What are the tracks on an excavator called, and what do they do?

Expert Answer

The tracks on an excavator are usually called undercarriage tracks or track chains, depending on the part you mean. They are the steel or rubber ground-contact system that supports the machine, spreads its weight, and gives it traction on soft, uneven, or rough terrain.

On a crawler excavator, the track assembly includes more than just the visible belt or shoes. It also works with rollers, idlers, sprockets, and the tensioning system to keep the machine moving and aligned. That is why worn tracks can cause poor tracking, vibration, noise, or even derailing if the undercarriage is not maintained.

In practical terms, tracks help an excavator travel without sinking as easily as a wheeled machine and improve stability while digging and swinging. Steel tracks are common on heavier machines and harsher ground, while rubber tracks are often used on mini excavators and compact machines where surface protection matters. If you are checking a machine, look at track tension, shoe wear, roller wear, and idler condition together, not separately.

VANROCK Track Solutions supplies undercarriage parts for excavators and other tracked machines through an appointed dealer network, with pricing quoted on request. If you need replacement track chains, rubber tracks, shoes, rollers, idlers, sprockets, or track bolts and nuts, fitment should be confirmed against the machine model and undercarriage size before ordering.

Answered by VANROCK specialists · Published 10/6/2026