Skid Steer Tracks: What You Need & When to Buy Them

Find the Right Skid Steer Tracks for Your Bobcat Loader

Not all skid steer tracks are created equal—and they’re definitely not all the same size. We’re here to help you figure out what fits your machine, when it’s time to replace your tracks, and why the C-pattern option is the best choice for your Bobcat® skid steer. Let’s get into it! 

Skid Steer Tracks vs. Tires: What’s the Difference?

Ever wonder why so many people go with a compact track loader (CTL) instead of a skid steer with tires? For most jobs, it comes down to three things: traction, stability, and better control on uneven ground. 

Rubber tracks grip better when the ground is soft or uneven. They keep the machine steady when you’re lifting or turning. And, with more contact on the ground, you’ll see better control when grading or hauling across slopes. If you mostly work on hard-packed surfaces—like concrete or gravel—a wheeled skid steer is a good choice. But if you’re dealing with mud, sand, or loose ground, tracks are the better move. 

Already leaning toward a compact track loader? Let’s talk about CTL tracks—because they’re not all the same. 

C-Pattern Tracks: What They Are and Why They Work

C-pattern tracks are our favorite by a long shot. They hold up across the wide mix of terrain we see in Texas. We’ve watched them perform consistently on soft turf, loose gravel, rocky surfaces, and thick mud—sometimes all on the same ranch. Around here, job site conditions can change fast, so a single, all-purpose tread makes the most sense. 

We also like Bobcat C-pattern tracks because they’re durable. They grip well, wear evenly, and last for a long time, even if you’re working in extreme conditions. They hold their value. That’s why our customers prefer them—and why we only stock C-pattern tracks at all our locations. 

Wide vs. Narrow Tracks: What’s the Difference?

Track pattern is important, but that’s not the only factor you have to consider. If you’re running a T64, T66, or T76, think about whether you need wide or narrow tracks. That choice can make a big difference depending on the kind of ground you’re working on. 

Narrow tracks come standard on most Bobcat compact track loaders. They handle a wide range of jobs, especially on hard-packed soil, gravel, compacted base, and even grass or turf. 

You’d only switch to wide tracks (1) if you need more float or (2) if you want to avoid tearing up the surface. Wide tracks give you more ground contact, which makes it easier to move heavier machines across soft, muddy, or sandy ground. If you’re doing landscaping finish work or operating in clay-heavy soil, wide tracks are worth considering on the T64, T66, or T76. 

How Long Do Skid Steer Tracks Last?

If you’re using the compact track loader correctly, most tracks last between 1,200 and 1,600 hours—but that depends on how you treat them. Want to make yours last longer? Here’s what we’d do: 

• Don’t spin or take fast, tight turns 

• Keep the tracks clean—mud and gravel will cause problems over time 

• Check your tension regularly 

• Avoid running over abrasive materials like asphalt, concrete edges, or rebar 

• Go easy on the travel speed 

But, if you’re consistently running your skid steer on asphalt or concrete, you should expect shorter track life. In short: the smoother you run them, and the better you take care of them, the longer your tracks will last.  

How to Tell If You Need New Tracks

You don’t have to be a tech to know when it’s time for replacements. But knowing how a track’s built helps you spot when it’s breaking down. 

Each track is made with a tough rubber layer on the outside to resist gouging, plus a softer inner rubber layer for flexibility. Inside, steel cables help distribute tension evenly, and steel embeds (or links) guide the sprocket for smoother operation. When these parts start to wear out, you’ll notice any or all these problems: 

• Cracking, chunking, or missing tread 

• Loss of traction or sliding when turning 

• Uneven wear or exposed cords (especially along the roller path) 

• A rougher ride than usual, often due to internal cable or link fatigue 

If you’re seeing these signs, your track’s structure isn’t doing its job anymore—and it’s time for a new set. BUT we still haven’t talked about one key sign of wear: track tensioning. 

How Tight Should Skid Steer Tracks Be?

Your tracks should have just enough slack to sag slightly in the middle—usually about 1 to 2 inches of drop between the track and the bottom roller when the machine is lifted. Too tight, and you’ll wear out the rollers and drive motor. Too loose, and the track could derail. 

When a track is wearing out, tension gets harder to maintain. That’s usually a sign the internal cables are stretched or broken, or the rubber has degraded too much to hold tension. You might notice uneven sag and frequent derailments, or you might find yourself re-tightening more often than usual. If that sounds like your machine, then it’s a good time to buy new skid loader tracks. 

Why It’s Worth It to Buy Tracks from a Dealer

You could absolutely order Bobcat tracks online, but it’s hard to know what kind of quality you’re getting. A cheaper track might look fine at first glance, but if it wears out fast, you’ll end up spending more money in the long run. Buying tracks directly from your dealer gives you better value overall.  

At Bobcat of North Texas, we’ve tested just about every track Bobcat makes—including the higher-end versions. We’ve stocked those in the past, but we found that the standard C-pattern has the best all-around value for our customers here locally. It holds up across all kinds of job sites and delivers the kind of lifespan and performance our people need—giving you the best option for your hard-earned dollars. Our Parts team will make sure you get the right fit for your machine. We only stock OEM (original equipment manufacturer) tracks, so you’re guaranteed to get the best quality and durability. If you’re ready to get started, talk to your local Bobcat of North Texas location. 

Skid Steer Track Installation

Tracks aren’t easy to install—especially if one pops off in the middle of a job. They’re heavy, awkward, and tough to get right without the right tools. And if a track derails on-site, you’re pretty much stuck. That’s why we offer both in-shop and field service. If you can bring your machine in, our techs will get the new tracks on and get you back to work fast. Or, if you can’t move the skid steer, we’ll come to you with what you need. 

Give us a call to schedule a track install. 

Buy Skid Steer Tracks at Bobcat of North Texas Today

Need new tracks? Call the Parts department at your nearest Bobcat of North Texas location. We’ll help you find the right fit for your Bobcat skid steer!