slipped one of the tracks off the other day skidding some logs. what do I need to do to get these things back on. I messed with it all day trying to get enough tension out so that I could roll them back on. As the sun worked its way down I was still S.O.L
the OC-3 still sits where she stopped waiting for a little more help.
Quote from: "gawfur"slipped one of the tracks off the other day skidding some logs. what do I need to do to get these things back on. I messed with it all day trying to get enough tension out so that I could roll them back on. As the sun worked its way down I was still S.O.L
the OC-3 still sits where she stopped waiting for a little more help.
Having done a 'field repair' last year (a link in my track was broken), I can offer the following:
Your best bet is to find the master link pin - it should have a smaller pin that fits into a hole at one end, and is bent to keep the master pin in place. Remove the pin to open up the track. Jack up the OC-3 and pull the track under the machine (make sure it isn't on backwards), then up and around, align the ends and push the pin back through the open links.
Of course, this assumes you have another piece of equipment to assist in moving the tracks, since they do weigh a few pounds... I used a short section of chain and a come-along to pull the ends together.
I found that having a couple of sheets of plywood or construction planks are a great help - the track will slide on that surface rather than digging into the soil.
Watch all the "pinch points" and don't lose any fingers - tracks are just large chains wich move in funny ways when pressure is put on them - they can snake around and bite you. Especially use caution if others are "helping".
I got a tip from an old time farmer about wedging a piece of wood between the track and front idler......then back up a certain way to get the track back in place. On my 1947 HG, we replaced the left front idler and put new front axles and bushings on both sides. I have the tracks adjusted, so there is a 2" drop in the middle. But still am careful marking hard turns when back up. My track pins are worn pretty bad too and makes the problem worse.