Cat Launches Track Clamp Master Link for Faster Track Installation

A tool-less, safer master link design that simplifies excavator track service and reduces downtime. www.caterpillar.com A New Approach to Undercarriage Maintenance in the Field Caterpillar has introduced the Cat Track Clamp Master Link, a redesigned master link engineered to make excavator track installation safer, quicker and more efficient. By eliminating the need for a portable hydraulic field press, the new assembly enables operators and technicians to remove and reinstall tracks without specialized equipment, reducing both time and operational risk during on-site maintenance. Targeted at any standard hydraulic excavator using a 7.5-inch pitch track class, the design responds to one of the most common sources of machine downtime: undercarriage mismanagement and labor-intensive service procedures. Replacing Slip-Style and Press-Fit Joints with a Tool-Less Solution Traditional slip-style and press-fit joints require significant effort, precise tooling and multiple steps during replacement. The Track Clamp Master Link replaces both systems with a single, easy-to-use assembly that locks securely without hydraulic force. This approach allows crews to complete field installations and repairs more quickly, enabling excavators to return to operation with minimal disruption. The new link is already proving useful for operators managing large fleets or working in remote locations where moving heavy press equipment is impractical. Durability Engineered Into a Simple Installation Method Although tool-less systems are often perceived as temporary solutions, Caterpillar designed the Track Clamp Master Link to exceed the durability of the components it replaces. Extensive testing shows the new link provides higher pin retention than press-fit masters and significantly longer joint life compared with slip-fit designs. By integrating durability with ease of use, the component supports long-term undercarriage performance even under demanding operating conditions. Broad Compatibility Across Excavator Undercarriages The Track Clamp Master Link fits a wide range of hydraulic excavators and is compatible with General Duty, Heavy Duty and Heavy Duty XL undercarriages. When paired with Caterpillar’s Custom Track Service, Undercarriage Assurance Programs and global parts network, it supports a more streamlined approach to maintaining machine uptime across diverse working environments. The component is available now on the Cat 320 Excavator, with expanded model compatibility planned for 2026. www.cat.com Powered by Induportals Media Publishing

machineryasia

Dec 8, 2025 - 03:00

Cat Launches Track Clamp Master Link for Faster Track Installation

A tool-less, safer master link design that simplifies excavator track service and reduces downtime.

www.caterpillar.com

A New Approach to Undercarriage Maintenance in the Field

Caterpillar has introduced the Cat Track Clamp Master Link, a redesigned master link engineered to make excavator track installation safer, quicker and more efficient. By eliminating the need for a portable hydraulic field press, the new assembly enables operators and technicians to remove and reinstall tracks without specialized equipment, reducing both time and operational risk during on-site maintenance.

Targeted at any standard hydraulic excavator using a 7.5-inch pitch track class, the design responds to one of the most common sources of machine downtime: undercarriage mismanagement and labor-intensive service procedures.

Replacing Slip-Style and Press-Fit Joints with a Tool-Less Solution
Traditional slip-style and press-fit joints require significant effort, precise tooling and multiple steps during replacement. The Track Clamp Master Link replaces both systems with a single, easy-to-use assembly that locks securely without hydraulic force. This approach allows crews to complete field installations and repairs more quickly, enabling excavators to return to operation with minimal disruption.

The new link is already proving useful for operators managing large fleets or working in remote locations where moving heavy press equipment is impractical.

Durability Engineered Into a Simple Installation Method
Although tool-less systems are often perceived as temporary solutions, Caterpillar designed the Track Clamp Master Link to exceed the durability of the components it replaces. Extensive testing shows the new link provides higher pin retention than press-fit masters and significantly longer joint life compared with slip-fit designs. By integrating durability with ease of use, the component supports long-term undercarriage performance even under demanding operating conditions.

Broad Compatibility Across Excavator Undercarriages
The Track Clamp Master Link fits a wide range of hydraulic excavators and is compatible with General Duty, Heavy Duty and Heavy Duty XL undercarriages. When paired with Caterpillar’s Custom Track Service, Undercarriage Assurance Programs and global parts network, it supports a more streamlined approach to maintaining machine uptime across diverse working environments.

The component is available now on the Cat 320 Excavator, with expanded model compatibility planned for 2026.

www.cat.com