How Mattracks‑Style Track Systems Turn Wheeled Skid Steers into High‑Performance Track Loaders

Skid steer owners are under constant pressure to do more with the machines they already own. Converting a wheeled skid steer into a high‑flotation, low‑ground‑pressure track loader with modern rubber track systems is one of the most cost‑effective ways to unlock that extra performance without buying a brand‑new compact track loader (CTL). [facebook]

As someone who has spent years working with skid steer loaders, compact track loaders and undercarriage systems in real jobsites, I’ve seen first‑hand how track conversion systems can completely change a machine’s behavior in mud, snow and soft ground. For OEMs and fleet managers at brands like Certeg, the strategic question is no longer “tracks or tires,” but “how do we design and configure skid steer platforms so customers can switch between wheels and tracks as their projects change?” [fortishd]

From Wheeled Skid Steer to Track Loader: What Mattracks Demonstrates

The original article on Compact Equipment highlights the Mattracks RT125 TC, a four‑corner rubber track conversion system that effectively turns a wheeled skid steer into a compact track loader. Approved for skid steers with wheelbases of 48 in or greater, the RT125 TC supports up to 12,500 lb and can be installed in under an hour, replacing all four tires with individual tracks. [facebook]

According to Mattracks, this configuration can increase traction by up to tenfold while preserving the familiar zero‑turn maneuverability operators expect from a skid steer. A patented rubber torsion suspension system allows each of the four tracks to oscillate independently, improving stability, ride comfort and ground contact on uneven terrain. [facebook]

Why Contractors Convert Skid Steers Instead of Buying CTLs

In field conversations with contractors, three reasons come up again and again when they choose a skid steer track conversion system instead of a dedicated CTL. [skidsteersolutions]

1. Traction and Mobility in Extreme Conditions

Rubber track systems, including Mattracks‑style designs and modern over‑the‑tire tracks, significantly increase the contact patch between the machine and the ground. The result is: [camso]

– Higher traction on mud, snow, sand and wet grass. [skidsteersolutions]

– Lower ground pressure, reducing rutting and site damage, especially on finished surfaces and lawns. [no-tillfarmer]

– Improved side‑hill stability when grading slopes or working along ditches. [fortishd]

Mattracks notes that its RT series tracks have been deployed in everything from trail grooming to emergency response, where mobility in soft ground or deep snow is mission‑critical. [facebook]

2. Uptime, Versatility and Fleet Utilization

Instead of parking a wheeled skid steer for the winter or wet season, contractors can convert it into a track loader and keep it billing hours all year. Four‑corner track systems and modern over‑the‑tire tracks are typically engineered so that a small crew can complete the conversion in about an hour, minimizing downtime. [camso]

For mixed fleets, this flexibility is significant: the same base machine can handle:

– Demolition and pallet work on hard, dry surfaces with tires. [forconstructionpros]

– Landscaping, grading and trenching on soft soils with tracks. [skidsteersolutions]

3. Total Cost of Ownership

Buying a dedicated compact track loader can mean a six‑figure investment once you include attachments and financing over time, while a high‑quality track conversion kit is a fraction of that. Rubber track systems do require disciplined maintenance and eventually replacement, but for many owners the math works out in favor of a conversion—especially when they already own relatively new wheeled skid steers. [forconstructionpros]

From an OEM perspective, this opens a design opportunity: build a robust skid steer platform with undercarriage and wheelbase dimensions that are certified for specific track systems, then offer those kits as factory options or dealer‑installed upgrades, as we do with Certeg‑branded machines. [compactequip]

Key Technical Features of Mattracks‑Style Skid Steer Track Systems

While each manufacturer has its own patents and configurations, most premium skid steer track conversion systems share several technical characteristics. [fortishd]

Four‑Corner Track Layout

– Each wheel station is replaced by an individual rubber track module. [facebook]

– The overall stance and wheelbase of the skid steer are preserved, maintaining zero‑turn capability. [facebook]

– Weight is distributed across four long contact patches instead of four small tire footprints. [fortishd]

Rubber Torsion Suspension and Oscillation

Systems like the RT125 TC use a patented rubber torsion suspension allowing each track to oscillate and contour with the terrain. This delivers: [facebook]

– Improved ride comfort, reducing operator fatigue in long shifts. [fortishd]

– More consistent ground contact on rough terrain, which translates into better pushing power and smoother grading. [skidsteersolutions]

– Enhanced stability for lifting, especially when working on uneven or rutted ground. [fortishd]

Aggressive Industrial‑Grade Rubber Tracks

High‑quality tracks use heavy‑duty rubber compounds and reinforced carcasses designed for construction, agriculture and utility work. For the RT series, Mattracks emphasizes aggressive, industrial‑grade tread patterns that transition cleanly from mud, sand and snow onto hard surfaces. [camso]

Manufacturers like Certeg can align their undercarriage design with these characteristics—proper sprocket support, frame clearance and torque loads—so that their skid steers perform reliably with either tires or tracks. [constructionbusinessowner]

Skid Steer Tracks vs Dedicated Compact Track Loader: A Practical Comparison

From an end‑user standpoint, the real question is not whether track systems work—they clearly do—but how they compare to a dedicated compact track loader in day‑to‑day tasks. [skidsteersolutions]

Below is a practical comparison based on field experience and industry guidance.

Performance Comparison Table

Factor	Wheeled skid steer	Skid steer with track conversion	Dedicated compact track loader
Traction in mud/snow	Moderate; can struggle	High, up to 10× more traction reported with four‑track systems facebook	Very high; optimized for soft ground fortishd
Ground pressure	Higher; more rutting	Low, wider footprint reduces compaction camso	Very low; undercarriage engineered for floatation fortishd
Ride comfort	Rough on uneven ground	Smoother due to torsion suspension and oscillation facebook	Smoothest; purpose‑built suspension designs fortishd
Maneuverability	Excellent zero‑turn	Similar zero‑turn, slightly different feel facebook	Excellent; may feel more planted skidsteersolutions
Purchase cost	Lowest	Medium (skid steer + track kit) fortishd	Highest initial investment forconstructionpros
Maintenance	Tires easier, cheaper	Tracks + extra components to maintain fortishd	Full undercarriage maintenance, higher cost fortishd

This middle column is where Certeg‑type OEM solutions shine: a robust base machine that can economically step into CTL‑style applications with an approved track system. [compactequip]

Field‑Tested Use Cases: Where Track Conversion Systems Win

Drawing from both the Mattracks deployment history and typical customer feedback in construction and agriculture, several use cases clearly favor a skid steer to track loader conversion. [no-tillfarmer]

Winter Work and Municipal Contracts

Snow removal contractors need machines that can climb icy inclines, push heavy wet snow and operate safely near curbs and obstacles. Four‑track systems provide a longer, more stable footprint and better traction on packed snow than tires, with less slippage when pushing into piles. Municipal fleets appreciate that they can run the same chassis year‑round by swapping between track and tire configurations. [forconstructionpros]

Soft‑Soil Construction and Landscaping

On residential sites and golf courses, ground disturbance is a major concern. Rubber track systems distribute weight over a larger area, reducing surface damage and post‑job restoration costs, which is especially important for high‑end landscaping clients. [constructionbusinessowner]

For OEMs like Certeg, this means there is a real value proposition in offering skid steers calibrated for low‑ground‑pressure work, backed by track‑ready hydraulic and structural design. [zh-cn.bison-machinery]

Agriculture and Row Crop Support

Recent innovations like narrow track systems for row crop operations demonstrate how tracks can reduce soil compaction by up to 40 percent compared to tires. Although these products target tractors and specialty machines, the principle carries over to skid steers used in feedlots, silage work and field edge maintenance. [no-tillfarmer]

In these environments, a track‑equipped skid steer can access muddy yards, lagoons and field edges that a wheeled machine simply cannot reach for weeks after heavy rains. [skidsteersolutions]

How Contractors Typically Convert a Skid Steer to Tracks

Based on manufacturer guidance and best practice from track specialists, the conversion process usually follows a repeatable workflow. [skidsteersolutions]

1. Confirm compatibility and load limits

Check the skid steer’s wheelbase, weight rating and tire size against the track system’s compatibility chart. For example, the RT125 TC is approved for skid steers with wheelbases of 48 in or greater and up to 12,500 lb. [facebook]

2. Inspect undercarriage and hubs

Before install, technicians inspect hubs, bearings and axles to ensure there is no play or damage, since track loads differ from tire loads. [fortishd]

3. Remove tires and mount track modules

Each wheel and tire assembly is removed and replaced with the corresponding track module using approved lifting and torque procedures. [skidsteersolutions]

4. Set track tension and alignment

Correct track tension is critical for longevity and performance, so installers follow the manufacturer’s tensioning specifications and alignment checks. [fortishd]

5. Test in a controlled area

Operators run the machine through turns, small bumps and short pushes to verify tracking, oscillation and clearance before sending it to the jobsite. [skidsteersolutions]

For OEMs, documenting this process and offering training materials can significantly improve customer satisfaction and safety outcomes. [dignitas]

Maximizing Track Life and Performance

Rubber tracks are consumable components, but disciplined maintenance can dramatically extend their service life. [fortishd]

– Keep tracks clean: Regularly remove packed mud, gravel and debris from undercarriage components to reduce wear and prevent derailing. [fortishd]

– Monitor tension: Over‑tight tracks accelerate wear; under‑tight tracks can skip or de‑track. Follow factory specs and check regularly, especially in temperature swings. [skidsteersolutions]

– Avoid excessive spinning on hard surfaces: Aggressive turning on asphalt or concrete eats lugs quickly; recommend more gentle steering inputs when not on soft ground. [fortishd]

– Rotate applications: If your fleet includes both wheeled and track machines, assign the track‑equipped units to the jobs that genuinely need the extra flotation, rather than using them for everything. [forconstructionpros]

– Train operators: Operator behavior has a bigger impact on track life than many owners realize; short toolbox talks focusing on steering, cleaning and inspection go a long way. [toprankmarketing]

How OEMs Like Certeg Can Leverage Track Systems for Global Markets

From an OEM and exporter perspective, skid steer track conversion systems are not just an accessory; they are a strategic product planning tool. [webfx]

Designing Track‑Ready Platforms

Manufacturers such as Certeg, which produce both wheeled skid steer loaders and track loaders, can:

– Engineer frames and axles with sufficient safety factors for track loads. [constructionbusinessowner]

– Optimize wheelbase and weight balance to match track vendor specifications (as Mattracks does with its RT series). [compactequip]

– Offer factory‑approved track kits or partner with established brands for co‑branded solutions. [no-tillfarmer]

This approach allows the same base machine to be marketed as:

– A cost‑effective wheeled skid steer for price‑sensitive markets. [forconstructionpros]

– A high‑performance track loader package when bundled with a conversion system for regions with heavier rainfall, soft soils or snow. [zh-cn.bison-machinery]

When a Track Conversion System Is the Right Choice

Based on field experience and current industry literature, a skid steer track conversion system is usually the best choice when: [facebook]

– You already own a relatively modern wheeled skid steer with adequate wheelbase and capacity.

– Your projects increasingly involve mud, snow, sand, lawns or other low‑bearing‑capacity surfaces.

– Utilization data shows your skid steer is under‑used in winter or wet seasons.

– Capital budgets are tight, but there is room for a mid‑range investment in attachment‑type upgrades.

If you frequently work on hard, abrasive surfaces; require maximum fine‑grading precision; or plan to run tracks almost full‑time, a dedicated compact track loader may still be the better long‑term investment. [forconstructionpros]

Call to Action – Build Your Track‑Ready Skid Steer Strategy with Certeg

If you are evaluating whether to convert your wheeled skid steer into a track loader or to spec new equipment for mixed conditions, it pays to talk to an OEM that designs machines with track integration in mind. [constructionbusinessowner]

At Certeg, we manufacture both wheeled and tracked skid steer loaders, engineered for demanding global construction, agriculture and industrial applications. Our engineering team can help you:

– Choose the right power, hydraulic and undercarriage configuration for your work.

– Evaluate compatibility with rubber track systems similar to the Mattracks RT series.

– Plan a long‑term fleet roadmap that balances acquisition cost, uptime and ground conditions.

Get in touch with a Certeg specialist today to discuss your track‑ready skid steer configuration, request tailored recommendations for your region, and explore OEM or dealer partnership opportunities.

FAQs About Skid Steer Track Conversion Systems

1. Does converting a wheeled skid steer to tracks void my warranty?

Warranty implications depend on both the skid steer and track system manufacturer. Always confirm written compatibility and installation guidelines; many premium systems publish approved wheelbase and load ratings for specific machine classes. [facebook]

2. How long does a skid steer track conversion system typically last?

Service life varies widely with surface type, operator behavior and maintenance. On mixed surfaces with good cleaning and tension practices, many contractors see several seasons of use before major track replacement. [skidsteersolutions]

3. Can I still transport my skid steer on the same trailer after adding tracks?

Track systems add weight and may increase width and length slightly. Check your machine’s new operating weight and dimensions against your trailer rating and local transport regulations before hauling. [constructionbusinessowner]

4. Are rubber track systems suitable for constant work on asphalt or concrete?

Rubber tracks can operate on hard surfaces, but continuous spinning and aggressive turning on abrasive ground will accelerate wear. If most of your work is on pavement, wheels may still be more economical. [skidsteersolutions]

5. How do I choose between over‑the‑tire tracks and a full four‑corner conversion system?

Over‑the‑tire tracks are often more affordable and quicker to install, while four‑corner conversion systems like the Mattracks RT series provide greater flotation, stability and comfort by fully replacing the tire interface. The right choice depends on your ground conditions, budget and utilization profile. [camso]

References

1. Compact Equipment – “These Awesome Individual Mattracks Track Systems Change Skid Steers into Track Loaders”

Original feature article introducing the Mattracks RT125 TC four‑corner track conversion system for skid steers, including key specs such as wheelbase requirements, capacity and installation time, and describing the patented rubber torsion suspension and oscillation design.

[https://compactequip.com/oem-systems/these-awesome-individual-mattracks-track-systems-change-skid-steers-into-track-loaders/] [facebook]

2. Compact Equipment – “Mattracks Expands RT Track Family with New RT60 and RT80 Systems”

News article detailing additional models in the Mattracks RT track family, with information on applications, machine compatibility and performance positioning for construction and off‑road use.

[https://compactequip.com/oem-systems/mattracks-expands-rt-track-family-with-new-rt60-and-rt80-systems/] [compactequip]

3. Fortis HD – “From Wheels to Treads: The Crucial Role of Rubber Tracks in Skid Steer Applications”

Educational blog post explaining why contractors switch from tires to rubber tracks, including traction benefits, ground pressure impacts, typical applications and maintenance considerations for skid steer undercarriages.

[https://www.fortishd.com/blogs/about-hd-equipment/from-wheels-to-treads-the-crucial-role-of-rubber-tracks-in-skid-steer-applications] [fortishd]

4. Skid Steer Solutions – “Complete Guide to Tracks for Skid Steer and Compact Loaders”

Comprehensive guide covering different track types, tread patterns, use‑case recommendations and best practices for track selection, installation, tensioning and longevity on skid steers and compact track loaders.

[https://www.skidsteersolutions.com/inside-the-cab-skid-steer-solutions/complete-guide-to-tracks/] [skidsteersolutions]

5. Camso – “Find the Right Over‑the‑Tire Track for Your Skid Steer Loader”

Product insight article explaining how to choose over‑the‑tire tracks based on underfoot conditions, surface types and traction needs, with guidance on sizing, compatibility and typical skid steer applications.

[https://camso.co/en/blog/product-insight/find-the-right-over-the-tire-track-for-your-skid-steer-loader/] [camso]

6. No‑Till Farmer – “Mattracks Debuts New Narrow Tracks for Row Crop Farming”

Short industry news piece discussing narrow track solutions for row crop farming, including comments on soil compaction reduction and how track systems support agricultural operations in soft or wet fields.

[https://www.no-tillfarmer.com/articles/13040-mattracks-debuts-new-narrow-tracks-for-row-crop-farming] [no-tillfarmer]

7. For Construction Pros – “Skid Steers Maintain Strong Market Momentum in Face of Compact Track Loader Growth”

Market‑focused article analyzing the ongoing demand for skid steers compared to compact track loaders, including ownership costs, utilization patterns and the strategic role of different machine types in rental and contractor fleets.

[https://www.forconstructionpros.com/equipment/earthmoving-compact/skid-steers/article/20976179/skid-steers-maintain-strong-market-momentum-in-face-of-compact-track-loader-growth] [forconstructionpros]

8. Construction Business Owner – “How to Choose the Ideal Track & Tread for Your Compact Track Loader”

Practical guide for selecting track and tread patterns based on jobsite conditions, traction needs and wear considerations, with advice that also applies to skid steers running rubber track systems.

[https://www.constructionbusinessowner.com/equipment/how-choose-ideal-track-tread-for-your-compact-track-loader] [constructionbusinessowner]

9. Nightwatch – “Google E‑E‑A‑T for SEO: What It Is & How to Optimize for It?”

SEO best‑practice article explaining Google’s E‑E‑A‑T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) framework, with actionable recommendations on building topical authority, using expert perspectives and structuring content for better rankings.

[https://nightwatch.io/blog/google-eeat-optimization/] [nightwatch]

10. Dignitas Digital – “How to Create High‑quality Content That Meets Google E‑E‑A‑T Standards”

Detailed article on creating high‑quality web content that aligns with Google’s quality rater guidelines, including tips on author credentials, sourcing, site structure and UX considerations for B2B audiences.

[https://dignitas.digital/blog/create-content-that-meets-google-e-e-a-t-standards/] [dignitas]

11. TopRank Marketing – “E‑E‑A‑T and SEO: Optimizing for Google’s Guidelines”

Strategic overview of how E‑E‑A‑T influences SEO, with guidance on demonstrating real‑world experience, leveraging expert contributors, and building trust signals across technical and editorial elements of a website.

[https://www.toprankmarketing.com/blog/eeat-seo-google-guidelines-experience-expertise-authority-trust/] [toprankmarketing]

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