Track Problems in Mechanical Systems

Track Problems

• Accelerated wear on one side of the final drive sprocket teeth caused by track misalignment, loose track, or sprocket misalignment from improper installation.
• Accelerated wear on the idler or rollers due to track misalignment or idler misalignment from improper installation.
• Track pins, bushings, and track links experience accelerated wear from tight track adjustment, misalignment, excessively worn sprocket teeth, or high-speed operation.
• Loss of draw bar power caused by improper track adjustment or overly tight track.
• Dozer drift in either direction when moving straight, resulting from improper track adjustment, uneven track tension, track misalignment, or steering clutch adjustment needed.
• Frequent track packing during operation linked to improper or overly loose track adjustment.
• Noisy track operation attributed to improper or loose track adjustment.
• Excessive track whipping occurs when track adjustment is improper or too loose, or if the idler is seized in the retracted position.
• Track can be thrown off during operation due to improper track adjustment or excessive looseness.

Operation - Brakes

• Brakes assist steering clutches for turning the machine.
• Each brake operates with assistance from a hydraulic control mechanism.
• Both brakes can remain engaged via a PAW on the brake linkage.
• Engaged brake band operates as mechanical linkage drives the hydraulic control mechanism piston.
• Released brake pedal allows springs to adjust the mechanical linkage and brake pedal, detaching the brake band from the steering clutch drum.

Hydraulic Control Mechanism

• The relief valve cools and lubricates brakes while controlling oil to brake bands at a specific pressure.
• Oil pressure over 50 PSI triggers a valve movement, allowing excess oil to flow to the left steering clutch compartment.
• Relief valve regulates oil pressure to both the hydraulic control valve and the brake mechanism.

Brake System Faults and Adjustment Procedures

• Adjust brakes according to the manufacturer's equipment manual for accurate procedures.
• Parking brakes need adjustment per the manufacturer's specifications.
• The engagement mechanism of the brake requires specific adjustment procedures as outlined in the manufacturer’s manual.

Mechanical Steering Components & Operation

• Key mechanical components include bearing cage, hub, pistons, inner drum, springs, steel discs, disc assembly, and pressure plate.
• Engaged steering clutches exert pressure through springs to transfer power from the inner drum to the outer drum.
• Disengaged clutches allow hydraulic pressure to move pistons outward, disengaging the clutches.
• Hydraulic control valve receives pressure oil from the transmission oil pump, controlling oil flow to steering clutch pistons.

Steering System Faults & Adjustment Procedures

• Equipment may not turn in one direction due to incorrect steering control linkage adjustment, clutches leaking, or low oil pressure.
• A damaged spine on the steering clutch may prevent equipment rotation when both clutches are engaged.
• Slow steering may result from worn or damaged brake linings.
• Adjustments for control linkages should follow the manufacturer's equipment manual.

Brake Components & Operation

• Key brake components include spring, brake lock pawl, ratchet, brake band strut, and brake engaging mechanism.

This quiz covers issues related to accelerated wear in track systems, particularly focusing on the final drive sprocket, idlers, and rollers. Participants will explore the possible causes of track misalignment and the effects of improper installation. Perfect for those seeking to understand mechanical wear in track-driven machinery.