Whether you’re looking at any brands crawler tractor, need tractor tracks, or just want to know the difference between tracked vs wheeled tractors, this article is for you.
We discuss the pros and cons of each type, hope it could help you on some points.
Pros & Cons of Tyre vs Track Tractors
If it’s time to make a new machine purchase this year or next, it’s important you invest wisely. Take a look at the pros and cons of tracked vs tyre tractors to get a better idea of which may suit your needs.
Benefits of Track Tractors
Smoother ride on rough fields
More stability on hillsides
Better flotation
Better maneuverability
Higher level of tractive efficiency over a wider range of soil conditions
Easier implement hookup
Minimal ballast changes and no tire pressure to adjust
No power hop
Can't go flat
Downsides of Track Tractors
Reduced steering control under heavy draft load (following terraces, contours)
Rough ride and/or vibration on hard surfaces
Can’t change tread spacing
Soil berming and more crop damage on end rows
Higher upfront cost
Slower in transport mode than tyres
Benefits of Tyre Tractors
Better turning under load
Smoother hard-surface ride
Easier to change out tyres for different uses
Less cost upfront
Faster transport
Downsides of Tyre Tractors
Not great in muddy/wet conditions
Higher slippage
Bumpier ride than tracked, except on hard surfaces
Power hops
Possibility of going flat
Tracks Vs Tyres On The Field
So how do tracked tractors measure up to wheeled tractors on the field?
Wet/Dry Conditions
Both tyres and tracks work similarly for a range of conditions. However when it comes to very wet soil, tracks provide much better traction than tyres. In these cases, you also have to consider their impact on the soil.
Tyres provide better traction in dry conditions, but have to work a little harder in wet soil and may sometimes leave ruts. Tracks won’t leave ruts.
Manoeuvrability
According to John Deere, track tractors are more maneuverable than tyred tractors. This is because they have the ability to zero-turn on the spot, great for moving at the end of crop rows. However, doing so will require more care and precaution as there is a risk of jack-knifing the tractor and the implement attached to the drawbar.
Compaction
Now we’re getting to the nitty-gritty. There is lots of debate around tracked and wheeled tractors and the comparison of how they rate in compaction. And since compaction can cause unnecessary soil degradation, you’re probably looking at buying tracked for this reason.
Here is the comparison chart for compaction to soil of tires and track system for reference.
Tracks and tires both have strong performance features, depending on the application. Do a needs analysis prior to making a choice.
