How to fit Clark Tracks
SAFETY FIRST Tracks should only be fitted by trained operators. Assess all risks and ensure personal safety prior to track installation.
When first supplied, tracks are in four quarter section lengths requiring two sections to be joined to make up one full track. Tracks are manufactured in standard lengths for each tyre size and may be too long, requiring the removal of one full track plate section prior to fitting in order to obtain the correct tension. (This is dependent upon whether the track is fitted to new or worn tyres and can also vary due to machine type and bogey design).
ALWAYS ENSURE TYRES ARE INFLATED TO CORRECT PRESSURES PRIOR TO FITTING TRACKS
Stage 1
The operator lays out the track with the track paws face down.
Stage 2
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A good quality strong rope (20mm dia nylon) is attached to the centre of the last track plate and fed over the middle of the bogey tyres, the excess rope is placed under the second tyre where it is jammed for traction grip. KEEP PERSONNEL CLEAR OF MOVING MACHINES |
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Stage 3
| The machine is driven forward with the wheels biting the rope, the track is pulled onto the rear wheels. |  |
Stage 4
| The track is pulled over to this position where two ‘C’ staples are placed either side of the track and the rope removed. |  |
Stage 5
| The machine is then driven forward to this position with the two staples holding the track tension in the centre of the bogey. |  |
Stage 6
| The track fitting tool is placed to one side of the track and a ratchet used on the tool to tighten the track. The ‘C’ staple is removed and a track joining link fitted. The process is then repeated for the other side of the track. Note: A 3/4" drive ratchet spanner is required to operate the tensioner tool. Ensure the tool is correctly and safely fitted to the tracks prior to tensioning. |  |
Fitting of track joining links
| These links must be fitted with the smooth surface of the link face towards the tyre, with the end plate fitted to the outside. Fitting of these links the wrong way around can result in tyre damage with the link pins contacting the tyre side wall. |  |
Stage 7
| Ensure correct track tension. Dimension A = 40 to 70mm sag. |  |
SAFETY: KEEP PERSONNEL CLEAR OF MOVING MACHINES. OPERATORS MUST WEAR ADEQUATE PERSONAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT WHEN FITTING TRACKS. (EYE PROTECTION, GLOVES ETC). TRACKS SHOULD BE FITTED TO MACHINE ON LEVEL FLAT GROUND. !! WARNING !! TRACKS SHOULD NOT BE HIT WITH A HAMMER OR OTHER TOOL SINCE SHARP FRAGMENTS CAN FLY OFF CAUSING DANGER TO PERSONNEL. THIS IS DUE TO THE HARDENED STEEL USED IN TRACKS. TAKE CARE WHEN CLIMBING ON MACHINES - EXERCISE SAFETY AT ALL TIMES.