose EP2 grease may be used to pump tension into the track cylinder.
Pump the track tension cylinder five times, then remove the grease pump and track the machine one length forward and one length back.
Re-check the tension afterward.
