A track tractor will exhibit a higher level of flotation in wet conditions and ride smoother on rough fields than a tire tractor. This is because of the tracks' ability to bridge over ruts and irregularities rather than dropping into them like each set of tires on a tire tractor; however, when crossing ditches or waterways, the bridging effect of tracks creates different characteristics. As the tracks tractor rides up to the top of the ditch or levee, it will teeter forward and drop down on top of the road surface or field.
Track tractors are more maneuverable than tire tractors. The 9030T Series Tractor has the ability to counter-rotate, providing a zero turn radius. They also have the ability to make turns even when the tractor is stationary. With the shift lever in neutral, forward, or reverse and the clutch pedal fully depressed, the tractor will counter-rotate when the steering wheel is turned, providing the ability to make small side-to-side adjustments when hooking up implements. Because the 9030T Series Tractors have the ability to counter-rotate when making turns, it will cause berming when turning on end rows. Also, when turning on end rows with an implement that is hooked to the drawbar, it is possible to jackknife the tractor into the implement. Special care should be taken to prevent this from happening. It is recommended to make two 90-degree turns when making headland turns. Make two short turns, leaving plenty of room between the track and the implement. This will also reduce the berming and crop damage that is caused by tracks when making sharp headland turns.
9030T Series Tractors will exhibit a higher level of straight-ahead drawbar pull when operating at the same weight-to-horsepower ratio as a tire tractor. However, when turning under load, such as following contours or waterways, most track tractors will exhibit some speed loss. 9030T Series Tractor engines can provide up to 10 percent power boost at engine speeds above 1200 rpm during turns in order to minimize any speed loss. It simply requires more power to turn a tracked tractor than it does to turn a wheeled tractor pulling the same load. To improve steering performance when under load, follow these recommendations:
Use gradual turns (larger turn radius) or small frequent turns (ratchet- or bump-steering). Add ballast if slip is greater than 5 percent. Reduce the load and/or downshift. Allow drawbar sway with towed implements. Allow hitch sway with 3-point implements and carry implement weight with gauge wheels.
When operating on road surfaces where traction is less than optimum such as ice, wet black tops, or gravel roads, transport speed should be reduced in order to maintain steering control.
Tracks tractors have a harsher ride than a tire tractor on hard surface roads due to a lack of the suspension system that the air inside tires provides. Just like a tire tractor, it is important to have proper balance on the tractor in order to attain the best possible performance and steering control.
Due to the unique operating characteristics of the track tractors, the 9030T Series Track Tractors are not recommended for scraper applications. If a scraper operator has the need to operate with a machine at 12-ft width or less, the 9030 Series 4WD Tractors with 76x50-32 flotation or 78x45-32 logger single tire should be considered.
Tracks and tires both have strong performance features, depending on the application. Do a needs analysis prior to making a choice.
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Track vs. 4WD John Deere
