Q: What happens if a track is thrown during my rental?
A track derailment or “thrown track” can occur for two very different reasons. Responsibility depends on why the track came off the machine.
Q: When is the renter responsible for a thrown track? (Operator Error)
The renter is responsible if a track is thrown due to operating conditions or operator technique, including but not limited to:
- Aggressive turning or spinning the machine in place
- Turning sharply while traveling at speed
- Operating on steep side slopes or uneven terrain
- Traveling across curbs, stumps, rocks, concrete edges, or debris
- Striking fixed objects such as trees, walls, or foundations
- Excessive side loading from attachments or improper use
These actions can cause a track to be thrown even when the track system is properly adjusted and in good condition.
If a thrown track is determined to be caused by operator error, the renter is responsible for:
- Service calls and labor to reinstall the track
- Any damage to tracks, rollers, idlers, sprockets, or undercarriage components
- Downtime caused by the incident
Q: When is the rental company responsible? (Equipment Condition)
We take full responsibility if a track is thrown due to equipment condition, including:
- Excessively worn or stretched tracks
- Improper track tension or adjustment
- Normal wear-related component failure
- Undercarriage issues not caused by impact or misuse
If inspection confirms the thrown track was caused by normal wear, age, or improper adjustment, there is no cost to the renter.
Q: How is responsibility determined?
Our technicians evaluate:
- Track tension and wear condition
- Undercarriage components
- Jobsite conditions
- Evidence of impact, excessive side loading, or improper operation
This allows us to fairly determine whether the thrown track was caused by operator error or equipment condition.
Bottom Line:
- Operator-caused thrown track = renter responsibility
- Wear, age, or improper adjustment = our responsibility