Camso tracks are rubber or composite belts that replace wheels on heavy equipment

A Camso track is a continuous rubber or composite belt system that wraps around the undercarriage of heavy machinery — skid steers, compact track loaders, telehandlers, and similar equipment — instead of traditional tires or wheels. The track distributes the machine's weight across a wider surface area, which reduces ground pressure and allows the equipment to operate on soft, muddy, or uneven terrain where wheeled machines would sink or slip.

Camso is a brand name owned by Camso Inc., a manufacturer based in Quebec that produces tracks and tires for construction, agriculture, and industrial equipment. When people refer to "Camso tracks," they usually mean tracks made by this company, though other manufacturers produce similar products under different brand names. The tracks come in different widths, thicknesses, and tread patterns depending on the machine type and the work environment.

Key Takeaways

  • Camso tracks replace wheels on compact equipment and distribute weight over a larger area, allowing machines to work on soft or wet ground without sinking.
  • Tracks are made from rubber or composite materials and come in different sizes matched to specific machine models and job conditions.
  • The main advantage of tracks over tires is lower ground pressure and better traction in mud, snow, and loose soil; the main disadvantage is higher cost and more complex maintenance.
  • Tracks wear out over time and must be replaced; the lifespan depends on terrain, load, and operating hours, typically ranging from 500 to 2,000 hours.
  • Installation requires removing the old track system and fitting the new one to the machine's undercarriage, a job usually done by a dealer or specialist shop.

How Camso tracks distribute weight and improve traction

A Camso track works by spreading the machine's weight across the entire length and width of the belt instead of concentrating it on four or six tire contact patches. This lower ground pressure — measured in pounds per square inch — means the machine sinks less into soft ground and causes less damage to grass, crops, or landscaping. A skid steer on wheels might exert 15 to 20 pounds per square inch; the same machine on tracks might exert 5 to 8 pounds per square inch.

The rubber or composite material of the track also grips uneven surfaces better than a tire does. The tread pattern — the grooves and blocks molded into the belt — is designed to bite into mud, snow, or loose soil and pull the machine forward without slipping. Different tread patterns suit different jobs: aggressive patterns for muddy or steep terrain, shallower patterns for hard ground or paved surfaces.

The track is held in place by two or more rollers (called idler wheels or track rollers) mounted on the machine's frame. As the machine's engine turns the drive sprocket, the sprocket teeth mesh with holes or pockets molded into the inside of the track, pulling the belt forward. The track loops around the sprocket at the rear, the idler wheels along the sides, and a tensioner that keeps the belt tight.

Common Camso track types and what they are used for

Camso makes tracks for different machine sizes and job types. Skid steer tracks are the most common; they fit compact loaders like Bobcat, Case, or John Deere models and are typically 10 to 14 inches wide. Compact track loader tracks are wider and heavier-duty, designed for machines that already have a track undercarriage. Telehandler or rough-terrain handler tracks are larger and built for machines that lift loads at height.

Tracks also vary by tread pattern and material. Rubber tracks are standard and work well on most terrain; they are quieter and less damaging to pavement than steel tracks. Composite or hybrid tracks use a blend of rubber and other materials to reduce weight or improve durability. Steel-reinforced tracks add metal cables or bands inside the rubber for extra strength on very rough or rocky ground, though they are noisier and harder on surfaces.

The right track for a job depends on the terrain and the machine model. A contractor working in wet clay or snow would choose an aggressive tread pattern; one working on landscaping jobs would choose a shallower pattern to reduce turf damage. The machine's manual or a dealer can recommend the correct track size and type for your equipment.

Track wear, lifespan, and when to replace

Camso tracks wear out gradually as the rubber or composite material is abraded by the ground and the tread blocks flatten or tear. The lifespan depends on how hard the machine is worked, what terrain it operates on, and how well it is maintained. A track used on soft ground with light loads might last 1,500 to 2,000 operating hours; one used on rocky ground or in heavy-duty applications might last 500 to 1,000 hours.

Signs that a track needs replacement include visible tread wear (the grooves become shallow), chunks of rubber missing from the tread, cracks in the rubber, or the track slipping or spinning on the ground even when the engine is running at full power. A track that is worn thin will also allow the machine to sink deeper into soft ground, reducing productivity.

Replacing a track is not a field repair — it requires removing the track from the machine and fitting a new one, which usually takes a few hours. Most owners take their machines to a dealer or a shop that specializes in track equipment. The cost of a new track varies widely depending on the machine size and track type, but replacement is a routine maintenance expense for any contractor or farmer using track equipment regularly.

Maintenance to extend track life

Keeping a Camso track in good condition involves a few basic steps. Check the track tension regularly — a track that is too loose will slip and wear faster, and one that is too tight will strain the rollers and sprocket. Most machines have a tensioner bolt or lever that you can adjust; the manual will show you how much play the track should have (usually about half an inch).

Clean mud and debris from the track and undercarriage after each day of work, especially if you have been in very wet or muddy conditions. Dried mud can trap moisture against the rubber and accelerate rot or cracking. Rinse with water if possible, but do not use a high-pressure washer directly on the track, as the force can damage the rubber or force water into the bearing seals.

Inspect the track visually before each use. Look for tears, missing chunks, or objects lodged in the tread. Remove any rocks or sticks caught between the track and the frame. If you notice the track is slipping or the machine is pulling to one side, stop and check the tension or look for damage before continuing work.

Camso tracks versus tires: advantages and trade-offs

Tracks offer real advantages over tires in soft or uneven terrain. They reduce ground pressure, improve traction in mud and snow, and allow a machine to work in conditions where a wheeled machine would get stuck. They also provide a smoother ride on rough ground because the belt absorbs shock better than a tire does.

The trade-offs are cost, complexity, and speed. A set of Camso tracks costs more than tires for the same machine. Tracks require more maintenance — checking tension, cleaning debris, inspecting for damage — and repairs are more involved. A machine on tracks also moves more slowly than one on tires, especially on hard ground or pavement, because the track system is heavier and the engine has to work harder to move it.

Tracks are also noisier than tires, especially on pavement, and they can damage asphalt or concrete if used heavily. For this reason, contractors who work in mixed conditions — sometimes on soft ground, sometimes on job sites with paved areas — may choose to keep both a wheeled machine and a tracked machine, or to switch between tires and tracks depending on the job.

How to choose the right Camso track for your machine

Start with your machine's model number and the manufacturer's specifications. The manual or a dealer can tell you the correct track size, width, and type for your equipment. Do not assume that a track from one brand will fit another brand's machine, or that a track from a different model year will work — undercarriage geometry varies, and a mismatched track can damage the machine or fail during use.

Next, think about the terrain and work you do most often. If you work primarily in mud, snow, or soft ground, an aggressive tread pattern is worth the extra cost. If you work on landscaping or in mixed conditions, a shallower pattern reduces turf damage and noise. If you work on very rocky or abrasive ground, a steel-reinforced track will last longer, though it costs more and is noisier.

Talk to your dealer or a track specialist about your specific conditions. They can recommend a track that balances durability, cost, and performance for your situation. Buying the cheapest track available often means replacing it sooner, so the middle-range option is usually the better value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put Camso tracks on any machine?

No. Tracks are designed for specific machine models and undercarriage types. Putting the wrong track on a machine can damage the sprocket, rollers, or frame. Always check your machine's manual or contact a dealer to confirm the correct track size and type before ordering.

How much does a set of Camso tracks cost?

Cost varies widely depending on machine size and track type. A set of tracks for a small skid steer might range from $2,000 to $4,000; larger machines or heavy-duty tracks can cost significantly more. Dealer pricing also varies by region and availability. Contact a local dealer for a quote on your specific machine.

Can I repair a damaged track or do I have to replace the whole thing?

Small repairs are sometimes possible — a torn section of rubber can be patched or glued in some cases — but most damage requires full replacement. A track that is slipping, has chunks missing, or is cracked throughout is not safe to repair and should be replaced. A dealer can assess whether repair is worth attempting.

Do Camso tracks work in winter or snow?

Yes. Tracks perform very well in snow and ice because they distribute weight and provide traction. An aggressive tread pattern designed for snow will bite into the surface and pull the machine forward without slipping. Tracks are commonly used on compact equipment in northern climates for this reason.

How long does it take to install new Camso tracks?

Installation typically takes two to four hours at a dealer or shop, depending on the machine size and the technician's experience. The time includes removing the old track, inspecting the undercarriage for damage, fitting the new track, adjusting tension, and testing. Some dealers can do it faster if they have the parts in stock and the machine is straightforward.