Bobcat E80: From Shredded Rubber to Steel—A Maine Ledge Conversion That Just Works
Location: Waterboro, Maine
Machine: Bobcat E80
Work conditions: heavy Maine rock and ledge
Problem: multiple sets of rubber tracks torn up ($8k–$10k per set)
Solution: convert to steel tracks using existing sprockets, rollers, and idlers
The Backstory
Our customer in Waterboro works his E80 on raw ledge and fractured rock. Rubber tracks simply couldn’t hang—chunks, cuts, and downtime added up to many thousands in replacement costs. He asked the question we hear all the time:
“Can I convert my rubber-track E80 to steel tracks without changing sprockets, rollers, or idlers?”
Answer: YES. On this modern Bobcat platform the rubber track dimension maps cleanly to a compatible steel chain and shoe package—no undercarriage component swaps required. We verified fit from the serial and shipped a matched steel kit.
Why Steel Here?
- Abrasion resistance: steel shoes and hardened pins/bushings shrug off sharp ledge that shreds rubber.
- Side-hill bite & stability: grouser profile digs in where rubber slips.
- Lower cost per hour: fewer change-outs and less downtime when your ground is basically a rock saw.
The Install (Customer Walkthrough)
1) Lay out the new steel track on level ground with shoes facing the right direction.
2) Set the E80 onto the rail (blade/boom assist + safe cribbing).
3) Wrap the chain over the sprocket and idler.
4) Temporary alignment: slide a smaller-diameter steel rod through the bushing to hold the ends together.
5) Smart trick: the customer removed one steel shoe to gain clear visibility and swinging room for the hammer.
6) Support the link: he used a bench vise upside-down as a support under the joint so the chain won’t flex while driving the master pin.
7) Drive the master pin, reinstall the shoe, set track tension, and go to work.
“My E80 feels and sounds more like a tank now.”
Exactly what you want when every day is rock and ledge.
FAQ
Do I need new sprockets, rollers, or idlers?
For the E80 shown here, no—the steel track package matches the stock undercarriage. (We always confirm pitch/link count by serial.)
Is the machine louder on steel?
Yes—steel transmits more sound and “tank-like” feel. That’s normal and welcome in abrasive rock where durability wins.
What about street work?
Add bolt-on rubber pads to protect asphalt and concrete, then remove for ledge/rock.
Can I switch back to rubber later?
Yes. As long as components are within wear spec, you can swap between rubber and steel and re-tension.
Call for a Same-Day Quote
SteelTracks.com supplies Bobcat E80 steel track kits (shoes, chains, hardware) plus sprockets/rollers/idlers if you want to refresh everything at once.
Office: 360-906-0109
Cell: 360-518-6088
Email: [email protected]
- Buy online: VIQAN.com
SteelTracks.com is an informational portal operated by VIQAN LLC—your one‑stop source for rubber and steel undercarriage parts.