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Rubber Track Hitachi ZX40UR. VIQAN Replacement Parts for Heavy Equipment - Rubber and Steel Tracks
Rubber Track Hitachi ZX40UR. VIQAN Replacement Parts for Heavy Equipment - Rubber and Steel Tracks

Hitachi ZX40UR-2 Getting the Right Rubber Tracks

I had an interesting call from a customer looking for rubber tracks for a Hitachi ZX40UR-2. He had originally ordered a set from another supplier, but they turned out to be the wrong size. The problem? The machine had steel tracks originally, and when converting from steel to rubber, getting the right fit can be tricky—especially with gray market excavators.

Close-up of a Hitachi ZX40UR mini excavator in orange and black with rubber tracks parked on gravel, framed by a building and trees in the background. | VIQAN Replacement Parts for Heavy Equipment - Rubber and Steel Tracks
Hitachi ZX40UR mini excavator | VIQAN Replacement Parts for Heavy Equipment – Rubber and Steel Tracks

The Challenge: Gray Market Excavators and Undercarriage Differences

For those unfamiliar, gray market excavators are used machines imported from Japan and other markets that may have undercarriages different from their domestic U.S. counterparts. This means the standard track sizes listed for a model may not always fit. In this case, the customer’s Hitachi ZX 40UR-2 had 44 steel shoes at 12 inches wide, but the previous supplier mistakenly sent tracks based on 42 steel shoes instead.

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When switching from steel to rubber (or even vice versa), measuring the total undercarriage is crucial to ensure the tracks will fit properly. A miscalculation in shoe count and chain dimensions can lead to tracks that are too loose or too tight—or don’t fit at all!

A Hitachi ZX40UR excavator missing its tracks stands in a construction yard, with the detached rubber tracks nearby. Various other construction equipment and vehicles are visible in the background. | VIQAN Replacement Parts for Heavy Equipment - Rubber and Steel Tracks
Hitachi ZX40UR | VIQAN Replacement Parts for Heavy Equipment – Rubber and Steel Tracks

The Solution: Precision in Track Sizing

We worked closely with the customer to determine the exact total length of the existing steel tracks and chain link dimensions. After verifying the measurements, we supplied him with a set of 300 x 52.5 x 86 rubber tracks—which aligns with the John Deere 35G rubber track undercarriage. This fit ensured proper tension and performance, preventing premature wear and avoiding unnecessary downtime.

Close-up of a muddy Hitachi ZX40UR bulldozer wheel and tracks showing wear from site use. The metal surface is caked in dirt, with visible bolts and a rugged texture. | VIQAN Replacement Parts for Heavy Equipment - Rubber and Steel Tracks
Hitachi ZX40UR | VIQAN Replacement Parts for Heavy Equipment – Rubber and Steel Tracks

Takeaway: Be Careful When Converting Tracks

This experience reinforced an important lesson: when replacing tracks on gray market mini excavators, always double-check the shoe count and undercarriage specs. Relying solely on a model number can lead to costly mistakes.

If you’re ever unsure about your excavator’s track size—whether switching from steel to rubber or vice versa—feel free to reach out. We’re happy to help you get the right fit the first time.

📧 Email: sales@steeltracks.com or sales@viqan.com
📞 Call: 360-906-0109