News - How to Replace Excavator Track Shoes and Key Precautions

I. Core Operation Process‌

Site Preparation‌

Select a flat, firm surface and clear debris/sediment from the track assembly (to prevent deformation during installation).

Removing Old Track Shoes‌

Relieve track tension: Loosen the grease fitting on the tension cylinder to release track pressure.

Knock out track pins: Position the master pin joint at mid-height and drive it out with a hammer or press (significant force required for interference fit).

Installing New Track Shoes‌

Prioritize sprocket alignment‌:

Lift track shoes with the bucket, align with sprocket grooves, and use iron rods for adjustment.

Sectional assembly‌:

Drive one track side to straighten the chain, compact links with carrier rollers before installing the idler wheel.

Bolt tightening‌:

Use power tools to tighten connection bolts (4 per shoe)—avoid manual tightening.

II. Key Precautions‌

Safety Protection‌

Wear goggles during disassembly (flying pin risk); use mechanical aids for heavy components.

Loosen grease fittings ≤1 turn to prevent high-pressure grease ejection injuries.

Adaptability Adjustments‌

Select material by application: steel shoes for earthwork, rubber shoes for road surface protection.

Adjust tension: Tighten on hard ground, loosen on muddy/uneven terrain.

Tools & Precision‌

Prioritize plasma cutters for shoe trimming (oxy-acetylene may cause deformation).

Grease to standard tension after installation (10-30mm mid-track sag).

III. Special Scenario Handling‌

Complete track derailment‌:

Jack up chassis → Drive one track toward idler wheel → Hook track with bucket teeth to lock into sprocket.

Carrier roller replacement‌:

Simultaneously check roller seals to prevent mud ingress causing misalignment.

Note‌: For complex conditions (e.g., trapped mine debris), halt operation for cleaning to avoid shoe cracking.

Following these procedures improves replacement efficiency and extends track life. First-time operations should be supervised by experienced personnel.