What are tracks on an excavator called, and why does the machine use them?

Expert Answer

An excavator with tracks is usually called a crawler excavator or tracked excavator, and the tracks are called track chains, track shoes, or rubber tracks depending on the design. The track system gives the machine low ground pressure, better traction, and stable movement on soft or uneven ground.

In everyday use, people often say “Baggerketten” in German, but in English the correct term is “tracks” or “undercarriage tracks.” Steel undercarriages use track chains with shoes; compact machines often use rubber tracks. The exact naming can also depend on the part you mean: track chain, track shoe, rollers, idlers, or sprockets all belong to the undercarriage.

If you are identifying a replacement part, the safest approach is to check the machine brand, model, and the measurements or part markings on the existing track assembly. VANROCK supplies undercarriage parts for 350+ machinery brands through an appointed dealer network and quotes pricing on request. If the machine is a Caterpillar, Komatsu, or another OEM brand, note that VANROCK is an independent manufacturer and is not affiliated with the OEM.

So the short answer is: the machine is called a crawler or tracked excavator, and the “chains” are part of its undercarriage track system.

Answered by VANROCK specialists · Published 10/17/2026