Replacing Undercarriage on Bulldozers – A Step-by-Step Guide to Maximize Lifespan and Minimize Downtime

The undercarriage of a bulldozer is one of the most crucial—and expensive—components of the machine. Supporting the entire weight of the dozer while propelling it across rough terrain, the undercarriage is subjected to constant wear. If neglected, it can severely impact performance, fuel efficiency, and stability, eventually leading to catastrophic failure.

Industrial & Mining Services (IMS) specializes in field and shop replacement of bulldozer undercarriages, including track chains, rollers, sprockets, and idlers. In this guide, we break down the full step-by-step process of replacing a dozer undercarriage, using best practices for CAT, Komatsu, Deere, Case, and more.

Why Undercarriage Replacement Matters

• Reduces fuel consumption and vibration
• Improves grading accuracy and machine stability
• Prevents catastrophic failure and downtime
• Extends overall machine service life

Signs Your Bulldozer Undercarriage Needs Replacing

• Excessive track sag
• Sharp or worn-down grousers
• Dry or leaking rollers and idlers
• Hooked or cupped sprocket teeth
• Abnormal noise or vibration
• Frequent tensioning adjustments

Equipment IMS Uses

• Hydraulic jacks and cribbing blocks
• Torque wrenches and impact tools
• Track press for chain service
• Track tension gauges
• Mobile crane-equipped service truck

Step-by-Step Process to Replace a Bulldozer Undercarriage

Step 1: Pre-Inspection and Worksite Prep

• Walkaround inspection
• Bushing wear and sprocket measurement
• Roller leak checks
• Surface prep and machine lockout

Step 2: Lifting and Track Removal

• Track guards removed
• Grease tensioner relief
• Master pin split
• Tracks walked off or lifted away

Step 3: Removing Rollers, Idlers, and Sprockets

• Carrier and bottom rollers unbolted
• Idlers removed and seals inspected
• Sprockets removed from final drive

Step 4: Installing New Components

• New track chains, rollers, idlers, sprockets installed
• All components torqued and lubricated
• Threadlocker used where needed

Step 5: Track Assembly and Tension Adjustment

• Tracks aligned and master pin reinstalled
• Tension charged using grease gun
• Machine test-rolled to verify alignment

Step 6: Final Function Test and QC

• Walk test and directional check
• All fittings greased
• QC checklist signed off

Project Snapshot: CAT D6T Undercarriage Replacement

Item	Details
Model	CAT D6T LGP
Hours	6,500
Repair Type	Full undercarriage
Turnaround	1–2 days
Components	Tracks, rollers, idlers, sprockets

Undercarriage Parts We Replace

• Track chains and shoes
• Rollers (top and bottom)
• Sprockets
• Front idlers
• Track tensioners and seals
• Master pins and bushings

Field and Shop Options

• Onsite service with mobile techs
• In-shop service with full track press
• Fleet wear tracking and rebuild kits

Safety Protocols

• Machine lockout and cribbing blocks used
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) worn
• Fall protection and torque safety compliance

SEO-Focused Keywords

• bulldozer undercarriage replacement
• dozer track change out
• field undercarriage service
• track chain install bulldozer
• replace dozer rollers and sprockets

Client Testimonial

“IMS replaced our D6T undercarriage on-site in two days flat—everything was torqued perfectly and running smooth. They saved us a full week of downtime.”
– Maintenance Supervisor, Macon GA

Book Dozer Undercarriage Service Today

If your bulldozer is sagging, shaking, or derailing, it’s time for a fresh undercarriage. IMS serves Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, and beyond with expert field and shop repair.

Contact Industrial & Mining Services today to request a quote or schedule a field technician.