Over the tire tracks take the functionality of your skid steer to the next level.
Good skid steer tracks can double the potential power of your machine, essentially transforming a skid steer into a fully operational compact loader.
The tracks accomplish this because they run over the top of the tires. This allows the machine to meanuever and grip better on the most difficult of terrains without spinning the wheels.
There are a wide range of over the tire tracks on the market, so it’s not always obvious which ones to go for.
We’ve put together a quick review of some of the best widely available tracks to cut through the clutter.
The Basics
Before we elaborate on the top brands, there are some best practices that you should be aware of.
When To Use Tire Tracks
Over the tire tracks are most useful when you need to drive your skid steer over difficult terrain. This includes snow, mud, waterlogged ground, as well as soft or loose surfaces like gravel.
Having tracks in place allows you to use your skid steer without the need for a compact track loader or other substitute equipment.
Advantages
Without tracks, you may have had to rent or buy a compact track loader whenever the conditions were less than ideal. Investing in some high quality over the tire tracks will make for less hassle and save you money with greater utility and flexibility from your existing equipment.
The tracks are simple and easy to install – virtually all models take less than an hour to set up with only two people.
Important Information
Before you go ahead and purchase your tracks, you need to make sure that you have the correct information about your skid steer so that you get the right fit.
It may be wise to check with the handbook or the manufacturer of your skid steer if you are unsure of the exact measurements.
Different skid steers have different wheel sizes, spaces between the wheels, and varying layouts so you must get appropriate over the tire track design.
You absolutely need to know your tire width as most brands require 3 inches (7.5cm) of clearance space around the tire for proper installation.
Further, think about what material you want your tracks to be made of. Tracks tend to be available in steel, rubber, or a combination of the two. The surface conditions you’ll be taking your vehicle over should be taken into consideration. Is there going to be debris, jut outs, or sharp edges?
Over The Tyre Tracks Brand Reviews
OUR TOP PICK
EDITORS CHOICE
BEST VALUE
OUR TOP PICK
Bobcat Genuine
Bobcat makes over the tire tracks in both steel and rubber, available in 10 inches and 12-inch tire widths. Bobcat can also provide any requisite wheel spacers.
These spacers can help create the clearance space around the tire, making installation easier.
EDITORS CHOICE
Camso by Michelin
Camso makes tracks that we think might be the quickest ever to install. With a bit of practice, it should take no longer than 20 minutes. The quick and easy installation does not mean that these are poor-quality tracks. The tracks are rubber, with a fixed iron core that connects to an internal traction rib.
Camso has calculated that using these tracks will increase the flotation of your skid steer by over five times.
The tracks will also add a huge amount of traction for your vehicle and are excellent for use over wet, muddy, or snowy terrain.
BEST VALUE
Grizzly
Grizzly tracks come in a range of sizes, all of which can be easily installed with one person.
All tracks by Grizzly are American-made, immediately suggesting high quality, and feature an open double bar design with Grade 80 long link chains. The traction from these tracks is almost unparalleled.
RUNNER UP
Grouser
Grouser tracks will half the ground pressure of your skid steer, making navigating on difficult terrain a walk in the park.
The tracks also come with traction bars that are strengthened by induction and built-in length adjusters, allowing them to easily fit most machines. Grouser tracks are also quick to install and remove – you can have them up and running in less than 30 minutes and off again within the next 10.
RUNNER UP
McLaren Industries
McLaren has been producing over the tire tracks for over 20 years and their experience is detectable in their products. We love the rubber tracks for their versatility. These are made with steel enriched with manganese at the base with pins and links made with unique steel that is rich in chromium.
McLaren also offers over the tire track products in high-traction, heavy-duty, and budget-friendly ranges. There will be something for everyone from McLaren Industries.
RUNNER UP
Midwest Equipment
Over the tire tracks from Midwest Equipment are made from rubber and are designed with gravel and other stoney terrains in mind.
They also come with Midwest’s patented heating system, helping to prolong the life of the tires even in the coldest of conditions.
RUNNER UP
Prowler Tracks
If you are going to drive your skid steer in harsh environments, opt for over the tire tracks from Prowler.
They are made with both chromium and manganese components for strength without creating a cumbersome machine.The durability of these tracks does not make them impossible to install – Prowler estimate that they can be fully attached to your skid steer in under an hour.
RUNNER UP
Trident Traxter
Trident’s over the tire tracks are compatible with any machine of the correct size – you are not limited to just your skid steer.
The tracks are reinforced with a high flotation profile to help navigate your machine with ease on the wet and slippy ground. If you need some other accessories for your skid steer, why not check out their other products. Trident sells a mounting assistance toolkit, bolt-on rubber pads, and wheel spacers to keep your skid steer in top working condition.
Final Thoughts
For operating your skid steer in more challenging terrain, we recommend that you invest in some over the tire tracks to make handling easier.
Be sure to shop around and check out some different brands to find a set of tracks that will suit your needs and your equipment. We have put together a list of the best over the tire track manufacturers to help you get started!
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