By McLaren Industries 
How To Choose Replacement Rubber Tracks
Unfortunately, no set of rubber tracks will last forever. At some point, there will come a time when you need to purchase a replacement. When that time inevitably comes, there are three main factors to consider: the quality of the rubber track, the track pattern, and the reputation of the manufacturer. To ensure you make the right decision for your unique situation, follow our expert tips on how to choose replacement rubber tracks.
The Quality Level of the Rubber Track
When choosing a replacement rubber track for your machinery, there are essentially two different levels of rubber tracks that you can choose from: standard level rubber tracks and premium rubber tracks.
- Standard Level Rubber Track: Standard level rubber tracks will work well in most applications. However, they aren’t as high-quality and will generally have a shorter lifespan than premium level rubber tracks.
- Premium Level Rubber Track: While premium level rubber tracks have a higher price tag, they are designed with higher-quality materials and typically have a significantly longer lifespan.
In order to make the right decision for your replacement rubber tracks, here are some key considerations to keep in mind when deciding between standard and premium level tracks.
How Long Do You Want To Keep the Machine?
One factor to consider when choosing the ideal quality level of your replacement rubber tracks is how long you want to keep your machine for. Have you recently purchased the machinery and want to continue using it for a long time? Or do you only plan to utilize the machine for around a year or just a few months? Ultimately, how long you plan on keeping your machine will influence what level of rubber track you should purchase. For those who want to use their machine for a long time, premium level rubber tracks are the best option.
How Often Do You Use the Machine?
When choosing between standard and premium level replacement rubber tracks, you should also consider how often you use the machine. Those who use their machine sparingly will most likely benefit from purchasing the less-expensive standard level tracks, while those who use their machine frequently will likely get the most value from premium level rubber tracks.
The Rubber Track Tread Pattern
Another tip on how to choose replacement rubber tracks is to carefully consider which tread pattern will be most advantageous for your application. When choosing a tread pattern, the most important factor to consider is the type of operating environment you will use your machine in.
For example, if you plan on operating your machinery on grassy or fragile surfaces, a smooth tread that provides low ground pressure will be ideal. If you need to operate your machinery on uneven or wet surfaces, however, a track pattern that offers optimum traction, such as a TDF multibar pattern, will likely be a better option.
The Reputation of the Manufacturer
Once rubber tracks suffer damage, you can’t repair them. They are a disposable item that will need to be completely replaced. As such, it’s important to purchase a high-quality track from a reputable manufacturer to ensure the track will last—especially since rubber tracks are one of the highest maintenance costs on a tracked machine. For this reason, McLaren is a preferred source of skid steer tracks. When you purchase any of our products, you know that you’re getting something of consistently high quality. If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop that offers a wide range of rubber tracks with varying price points and tread patterns, call 800-836-0040 or contact us today.