How to Identify and Find Track Loader Parts

Understanding what parts your track loader needs

Track loader parts fall into a few clear categories: undercarriage parts (tracks, rollers, sprockets), engine and hydraulic components, and wear items you replace regularly. Knowing which category your part belongs to helps you find it faster and understand whether you need an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) part, an aftermarket equivalent, or a used part from salvage.

The fastest way to identify a part is to have your loader's serial number and model number on hand. These are usually stamped on the frame or listed in your operator manual. With this information, a parts supplier can tell you exactly what fits your machine and what it costs, rather than you guessing from a photo or description.

Key Takeaways

• Track loader parts break into undercarriage (tracks and rollers), engine and hydraulic systems, and wear items, and each category has different suppliers and price ranges.
• Your loader's serial number and model number are the fastest way to get an exact match, and most suppliers can look these up in seconds.
• OEM parts cost more but carry a warranty and fit without modification; aftermarket parts are cheaper but quality varies by brand.
• Used parts from salvage yards or rental companies cost less but come with no warranty and require inspection before installation.
• Undercarriage parts wear fastest and are the most expensive to replace, so tracking their condition prevents unexpected downtime.

Where to source OEM parts

OEM parts come directly from the loader manufacturer or through authorized dealers. Caterpillar, Bobcat, John Deere, and ASV are the most common track loader brands, and each has a dealer network. You can find your local dealer by entering your zip code on the manufacturer's website, or call the dealer's parts department with your serial number and they will quote you on the spot.

OEM parts carry a warranty (usually 12 months or the manufacturer's standard) and are may provide to fit without modification. They cost more than aftermarket equivalents — sometimes 30 to 50 percent more — but you avoid the risk of ordering something that does not fit or fails early. Delivery typically takes three to seven business days unless the part is in stock locally.

If you need the part urgently, ask the dealer whether they stock it or can overnight it. Some dealers maintain a larger inventory of common wear items like tracks, idlers, and seals. Smaller dealers may need to order from the regional distribution center.

Aftermarket and compatible parts

Aftermarket parts are made by third-party manufacturers and are designed to fit specific loader models. They cost less than OEM parts but quality and fit vary by brand. Reputable aftermarket suppliers like Titan, Prowler, and Komatsu-compatible makers publish compatibility charts showing which loaders their parts fit.

Before ordering an aftermarket part, confirm the compatibility chart lists your exact model and year. Some aftermarket tracks and undercarriage components require minor adjustment during installation, so factor in labor time. Read reviews from other operators if you can find them — some aftermarket brands have a strong reputation for durability, while others fail prematurely.

Aftermarket parts usually come with a shorter warranty than OEM (often 30 to 90 days) and some come with no warranty at all. Ask the supplier what their return policy is before you order, especially for large items like tracks or hydraulic cylinders.

Used and salvage parts

Used parts from salvage yards, rental companies, or equipment auctions cost significantly less than new parts — sometimes 50 to 70 percent less. This route makes sense for expensive items like engines, transmissions, or complete undercarriage assemblies, where the savings justify the risk.

The downside is that used parts come with no warranty and you cannot return them if they fail after installation. Before buying, ask the seller how many hours the part has run, whether it was maintained regularly, and whether they will let you inspect it in person or on video call. For hydraulic cylinders, tracks, and seals, ask specifically whether they have been repaired or rebuilt — a rebuilt part is not the same as a used original.

Rental companies often sell used parts from machines coming off lease, and these tend to be better maintained than salvage-yard parts because rental equipment is serviced regularly. Call local rental yards and ask whether they have a parts department or can connect you with one.

Undercarriage parts and track replacement

Tracks, rollers, idlers, and sprockets make up the undercarriage and wear faster than any other system on a track loader. A set of tracks typically lasts 1,500 to 3,000 hours depending on terrain and operating conditions — rocky or abrasive ground wears them much faster than soft soil.

When ordering replacement tracks, you need the loader model, year, and track width. Tracks are measured in inches (40 inches, 45 inches, 50 inches are common widths) and this must match exactly. Rollers and idlers are specific to each track type, so order them as a set with the tracks if you are replacing the whole undercarriage.

Undercarriage replacement is labor-intensive and usually costs more in labor than in parts. Budget for a full day of work if you are doing it yourself, or call a dealer for a labor quote. Some operators replace tracks in stages — replacing one side at a time to keep the machine in service — but this is not recommended because uneven wear accelerates damage to the remaining side.

Engine, hydraulic, and seal components

Engine parts include filters, belts, hoses, and gaskets. Hydraulic parts include cylinders, pumps, valves, and hoses. Both systems are critical to loader operation and parts should be replaced on a maintenance schedule, not when they fail.

Your operator manual lists the maintenance schedule and the exact part numbers for filters and fluids. Sticking to this schedule prevents catastrophic failures — a failed hydraulic pump can cost thousands to replace, while a filter change costs tens of dollars. Most dealers stock common filters and seals in inventory.

Seals and gaskets are inexpensive but straightforward to overlook. If you see hydraulic fluid leaking from a cylinder or hose connection, the seal has failed and the part needs replacement. Continuing to operate with a leak will damage the cylinder or pump, so address leaks promptly.

How to order parts online or by phone

To order by phone, call a dealer or parts supplier with your loader's serial number, model number, and year. Tell them which part you need — either by name or by describing what it does. They will look up the part number in their system and quote you on price and delivery time.

To order online, use the manufacturer's parts catalog (most have searchable websites) or a third-party parts retailer. Enter your model number and the system will show you compatible parts with diagrams. Add the part to your cart, enter your shipping address, and check the estimated delivery date before you pay.

Before you order, confirm the part number matches what the dealer quoted you. Part numbers are specific — a one-digit difference means a different part. If you are unsure, take a photo of the old part and send it to the supplier; they can often identify it from the photo.

Shipping costs vary by part size and weight. Tracks and large hydraulic components can cost $50 to $200 to ship, so factor this into your total cost when comparing OEM versus aftermarket.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my track loader's serial number?

The serial number is stamped on the frame, usually on the left side near the engine or on the undercarriage. Check your operator manual for the exact location for your model. Take a photo of it or write it down — you will need it every time you order parts.

Can I use parts from a different brand of track loader on mine?

No, parts are model-specific and will not fit loaders from other manufacturers. Some aftermarket suppliers make parts that fit multiple brands, but you must confirm the compatibility chart lists your exact model before ordering.

What is the difference between a rebuilt part and a used part?

A rebuilt part has been disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and reassembled to like-new condition, and usually comes with a warranty. A used part is removed from another machine and sold as-is with no warranty. Rebuilt parts cost more but are more reliable.

How long does it take to get parts delivered?

OEM parts from a dealer typically take three to seven business days if not in stock locally. Aftermarket parts from online retailers take five to ten business days. Used parts from salvage yards are usually available for pickup within a few days.

Should I replace parts one at a time or all together?

For undercarriage parts like tracks and rollers, replace the full set at once to avoid uneven wear. For engine and hydraulic components, follow the maintenance schedule in your operator manual — replacing filters and seals on time prevents the need to replace expensive components later.