Rubber Track Sizes Explained
Rubber track sizing looks confusing at first. Numbers like 450x86x56 or 300x52.5x84N don't mean much until you understand the system. Once you do, finding the right track for your machine takes about 30 seconds.
Here's how to decode track sizes and make sure you're ordering the right fit.
The Three-Number System
Most rubber track sizes follow a simple format: Width x Pitch x Link Count
Let's break down a common CTL size: 450x86x56
- 450: Track width in millimeters (about 17.7 inches)
- 86: Pitch in millimeters—the distance between link centers
- 56: Number of links in the track
All three numbers must match your machine exactly. A track that's close but not exact won't fit.
Width (First Number)
Track width is measured in millimeters across the face of the track. Common widths include:
- 180-230mm: Mini skid steers, stand-on loaders
- 300-320mm: Compact CTLs, small excavators
- 400-450mm: Full-size CTLs, larger excavators
- 500mm+: Heavy-duty CTLs, specialty machines
Wider tracks provide more flotation and lower ground pressure—better for soft ground. Narrower tracks offer better maneuverability in tight spaces.
Pitch (Second Number)
Pitch is the distance from the center of one link to the center of the next. It must match your sprocket exactly.
Common pitch values:
- 52.5mm: Most mini excavators (Kubota KX series, Bobcat E-series, etc.)
- 72.5mm: Many compact excavators (CAT 303-305, Deere 35G, etc.)
- 86mm: Most CTLs and skid steers (Bobcat T-series, CAT 200-series, Deere CTLs)
- 96mm: Some heavy-duty excavators
If the pitch doesn't match, the sprocket teeth won't engage properly. The track will slip, skip, or refuse to mount at all.
Link Count (Third Number)
The link count is simply how many "links" or segments make up the complete track loop. Each link has one set of internal drive lugs that engage with the sprocket.
Link count determines the overall track length. Common counts range from 37 (small machines) to 90+ (large excavators).
The same machine model may have different link counts depending on undercarriage configuration. Always verify with your serial number or measure the old track.
Guide Types (The Letter at the End)
Some track sizes include a letter suffix: 300x52.5x84N or 400x72.5x74W
The letter indicates the guide lug type—the internal lugs that keep the track centered on the undercarriage.
- N (Narrow/Offset): Single guide lug offset to one side. Common on smaller excavators.
- K (Komatsu-style): Same as N—offset single guide. Used interchangeably.
- W (Wide): Wide center guide lug. Common on larger excavators.
- B (Block): Block-style guides on both sides of the drive path. Most CTLs use this.
- T (Takeuchi): Takeuchi-specific guide configuration.
Guide type must match your undercarriage. The wrong guide type will cause de-tracking, accelerated wear, or won't mount at all.
CTL vs. Excavator Track Differences
CTL/Skid Steer Tracks
CTL tracks typically use 86mm pitch with "B" style block guides. They're built to handle high torque and aggressive operation. Common sizes include:
- 320x86x52 (Bobcat T590, Kubota SVL75)
- 400x86x56 (CAT 259D3, Deere 325G)
- 450x86x56 (CAT 289D3, Deere 331G)
Mini Excavator Tracks
Excavator tracks usually have 52.5mm or 72.5mm pitch with N, K, or W guides. They're designed for digging forces and smooth travel. Common sizes include:
- 300x52.5x84N (Kubota KX040, Bobcat E35)
- 400x72.5x74W (CAT 305.5, Deere 50G)
- 350x52.5x86 (Kubota U35, Takeuchi TB035)
How to Find Your Track Size
Option 1: Check the old track. The size is usually molded into the sidewall rubber.
Option 2: Check your operator's manual or look up specifications by model number.
Option 3: Measure it yourself:
- Measure track width with a tape measure
- Measure pitch between link centers (inside the track)
- Count total links around the entire loop
- Note the guide lug style
Option 4: Use a Track Finder tool with your make/model/serial number.
Common Sizing Mistakes
- Confusing width and pitch: 400x86 and 400x72.5 are completely different tracks
- Ignoring guide type: An 84N won't work on a machine that needs 84W
- Trusting model number alone: Some models have multiple track options—verify with serial
- Mixing metric and imperial: Track specs are always metric (millimeters)
The Bottom Line
Track sizing follows a logical system: Width x Pitch x Links, plus guide type when applicable. All four specifications must match your machine exactly for proper fit.
When in doubt, verify with your serial number or measure the old track. A few minutes of confirmation prevents a costly return and delays getting your machine back to work.