EN 
ES How to Choose the Perfect Rubber Tracks for Your CAT Loader or Excavator: Simple Guide
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
Choosing the right rubber tracks for your Caterpillar (CAT) machine is very important. Good tracks help your machine work well, last long, and keep you safe. This simple guide will help you understand CAT rubber tracks and pick the best ones for your loader or excavator, saving you time and money. Read on to learn easy steps for making the right choice!
II. Why Picking the Right Rubber Tracks for Your CAT is So Important？
Think about shoes for yourself. You wear different shoes for running, for working, or for walking in snow. The right shoes make things easier and more comfortable. It’s the same for your CAT machine! The rubber tracks are like its shoes. Picking the perfect rubber tracks is super important for many reasons.
First, good tracks help your CAT loader or CAT excavator work better. The right grip means your machine can push, dig, and move without slipping easily. This helps you finish your jobs faster. Wrong tracks can make your machine slow and weak. Second, the right tracks keep your machine working. Bad tracks can break easily or damage other parts of your machine, like the rollers or sprockets. This means your machine stops working, and repairs cost money. Good tracks mean more uptime – more working time!
Also, good tracks can save you money in the long run. Tracks that fit your job and machine will last longer. You won’t need to buy replacement rubber tracks very often. Finally, think about comfort and safety. Good tracks make the ride smoother for the person driving the machine (the operator). Less shaking means less tired operators. Plus, tracks with good grip are safer, especially on slopes or slippery ground. Choosing correctly helps keep everyone safe.
III. Understand the Basics: What Makes Up a CAT Rubber Track?
Before choosing, let’s learn some simple things about CAT rubber tracks. Knowing these basics makes picking the right ones much easier. Tracks might look simple, but they have important parts and features.
First, let’s talk about track size. You will see numbers like 320x86x49. What do they mean?
- The first number (like 320) is the Width of the track in millimeters (mm). Wider tracks can spread the machine’s weight better, good for soft ground.
- The second number (like 86) is the Pitch. This is the distance from the center of one metal piece inside the track (called a link or core bar) to the center of the next one. It needs to match your machine’s sprocket.
- The third number (like 49) is the Lugs or Links. This tells you how many metal links are inside the track all the way around.
For CAT Compact Track Loaders (CTLs), the rubber tracks have strong steel cords and steel pieces (links) inside the rubber. This makes them very tough and durable, especially for heavy work. CAT Multi Terrain Loaders (MTLs) have a different design, often lighter and more flexible, good for delicate surfaces.
You also see different patterns on the outside of the track. This is the Tread Pattern. Think of it like the pattern on your car tires. Different patterns are good for different jobs. We will talk more about these patterns later!
IV. What Rubber Tracks Fit CAT Compact Track Loaders (CTLs)?
CAT Compact Track Loaders, or CTLs, are strong machines that work hard. They use special steel-embedded rubber tracks. CAT offers different types for different needs. Let’s look at the main choices based on the Cat guide:
· Heavy Duty Bar Tracks:
These tracks have raised bars across the tread. Imagine lines going across the track. This bar style gives extra traction (grip) especially in snow or very soft mud. They also disturb the ground less than some other types, making them a good choice for finish work, like smoothing out lawns or job sites, where you don’t want to leave big marks. They offer a good mix of grip and ground care.
· Heavy Duty Block Tracks:
These tracks have chunky blocks of rubber as the tread pattern. Think of square or rectangular shapes. These block tracks are very rugged and all-purpose. They are great for tough jobs with high impact (like bumping into rocks) and high abrasion (like working on rough concrete or gravel). If your machine works hard in difficult conditions most of the time, these durable tracks are often the best choice.
· General Duty Tracks:
Sometimes called Zig-Zag tracks because of their pattern. These tracks are designed for customers who need a good track but are also watching costs. They offer a good balance of performance and price. The zig-zag pattern works well in many conditions, from medium to low impact jobs, and it also provides good traction in snow. If you don’t push your machine to the absolute limit every day, or if budget is a big factor, General Duty tracks can be a smart option.
| Machine Model | Machine Series | Track Part Number | Track Size - Width x Pitch x Lug Count mm (in) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 239, 249 | D, D3 | 592-5444 | 320x86x49 (12.6x3.4x49) | 320 mm (12.6") Heavy Duty Block Track |
| 239, 249 | D, D3 | 561-5496 | 400x86x49 (15.7x3.4x49) | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Bar Track |
| 259 | B3, D, D3 | 592-5445 | 320x86x53 (12.6x3.4x53) | 320 mm (12.6") Heavy Duty Block Track |
| 259 | B3, D, D3 | 592-5827 | 400x86x53 (15.7x3.4x53) | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Block Track |
| 259 | B3, D, D3 | 561-5498 | 400x86x53 (15.7x3.4x53) | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Bar Track |
| 259 | B3, D, D3 | 584-7121 | 320x86x53 (12.6x3.4x53) | 320 mm (12.6") General Duty Track |
| 259 | B3, D, D3 | 593-2029 | 400x86x53 (15.7x3.4x53) | 400 mm (15.7") General Duty Track |
| 279/289 | C2, D, D3 | 593-1012 | 450x86x56 (17.7x3.4x56) | 450 mm (17.7") Heavy Duty Block Track |
| 279/289 | C2, D, D3 | 592-5828 | 400x86x56 (15.7x3.4x56) | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Block Track |
| 279/289 | C2, D, D3 | 584-7123 | 450x86x56 (17.7x3.4x56) | 450 mm (17.7") General Duty Track |
| 279/289 | C2, D, D3 | 592-5441 | 450x86x56 (17.7x3.4x56) | 450 mm (17.7") Heavy Duty Bar Track |
| 279/289 | C | 592-5830 | 450x86x56 (17.7x3.4x56) | 450 mm (17.7") Heavy Duty Block Track |
| 279/289 | C | 592-5829 | 400x86x60 (15.7x3.4x60) | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Block Track |
| 279/289 | C | 584-7124 | 450x86x60 (17.7x3.4x60) | 450 mm (17.7") General Duty Track |
| 279/289 | C | 561-5500 | 450x86x60 (17.7x3.4x60) | 450 mm (17.7") Heavy Duty Bar Track |
| 299 | C, D, D XHP, D2, D2 XHP, D3, D3 XE | 592-5830 | 450x86x60 (17.7x3.4x60) | 450 mm (17.7") Heavy Duty Block Track |
| 299 | C, D, D XHP, D2, D2 XHP, D3, D3 XE | 592-5829 | 400x86x60 (15.7x3.4x60) | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Block Track |
| 299 | C, D, D XHP, D2, D2 XHP, D3, D3 XE | 584-7124 | 450x86x60 (17.7x3.4x60) | 450 mm (17.7") General Duty Track |
| 299 | C, D, D XHP, D2, D2 XHP, D3, D3 XE | 561-5500 | 450x86x60 (17.7x3.4x60) | 450 mm (17.7") Heavy Duty Bar Track |
V. What Rubber Tracks Fit CAT Mini Excavators (MHEs)
CAT Mini Hydraulic Excavators, or MHEs (small diggers), also need the right rubber tracks. Rubber tracks help them move easily without damaging surfaces like concrete or asphalt too much. CAT offers different track options for these machines too:
· Heavy Duty Tracks:
Just like with CTLs, Heavy Duty tracks for mini excavators are built for toughness. They are ideal if your excavator works many, many hours, maybe in production digging or tough construction sites. They are made to handle the hardest jobs and last a long time, giving you good value over their lifespan. If your machine is always busy, invest in Heavy Duty.
· General Duty Tracks:
These tracks are a good fit for mini excavators that don’t work quite as many hours. Maybe you use your machine for occasional projects, or perhaps it’s an older CAT model. General Duty tracks are also a great choice if the first price you pay (initial purchase price) is very important for your budget. They still offer good performance for many tasks but might not last as long as Heavy Duty tracks under very hard, continuous use.
· Steel Tracks with Rubber Pads:
Some CAT mini excavators can use steel tracks that have rubber pads bolted onto them. This gives you the strength of steel tracks but with less ground damage and a smoother ride thanks to the rubber pads. A big benefit is that if one or two pads get damaged, you can just replace those pads, not the whole track. This can save money sometimes. These tracks also let dirt and rocks fall out easier than some rubber tracks. Check if this option is available for your specific CAT MHE model.
| Machine Model | Machine Series | Pad Part Number | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 305 CR, 305.5 CR | E2 | 163-7093 | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Pad |
| 305 CR, 305.5 CR | E2 | 3B-4508 | Washer/ 4 per Pad |
| 306 CR | 2019, 2020 | 6V-8149 | Nut (M12X1.75)/ 4 per Pad |
| 308 CR | C, D, E, E2, 2018, 2019, 2020 | 170-4419 | 450 mm (17.7") Heavy Duty Pad |
| 308 CR VAB | E2, 2018, 2019, 2020 | 095-0818 | Washer/ 4 per Pad |
| 308 CR VAB | E2, 2018, 2019, 2020 | 096-4876 | Nut (M14X2)/ 4 per Pad |
| Machine Model | Machine Series | Track Part Number | Track Size - Width x Pitch x Lug Count mm (in) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300.9 | D, VPS | 367-4063 | 180x37x72 (7.1x1.45x72) | 180 mm (7.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.4 | C | 375-5039 | 230x33x96 (9.1x1.3x96) | 230 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.5 | 1998-2005 | 234-9368 | 231.5x48x62 (9.1x1.9x62) | 231.5 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.5 | 2018, 2019, 2020 | 535-9001 | 230x48x64 (9.1x1.9x64) | 230 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.5 CR | 2002-2010 | 224-8503 | 230x48x70 (9.1x1.9x70) | 230 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.6 | 2000-2005 | 234-9369 | 231.5x48x66 (9.1x1.9x66) | 231.5 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.6 | C | 374-3462 | 230x96x35 (9.1x3.77x35) | 230 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.6 | C | 588-1636 | 230x96x35 (9.1x3.77x35) | 230 mm (9.1") General Duty Track |
| 301.7 | D | 375-5039 (fixed) | 230x33x96 (9.1x1.3x96) | 230 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.7 CR | D | 390-2333 (extendable) | 230x36x96 (9.1x1.4x96) | 230 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.7 CR | 2018, 2019, 2020 | 535-9002 | 230x48x70 (9.1x1.9x70) | 230 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.8 | 2018, 2019, 2020 | 374-3462 | 230x96x35 (9.1x3.77x35) | 230 mm (9.1") Heavy Duty Track |
| 301.8 | C | 588-1636 | 230x96x35 (9.1x3.77x35) | 230 mm (9.1") General Duty Track |
| 302 CR | 2018, 2019, 2020 | 521-4087 | 250x48x82 (9.8x1.9x82) | 250 mm (9.8") Heavy Duty Track |
| 302.4 | D | 390-2335 | 250x37x109 (9.8x1.45x109) | 250 mm (9.8") Heavy Duty Track |
| 302.5 | C | 374-3463 | 300x52.5x78 (11.8x2x78) | 300 mm (11.8") Heavy Duty Track |
| 302.5 | C | 588-1650 | 300x52.5x78 (11.8x2x78) | 300 mm (11.8") General Duty Track |
| 302.7 CR | D | 473-3014 | 300x52x82 (11.8x2x82) | 300 mm (11.8") Heavy Duty Track |
| 303 CR | E | 153-5982 | 300x52.5x84 (11.8x2x84) | 300 mm (11.8") Heavy Duty Track |
| 303 CR | E | 588-1520 | 300x52.5x84 (11.8x2x84) | 300 mm (11.8") General Duty Track |
| 303 CR, 303.5 | C, D | 382-3844 | 300x52.5x90 (11.8x2x90) | 300 mm (11.8") Heavy Duty Track |
| 303.5 CR | E, E2 | 588-2816 | 300x52.5x90 (11.8x2x90) | 300 mm (11.8") General Duty Track |
| 304 CR | 2002-2005 | 238-3231 | 400x72.5x72 (15.7x2.85x72) | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Track |
| 304 CR | 2002-2005 | 588-1535 | 400x72.5x72 (15.7x2.85x72) | 400 mm (15.7") General Duty Track |
| 304 CR | D | 344-8848 | 350x52.5x90 (13.7x2x90) | 350 mm (13.7") Heavy Duty Track |
| 304 CR, 304.5 CR XTC | E2 | 473-6511 | 350x52.5x90 (13.7x2x90) | 350 mm (13.7") Heavy Duty Track |
| 304 CR, 304.5 CR XTC | E2 | 588-3542 | 350x52.5x90 (13.7x2x90) | 350 mm (13.7") General Duty Track |
| 305 CR | 2001-2005 | 238-3231 | 400x72.5x72 (15.7x2.85x76) | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Track |
| 305 CR | 2001-2005 | 588-1535 | 400x72.5x72 (15.7x2.85x76) | 400 mm (15.7") General Duty Track |
| 305 CR, 305.5 CR | E2 | 527-2809 | 400x72.5x76 (15.7x2.85x76) | 400 mm (15.7") Heavy Duty Track |
| 306 CR | 2019, 2020 | 588-2869 | 400x72.5x76 (15.7x2.85x76) | 400 mm (15.7") General Duty Track |
| 307 | A, B | 134-7697 | 450x42x82 (17.7x3.2x82) | 450 mm (17.7") Heavy Duty Track |
| 308 CR | C, D, E, E2, 2018, 2019, 2020 | 465-9223 | 450x81x78 (17.7x3.2x78) | 450 mm (17.7") Heavy Duty Track |
| 308 CR VAB | E2, 2018, 2019, 2020 | 588-2865 | 450x81x78 (17.7x3.2x78) | 450 mm (17.7") General Duty Track |
VI. What Rubber Tracks Fit CAT Multi Terrain Loaders (MTLs)?
CAT Multi Terrain Loaders, or MTLs, are different from CTLs. Their undercarriage (the wheels and track system underneath) is designed to be very light on the ground. They are excellent on sensitive surfaces like lawns or finished landscapes.
For these machines, CAT mainly offers General Duty MTL Tracks. These tracks are specially engineered for the MTL undercarriage. They provide an excellent balance between being durable enough for various jobs and gentle enough on the ground. They are made to handle the wide range of conditions where MTLs shine – from soft dirt and grass to uneven terrain. Choosing the correct CAT General Duty track made for your MTL model ensures the machine works as intended, giving great performance without damaging surfaces. Remember, MTL tracks are different from CTL tracks and usually cannot be swapped.
| Machine Model | Machine Series | Track Part Number | Track Size - Width x Pitch x Lug Count mm (in) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 247 | A, B, B2, B3 | 420-9876 | 381x100x42 (15x4x42) | 381 mm (15") General Duty Track |
| 257 | A, B, B2, B3, D, D3 | 420-9876 | 381x100x42 (15x4x42) | 381 mm (15") General Duty Track |
| 267, 277 | A, B | 420-9878 | 457x100x51 (18x4x51) | 457 mm (18") General Duty Track |
| 277 | C, C2, D | 420-9877 | 457x100x56 (18x4x56) | 457 mm (18") General Duty Track |
| 287 | A, B | 420-9879 | 457x100x56 (18x4x56) | 457 mm (18") General Duty Track |
| 287 | C, C2, D | 420-9877 | 457x100x56 (18x4x56) | 457 mm (18") General Duty Track |
| 297 | C, D, D2, D2 XHP | 420-9877 | 457x100x56 (18x4x56) | 457 mm (18") General Duty Track |
VII. Match Tracks to Your Job: Rock, Soil, Turf, or Snow?
Your job site changes where your CAT machine works. Some days it’s hard rock, other days soft soil or grass. Maybe you work in snow sometimes. The ground condition is a huge factor in choosing the best rubber tracks. Let’s see which track types work best where, based on the Cat guide:
· Working on Rock or Gravel?
This is tough on tracks! It causes high impact and abrasion (scraping). For these conditions, Heavy Duty Block tracks (for CTLs) are usually recommended. Their chunky, durable blocks can handle the punishment better than other designs. General Duty tracks might wear out faster here.
· Working in Dirt and Soil?
Most tracks work okay in soil. Heavy Duty Block tracks offer great durability. Heavy Duty Bar tracks (CTL) can give good traction, especially if the soil is a bit soft or muddy. General Duty tracks are also suitable for general soil work.
· Working on Grass or Turf?
You want to avoid tearing up the ground. For CTLs, Heavy Duty Bar tracks often cause less ground disturbance than block tracks. For very sensitive areas, an MTL machine with its specific General Duty MTL tracks is often the best choice because MTLs are designed to be gentle on turf.
· Working in Snow?
Traction is key here! For CTLs, the Cat guide says Heavy Duty Bar tracks offer extra traction in snow compared to block tracks. The General Duty Zig-Zag tracks are also noted for having optimal traction in snow. Choose one of these if snow work is common for you.
Think about where your machine spends MOST of its time. Choose the track type that best matches that main condition.
VIII. How to Find Your CAT Machine Model and Track Size Easily
Okay, you know about track types and job sites. Now, how do you make sure you get tracks that actually fit your machine? You need two key pieces of information: your CAT machine model and the correct track size or part number. Finding this is usually simple.
First, find your exact CAT machine model number. This is usually on a metal plate or sticker somewhere on the machine frame, often near the door or the operator’s seat. It will say something like “259D3” or “305.5 CR” or “287D”. Write this model number down carefully. Also note if it has any extra letters like “XHP” or “XE”, as sometimes this matters. Knowing the machine series (like D, D2, D3, E, E2) can also be helpful, as tracks can change between series.
Once you have the model number, you can find the right track options. You can use a guide (like the PDF you provided, or guides on websites like ours!). These guides list the machine models and show the correct CAT part numbers and track sizes that fit. For example, the guide shows a CAT 259 D3 can use a 400x86x53 size track, with specific part numbers for Heavy Duty Block, Heavy Duty Bar, or General Duty versions.
Another way is to look at your old tracks. Sometimes, the track size (like 400x86x53) is stamped into the rubber on the side of the track. Be careful, as this number can wear off over time. Checking the part number against a reliable guide is often the safest way to ensure you order the correct replacement tracks. Don’t guess – getting the wrong size means the tracks won’t fit or work properly!
IX. Think About Durability vs. Cost: OEM vs. Aftermarket Tracks
When you need replacement rubber tracks for your CAT, you have choices. You can buy tracks directly from CAT (these are called OEM, Original Equipment Manufacturer tracks), or you can buy tracks from other companies (these are called aftermarket tracks). Which is better? It depends on what you value most: long life (durability) or saving money (cost).
OEM CAT tracks are designed by Caterpillar specifically for their machines. You know they will fit perfectly and meet CAT’s quality standards. They often use high-quality materials and construction, like the heavy-duty options mentioned earlier. The downside? They are usually the most expensive option.
Aftermarket rubber tracks are made by companies other than CAT. There are many aftermarket brands out there. The big advantage is that they often cost much less than OEM tracks. But, quality can vary a lot between different aftermarket brands. Some aftermarket tracks are very good, made with strong materials and good designs, offering great value – meaning good performance and life for the price. Others might be cheaply made and wear out very quickly or break easily.
So, how do you find good quality aftermarket tracks that last? Look for suppliers who specialize in tracks and understand construction equipment, like us at nissitrac.com. Ask about the materials used (like the quality of the rubber and the steel cords inside). Check the warranty offered – a good warranty shows the company believes in their product. Reading reviews or asking other machine owners can also help. Choosing a high-quality aftermarket track can save you money without sacrificing too much durability or performance.
IX. Simple Tips to Make Your CAT Rubber Tracks Last Longer
New rubber tracks are a big investment. You want them to last as long as possible! Luckily, how you operate and care for your machine makes a big difference in track life. Here are some simple tips:
· Drive Smart:
Avoid making very sharp, fast turns, especially on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt. These “counter-rotations” put huge stress on the tracks and can tear the rubber or damage the internal steel parts. Make wider, smoother turns when possible. Try not to drive sideways on steep slopes for long periods.
· Watch Where You Drive:
Try to avoid constantly driving over sharp rocks, broken concrete, or pieces of metal rebar if you can. These things can cut or puncture the rubber. Also, avoid running over curbs aggressively.
· Keep Tracks Clean:
Mud, rocks, and debris packed tightly in the undercarriage can increase wear on tracks and other parts like rollers and idlers. Try to clean out the undercarriage regularly, especially at the end of the day. This is extra important in freezing weather, as frozen mud can cause big problems.
· Check Track Tension:
Tracks should not be too tight or too loose. Tracks that are too tight cause extra wear on everything and waste engine power. Tracks that are too loose can slip off the rollers or sprocket (called “de-tracking”). Check your CAT machine’s manual for how to check and adjust the track tension correctly. It’s usually a simple procedure.
· Store Machine Properly:
If your machine will sit unused for a long time, try to park it out of direct sunlight, as UV rays can slowly damage rubber over time. Also, avoid parking it in oily or greasy areas, as these chemicals can weaken the rubber.
Following these simple tips can add many hours to the life of your CAT rubber tracks, saving you money and hassle.
IX. Ready to Choose? A Quick Checklist for Your Perfect CAT Tracks
We’ve covered a lot! Choosing the right rubber tracks might seem confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. Use this quick checklist to help you make the perfect choice for your CAT machine:
- Know Your CAT Machine: What is the exact model number and series (e.g., CAT 299D3 XE)?
- Know Your Main Job: Where will the machine work most? (Rock, soil, grass, snow, pavement?)
- Decide on Track Type: Based on your job, do you need Heavy Duty Block, Heavy Duty Bar, General Duty, or an MTL track? Think about traction needs and ground disturbance.
- Find the Correct Size & Part Number: Use your model number and a reliable guide (like the CAT guide or our website) to find the exact size (Width x Pitch x Lugs) and part number needed. Double-check!
- Compare Value and Durability: Consider OEM CAT tracks versus high-quality aftermarket tracks. Think about your budget and how long you need the tracks to last. Look for good value, not just the lowest price.
Answering these questions will lead you to the best rubber tracks for your specific needs. Taking a few minutes to choose carefully will pay off with better performance, longer track life, and lower operating costs for your valuable CAT loader or CAT excavator.
X. Conclusion
Things to Remember:
- Right Tracks Matter: They affect performance, uptime, cost, and safety.
- Know Your Machine: Get the exact CAT model number.
- Know Your Job Site: Match track type (Bar, Block, General Duty) to ground conditions (rock, soil, snow).
- Check the Size: Use Width x Pitch x Lugs from a guide to ensure fit.
- Consider Value: Compare OEM and quality aftermarket tracks for durability vs. cost.
- Drive Smart & Clean Tracks: Simple care makes tracks last much longer.
Now you know how to choose the best rubber tracks for your CAT loader or excavator. Ready to find high-quality tracks that offer great value and durability?
At Nissitrac, we make finding the right replacement rubber tracks easy. We offer a wide selection of durable aftermarket tracks designed to fit your CAT machine perfectly, often at a better price than OEM. Our team understands tracks, and we are here to help you get exactly what you need.
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