Goodyear Introduces Rubber Tracks

Goodyear introduces rubber tracks TIRES/WHEELS Miscellaneous 16-6-3 Caterpillar is no longer the only major U.S. manufacturer to make rubber tracks to re-place conventional wheels on farm equipment. Goodyear introduced its own version of rubber tracks at this year's Farm Progress Show. Called "Trackman", the first Goodyear tracks to hit the market wrap around wheels on skid steer loaders. To install, you simply deflate the existing rubber tires, slip the track in place, and reinflate the tires. The track is available for Melroe Bobcats, Case skid steers and many other models. Also on exhibit at the Farm Progress Show were prototypes of tracks for virtually every type of farm tractor, combine and other implements, including grain wagons, manure spreaders, etc. Goodyear plans to offer retrofit Trackman track kits for all types of wheeled equipment through its 1,400 "Pit Stop" servicing dealers around the country. In addition, Case-IH has unveiled a 4-WD tractor fitted with Goodyear tracks (see story elsewhere in this issue). Ned Kendall, vice president of engineering at Goodyear, says the company decided to make skid steers the first application for the new rubber track because they're so widely used in farming, construction, and business. "They make skid steers even more maneuverable and easy to handle and let you work in areas a wheeled skid steer couldn't go. They also do less damage to turf and have better traction in muddy or loosely packed terrain," he says. For more information, contact FARM SHOW Followup, Goodyear, Corporate Headquarters, Akron, Ohio 44316 (ph 216 796-5896).

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