TRACK MAINTENANCE
Before attempting to complete any part of this
Track Maintenance section, it is recommended
that you read all three parts (Track Removal,
Track Replacement and Track Tensioning) to
provide background on how the total Tr a c k
System is adjusted and maintained.
Below are a series of drawing to aid you in parts
identification as you read the following
procedures. For clarity, only the parts described
in the instructions are included in most of the
photos. In some cases, certain parts do not
appear in all drawings, to lessen confusion.
CAUTION
: When working with the Tracks,
you will be dealing with some significant
weights and lifting situations. Though the Crawler
can be successfully "blocked up" off the ground
and the Tracks removed and replaced by a single
person, it's advisable to have an able-bodied
"helper" available for both assistance and safety.
Begin any Track Maintenance procedure by
checking that your Track System is relatively
clean and free of debris...a high-pressure wash
job is an excellent idea. In addition, drive your
Crawler through a "clean area" to work out debris
that may have lodged between Track Sprocket
teeth or in the Track's Chain Links. Park your
Crawler on a firm level surface, shut off engine,
set brake and dismount.
TRACK REMOVAL
From below, support body of Crawler so its Tracks
clear the ground by approximately 2" and are free
to rotate...release Brake at this time. Use solid
blocking and place it under the Crawler's body so
that it will give the Crawler the greatest support
left to right and front to rear. [When locating your
blocking, analyze the total weight and balance of
the Crawler as it will change as the Tracks are
removed and then replaced!
NOTE
: As you work with the Tracks, realize
that the more you can support the "lower
strand" of each Track and keep it flat and
close to its original operating level, the more
slack you will have in the "upper strand" of the
Track to work with!
Loosen and remove the first 1/2" Nut and Lock
Washer from the threaded end of each #1030
Tension Rod.
By rotating the "nut end" of each #1030 Tension
Rod counter-clockwise, loosen and remove
remaining 1/2" Nut, #235 Washer and #234
Spring. Slide #2065 Axle fully rearward.
With gloved hands, begin to rotate the Track
forward. [TIP: As you rotate the Track work the
Track Clutch Controls back and forth to relieve
internal pressure].
As the Track is rotated forward, work the forward end
of the Track outward. Stop working the Track outward
when the Track's Inner Chain is centered between the
Inner & Outer Sprockets of the Front Idler...see below.
In a similar manner, rotate the Track rearward
making sure that the Track's Inner Chain remains
between the Inner & Outer Sprockets on the Front
Idler.
This time work the rearward end of the
Track over both the Inner & Outer Sprockets of the
Rear Drive...see drawing below.
