What track tractors are and why John Deere makes them
A track tractor is a tractor with continuous rubber or steel tracks instead of wheels. John Deere manufactures track models across several product lines — the CT series for compact work, the 9RT series for large-scale farming, and specialty models for forestry and construction. The tracks spread the tractor's weight over a larger area than wheels do, which means less ground pressure and less soil compaction.
Track tractors cost more than wheeled versions of the same horsepower, but they move through wet fields, soft ground, and slopes without sinking or slipping the way a wheeled tractor might. A farmer working in clay or peat soil, or one who needs to operate year-round in wet conditions, often finds the track model worth the premium. Construction and forestry operations use them for the same reason — they can work on terrain where wheels would fail.
Key Takeaways
- John Deere track tractors use continuous rubber or steel tracks that reduce ground pressure and prevent soil compaction better than wheels.
- The CT series handles compact jobs on small acreage; the 9RT series handles large-scale row-crop and hay operations.
- Track models cost 15 to 25 percent more than comparable wheeled tractors but perform better in wet, soft, or sloped terrain.
- Tracks require different maintenance than wheels — regular tension checks, cleaning, and eventual replacement at higher cost.
- Resale value for track tractors is typically lower than wheeled models, though demand varies by region and soil type.
John Deere's track tractor product lines
The CT series runs from the CT25 (25 horsepower) to the CT575 (75 horsepower). These are compact machines designed for landscaping, small-acreage farming, and light construction work. They fit through gates and narrow spaces that larger tractors cannot, and their low ground pressure makes them useful for work on lawns and soft ground where a full-size tractor would leave ruts.
The 9RT series includes models from the 9RT to the 9RX, with horsepower ranging from 230 to 620. These are full-size row-crop and forage tractors built for large farming operations. The 9RT is the standard track version; the 9RX is a heavier-duty variant for extreme conditions. Both are designed to work all day in fields, pulling large implements and handling the power demands of modern agriculture.
John Deere also offers track versions of specialty lines for forestry and construction, though these are less common in general farming. Your local John Deere dealer can tell you which models are available in your region and what they cost.
How tracks reduce ground pressure and soil damage
A wheel concentrates the tractor's weight on a small contact patch — the footprint where the tire touches the ground. A track spreads that same weight across a much longer surface. If a 9RT weighs 20,000 pounds, a wheel might concentrate that into 100 square inches of contact; the track spreads it across 800 square inches or more. Lower pressure per square inch means the soil underneath compacts less.
This matters because compacted soil resists root growth, holds water poorly, and takes years to recover. A farmer who runs wheeled tractors on the same field year after year can end up with a hardpan layer that reduces yield. Track tractors do not eliminate compaction — nothing does — but they reduce it enough that many farmers see better long-term soil health and crop performance.
The trade-off is that tracks are slower on hard ground and roads. A track tractor's top speed is usually 5 to 10 miles per hour lower than a comparable wheeled model, which matters if you are moving between fields frequently or traveling on public roads.
Track maintenance and repair costs
Tracks require more hands-on maintenance than wheels. You need to check track tension regularly — usually every 50 to 100 hours of operation, depending on the model and the terrain. Loose tracks slip and wear faster; over-tight tracks put strain on the drive sprockets and idler wheels. John Deere provides tension-checking procedures in the operator manual, and most dealers offer this service if you do not want to do it yourself.
Tracks also need cleaning after muddy or sandy work. Packed dirt and debris can cause the track to slip or can damage the rollers and sprockets underneath. A pressure washer works, but avoid spraying directly at the seals where the track connects to the frame.
When a track wears out, replacement is expensive — typically $3,000 to $8,000 per track depending on the model and whether you use OEM (original John Deere) or aftermarket parts. A wheeled tractor's tire replacement is usually less. Track life varies widely based on terrain and use, but expect to replace tracks somewhere between 2,000 and 5,000 hours of operation. Soft, wet ground is gentler on tracks than rocky or abrasive terrain.
Comparing track and wheeled tractors side by side
| Factor | Track Tractor | Wheeled Tractor |
|---|---|---|
| Ground pressure | Lower; less soil compaction | Higher; more compaction risk |
| Wet/soft ground performance | Excellent; tracks do not sink | Poor; wheels can bog down |
| Road speed | Slower; typically 5–10 mph less | Faster; better for road travel |
| Initial cost | 15–25% higher than wheeled | Lower baseline cost |
| Maintenance complexity | Higher; tension checks, cleaning | Lower; standard tire maintenance |
| Replacement cost (tires/tracks) | $3,000–$8,000 per track | $800–$2,000 per tire |
| Resale value | Lower in most markets | Higher; easier to sell |
When to choose a track tractor over wheels
Track tractors make the most sense if you farm clay, peat, or other soft soils where wheeled tractors sink or compact the ground heavily. They are also the right choice if you operate year-round in wet conditions — spring planting, fall harvest, and winter work in regions with poor drainage. If your field has slopes steeper than 20 degrees, tracks provide better traction and stability than wheels.
Construction and forestry operations often prefer tracks because the work happens on uneven, unstable, or temporary surfaces where wheels would fail. Landscapers use compact track models for the same reason — they can work on customer property without leaving ruts or damaging turf.
If you farm well-drained soil, work mostly on roads and hard ground, or need to move between fields quickly, a wheeled tractor will likely serve you better and cost less over time. The decision depends on your specific soil, climate, and work pattern — not on the tractor's brand or size alone.
Resale and long-term ownership considerations
Track tractors hold resale value less well than wheeled models in most markets. This is partly because fewer buyers want them — the market for used track tractors is smaller — and partly because track replacement cost is a known future expense that reduces what a buyer will pay. A five-year-old 9RT with 2,000 hours might sell for 10 to 20 percent less than a comparable wheeled 9R, even if both are in good condition.
That said, resale value varies by region. In areas with heavy clay soil or wet climates, track tractors hold value better because local buyers understand their value. In dry regions or on well-drained farms, wheeled tractors are more desirable and hold value better.
If you plan to keep the tractor for 10 years or more and use it on terrain where it performs better than wheels, the lower resale value may not matter — you will get your money's worth in performance and soil health. If you trade tractors every five years, the resale hit is more significant and worth factoring into your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch between tracks and wheels on the same tractor?
No. A track tractor frame and drivetrain are built specifically for tracks. You cannot bolt wheels onto a track tractor or tracks onto a wheeled tractor. Some manufacturers offer both versions of the same model, but they are separate machines.
Do track tractors work on paved roads?
Yes, but they are harder on the road surface and the tracks themselves. Rubber tracks wear faster on asphalt than on soil. Most farmers and contractors minimize road travel with track machines and use them mainly in the field or on job sites.
How often do I need to replace John Deere tracks?
Track life depends on terrain and use. Soft, wet ground is gentler than rocky or sandy soil. Most tracks last between 2,000 and 5,000 hours. Your dealer can inspect tracks and tell you when replacement is near.
Are aftermarket tracks cheaper than John Deere originals?
Yes, aftermarket tracks typically cost 20 to 40 percent less than OEM tracks. Quality varies, so ask your dealer about warranty and durability before choosing. Some farmers use aftermarket tracks for less demanding work and save OEM tracks for heavy use.
What is the difference between rubber and steel tracks?
Most modern John Deere track tractors use rubber tracks because they are quieter, easier on the ground, and work on roads better than steel. Steel tracks are heavier, louder, and more durable in extreme conditions, but John Deere does not offer them on current models for most applications.