Usage:
All Models With Sealed And Lubricated Track
Correctly assembled sealed and lubricated track is usually stiff and hard to handle until it has been installed on a machine and flexed to loosen it. Many servicemen will hit the ends of the pins with a sledge hammer to loosen the track joints. This practice can result in early seal failure, oil loss, premature dry joints, and significant reduction in track life.
When the track is correctly assembled, the links are pressed onto the pins until the thrust rings are held tightly against the bushing ends (see illustration). The desired total clearance between these assembled parts (end play) is zero which will make the track tight and difficult to flex. Maximum allowable end play is .13 mm (.005"). When track is assembled this way, the assembled seal height is the same as the thrust ring height and the seal is compressed enough to retain oil. Excessive end play in the joint reduces the compression and the seal's ability to retain oil. Excessive end play is one common cause of loss of oil in the track joint and resulting failure.
During normal operation, there may be a gradual increase in the end play. This can reduce the seal's compression to the point where it will no longer retain oil and result in a dry joint. Any end play built into the track at assembly or introduced before the track is installed on the machine can reduce the useful service life of the track. Striking the end of the pin will introduce a significant amount of end play into the track joint and can result in early failures. Although it is more difficult to handle, leave the track tightly assembled to increase track life.
Sealed and lubricated track.