Cat^® Mini Excavator: How to Install Rubber Tracks

Estimated read time: 2 minutes

Tracks for Your Equipment

When it’s time to replace and install rubber tracks on your equipment, you may want to do it yourself. If you’re not sure whether you can keep operating on your current tracks, we have a video that can help you out. You’ll learn how to spot excessive wear and how to maintain them to slow that wear.

Below, you’ll learn how to remove and install rubber tracks on a Cat^® 304 Mini Hydraulic Excavator.

Preparing for Service

Park your excavator on firm, level ground and shut off the engine. Always wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to keep yourself safe during maintenance.

Lower the attachment to the ground and elevate the track you’re removing. Support the machine with suitable cribbing or a lifting device.

How to Remove Rubber Tracks

Place a jack to support the weight of the track.
Remove the track adjustment cover.
Turn the grease fitting counterclockwise to release track tension.
Use a pry bar to move the track from the roller frame onto the jack.

How To Install Rubber Tracks

Using the same jack and pry bar, position the new track into place.
Make sure the links are engaged with the drive sprocket teeth.
Turn the fitting clockwise so it’s ready to accept grease again.
Pump in grease to tighten the track.

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How to Confirm the Proper Tension:

Position the track joint mark under the center track roller.

Measure the sag from the bottom of the center roller to the surface on top of the track.

Refer to your Operation and Maintenance Manual for the correct sag measurement.

Add or release grease as needed.

Get the parts you need at Parts.Cat.com, or learn more about Cat rubber tracks.

Q: How do you remove rubber tracks on a Cat mini excavator?
A: First, support the track with a jack. Remove the adjustment cover, then release tension by turning the grease fitting counterclockwise. Use a pry bar to move the track off the roller frame onto the jack.

Q: How do you install rubber tracks on a Cat 304 Mini Hydraulic Excavator?
A: Use a jack and pry bar to position the new track. Ensure links engage with the sprocket teeth. Turn the fitting clockwise, then pump in grease to tighten.

Q: How do you check rubber track tension on a Cat mini excavator?
A: Position the track joint mark under the center roller. Measure the sag between the bottom of the roller and the top of the track. Compare to your Operation and Maintenance Manual and adjust grease as needed.

Q: What safety steps should you follow before changing tracks?
A: Always park on level ground, shut off the engine, use the implement to lift the track off the ground, and add cribbing or a lifting device for stability. Wear proper personal protective equipment at all times.

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