How do I tighten or loosen the tracks on an excavator?

Expert_Answer

Track tension on most excavators is adjusted through the grease-type track adjuster behind a small cover plate on the track frame. To tighten, pump grease into the adjuster valve with a grease gun — the idler moves forward and takes up slack. To loosen, slowly crack the valve open so grease escapes and the idler retracts; never remove the valve fully, as the assembly is under high pressure. Check sag mid-span between the carrier roller and idler against your machine manual's specification, and always adjust with the track lifted or the machine on flat, clean ground. If the track will not hold tension, the adjuster seal or recoil spring may be worn. VANROCK supplies track adjusters, recoil springs, idlers and complete undercarriage parts for 54+ brands, quoted on request through its dealer network.

Answered by VANROCK specialists · Published 7/25/2026