As the owner or operator of an excavator, when you’re faced with the task of replacing the sprocket, it’s natural to wonder if you’ll also need to replace the track chain (also referred to as the track chain or track). In most cases, replacing a sprocket without considering the condition of the track chain is like buying new running shoes while keeping the old, worn-out insoles — they might not fit well together, and you might not get the full benefit of the new gear.

Here’s why considering a new track chain might be necessary when changing the sprocket:

Wear and Tear Match:
Sprockets and track chains wear down together since they’re always in contact. If you put a new sprocket on an old chain, the worn chain may not mesh well with the new sprocket teeth, leading to decreased efficiency and potentially causing premature wear on the new sprocket.

Maximizing Lifespan:
If your current track chain is relatively new or shows minimal wear, it might be fine to just replace the sprocket. But if the track chain is significantly worn, it’s generally a good idea to replace both parts at the same time. This way, you’re resetting the wear life of both the sprocket and the track chain, which helps ensure you get the maximum lifespan out of both.

Performance Considerations:
An excavator is only as reliable as its undercarriage. If the track chain is worn, even a new sprocket won’t be able to perform at its best, which may affect the excavator’s digging performance and track alignment.

Cost Efficiency:
Think about the costs. Replacing a track chain is more expensive than replacing a sprocket, but doing both at the same time can be more cost-effective in the long run. This is because you can save on labor costs and prevent future downtime that would occur if you had to replace the track chain soon after replacing the sprocket.

Safety:
Safety should be a primary concern. A worn track chain might break, which can lead to accidents or damage to the excavator. Therefore, if there are any signs of significant wear, addressing them proactively is the safest approach.

Manufacturer’s Guidelines:
Always check your excavator’s manual or consult the manufacturer. They often provide specific advice on when to replace sprockets and track chains based on the wear patterns and operational hours.

Professional Inspection:
A visual inspection by an experienced mechanic can tell you a lot. They can measure the wear on your track chains and sprockets and provide a recommendation. Some worn chains can be ‘turned’, which extends their usable life, but this isn’t always possible.

In summary, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but if you’re replacing the sprocket because it’s worn out, there’s a strong chance that your track chain is also due for replacement. Doing both at the same time can save you time and money down the line and help keep your excavator running smoothly. Always base your decision on a thorough inspection and consider the overall condition of your undercarriage when planning maintenance or replacements.

Fulian Operation Team

2024.2.10