Compact track loaders are used everywhere from urban construction sites to dairy farms. For this Shop Talk Blog post, we are going to discuss answers to some common questions that come up about compact track loaders.
How Do Skid Steer Loaders and Compact Track Loaders Compare?
Even though a compact track loader looks just like a skid steer loader mounted on tracks instead of wheels, the two machines are actually very different. Skid steer loaders work better when there is a need to travel faster speeds or over rougher terrain (tires are typically cheaper than tracks). Where there is more delicate terrain or muddy conditions, compact track loaders excel. Compact track loaders are usually more stable and have better lift capacities.
However, compact track loaders are more expensive than a skid steer of comparable performance and power. Despite this, compact track loaders have been stealing considerable market share from skid steer loaders.
Are Compact Track Loaders and Multi-Terrain Loaders the Same?
While they may look very much alike, the compact track loader (CTL) is not the same as a multi-terrain loader (MTL). The design of the undercarriages is very different. The undercarriage of an MTL is suspended to achieve very low ground pressure, which in turn allows the MTL to travel faster, work on more delicate surfaces, and offer a slightly more comfortable ride for the operator. The CTL is designed for much more rugged use than the MTL and has a significantly longer life span.
Who Invented the Compact Track Loader?
The first compact track loader was developed by Mr. Akio Takeuchi. The idea for them came about during one of his visits to the United States. He noticed that skid steer loaders were not working well at all in wet, muddy conditions, and thought that he could do something to improve their design.
Takeuchi returned to Japan to work on a solution to this problem, and the eventual result was the world's first compact rubber track loader in 1986. Takeuchi remains one of the major manufacturers of CTLs, and was also the company that introduced the mini excavator.
What Are My Options When the Travel Motor on my CTL Fails?
If the travel motor on your compact track loader goes out, you have a few different options for replacing it. Your first option would be getting a brand new one from the dealer or the OEM. However, those tend to be on the expensive side. You can get a used one -- and those are the cheapest -- but that can become a very costly investment in the long run. This is because manufacturers often buy back used final drive motors, called "cores", but will reject certain motors that don't have a good chance of getting repaired. If you see one listed as a used final drive motor, it could be that a manufacturer has already rejected a buyback. Our third option is a Goldilocks option: purchasing a rebuilt or reman travel motor, or having your current motor remanufactured. If you go with a rebuilt or reman travel motor, you should end up with a travel motor that meets or exceeds OEM standards.
Conclusion
Compact track loaders are great for surfaces that are too delicate for skid steer loaders and for jobs that require more lifting power and stability. While they look similar to MTLs, CTLS are built for more rugged jobs and generally last longer. Although they only came out in 1986, they have steadily gained popularity. Today, they are the skid steer loader's top competitor.
Texas Final Drive is your partner in providing new or remanufactured final drive hydraulic motors from a single mini-excavator to a fleet of heavy equipment. Call today so we can find the right final drive or hydraulic component for you, or check out our online store to find your O.E.M. manufacturer brand motor now.
