ForConstructionPros.com

Working in deep mud. Traveling through abrasive sand. Pushing snow. Maneuvering on uneven terrain. Handling these difficult conditions is all in a day's work for many compact track loaders.

"While uneven terrain, slopes and muddy or snowy ground conditions can be very challenging and tough on skid-steer loaders, compact track loaders are designed and built to handle these types of conditions," says Jodi Gulbraa, product marketing specialist, Terex ASV. "Correct operation of your compact track loader will ultimately determine overall efficiency and performance of the machine."

"Contractors have found unbelievable numbers of applications to test the versatility and performance of a compact track loader," adds David Steger, product and training manager, Takeuchi. "This is fueled in part by their size and the availability of attachments. But the main factors are the traction and power delivered by these workhorses. These aspects often result in the machine being placed in very demanding conditions… while still providing the productivity other machines can only dream about."

Critical components
The tracks and undercarriage (rollers, idlers, sprockets and track chain) are primary reasons why a compact track loader can successfully navigate in rugged applications and conditions.

"The undercarriage is as important to the machine as the attachment or engine, [since] it is the combination of components that brings the machine to its assigned task," says Dave December, brand marketing manager, New Holland. "Without the undercarriage, a compact track loader can do limited work."