Ag Tirack Talk is a blog where James Tuschner asks tracks manufacturers and other industry experts for their opinions and advice on key topics in the world of ag tracks. This edition focuses on track specs.

Camso

David Graden: Operational Market Manager – Agriculture

Farming applications, from one region to another, are all very unique and the machines used are also unique from one manufacturer to the next. Therefore, Ag tracks are also a bit complicated.

Over the decades, Michelin’s Camso has created an extensive line of tracks to fit virtually any application. We manufacture both positive and friction drive tracks for all major machine brands. Each track is also specifically designed for the machine weight, horsepower and application, by manufacturer. These specifications will include varying carcass thickness (which include cables, alignment and reinforcement plies), drive lug shape, size and spacing, and tread bar differences for varying applications.

Due to the many different variations and tractor fitments, the track identification numbers and part numbers are also a bit complicated. Every Camso track is stamped with a track identification number on the outside edge of the track belt and consists of the following:
/ext/resources/images/2024/Tire-image-1.png

For the part number, there are two different formats:
/ext/resources/images/2024/Tire-Image-2.png
/ext/resources/images/2024/Tire-Image-3.png

Please see your Camso distributor/dealer for help finding the right track to match your local conditions and applications.

Trackman by Loc Performance

Dan Fullenkamp

Reading the track width and track circumference is typically the same for all manufacturers, but there are two different ways to write it: e.g. 252”x 36” or 36”x 252”

The larger number is the length of the track if you were to cut it and lay it flat. The smaller number is the width of the track. Tracks to date have been most prevalent in the US and are therefore in inches, although popularity is growing outside of the U.S.

Similar to tires for a vehicle, the owner should refer to the OEM documentation for guidance on the proper track for their equipment as physical sizes of the drive/guide lug can differ from application to application. All tracks of a given size do NOT have a universal drive/guide lug, and proper guide/drive lugs are critical for best track life.

Regardless of the undercarriage type, the width of the track must be large enough to support the wheel of the undercarriage. Improper support of the wheels can damage the track and potentially damage the wheels as well. Wheels should be properly sized to track width as well, refer to OEM documentation.

The length and drive lug specifications for a positive drive undercarriage is especially critical due to the tooth and gear engagement of the track with the drive wheel. If not correct, the wheel can damage the track and cause it to fail. For the friction drive undercarriage, the track length is important for the tension settings to keep the track in place.

As always, to ensure correct fitment, please contact your local Trackman by Loc Dealer.

Soucy Track

Eric Halstead, Eng: Rubber Tracks Technical Expert / Agricultural Products

Unfortunately, AG tracks do not have standardized naming conventions like tires for their size and capabilities. The fit between a vehicle and a track might be trickier than it appears at first look.

For example, for a positive drive track, the number of drive lugs and an “approximate” pitch length may not be enough. Other factors will influence the correct meshing of the track on the sprocket, like the position of the neutral axis in the track belt, the track elongation under high tractive effort, and the exact pitch length (never exactly 6 inches). Drive lug size (width and height) can be checked quickly to make sure there is no interference between the inside of the track and the undercarriage. The weight it can support and the speed at which the vehicle could go is also very important, and there is unfortunately no way to know if a track, even with exact same dimensions, can support a specific application. Number of plies or belting thickness are false indications and should not be used as equivalence factors.

My best advice is to consult manufacturers websites and look for vehicle compatibility lists, or contact manufacturers engineering to establish the application compatibility with specific application: http://info.soucy-track.com/compatibilities-list-download

All information is provided in this blog solely to provoke thought. All deductions made from information on this site must be confirmed by Certified Ag Track Dealer before use. Ag Track Talk does not recommend anyone conduct track service work with exception of Certified Ag Track Dealer Professionals.

Related Content:

Are 45 Degree Lugs Best for Ag Tires?,

Ag Tire Talk: Friction Drive vs. Positive Drive & Other Tire Track Takeaways,

Ag Tire Talk: IF/VF vs. Standard Tire Technology