Track Roller vs Carrier Roller: Which One Does Your Excavator Need?
Track rollers and carrier rollers look similar but serve completely different functions. Ordering the wrong one wastes time and money.
Track Roller (Bottom Roller)
Track rollers sit on the underside of the track frame and carry the machine’s full weight. They guide the track chain along the bottom and distribute weight evenly. Each excavator has 5–9 per side depending on size.
Carrier Roller (Top Roller)
Carrier rollers sit on top of the track frame and support the return run of the track chain. Most excavators have 1–2 per side. They carry much less load than track rollers.
How to Tell Which One You Need
- Location: Bottom = track roller. Top = carrier roller.
- Size: Track rollers are larger and heavier.
- Part number: Always confirm with machine model and part number.
Signs of Wear
- Oil or grease leaking from the seal
- Flat spots or scoring on the tread
- Excessive play when spun by hand
- Unusual noise during travel