Cat introduces Track Clamp Master Link

The ‘Track Clamp Master Link’ assembly from Caterpillar has been designed to improve track installation efficiency in the field by eliminating the need for a portable field press. Replacing both slip-style and press-fit joints, the Track Clamp Master Link needs no hydraulic tooling and presses, allowing operators to safely remove and install tracks without any additional equipment.

“Improperly managed undercarriages cause downtime and cost money,” says Tim Nenne, senior market professional for Caterpillar. “The Track Clamp Master Link is available for any standard hydraulic excavator with a 7.5” pitch size class, making in-field track installation both simple and safe.”

Replacing slip-style and press-fit joints can be time-consuming, and after all that effort, they’re not infallible either. With this in mind, Nenne says that Caterpillar focused on durability when developing the new master link, making it a feature, alongside convenience, speed and safety. Extensive press-out testing has shown that the Track Clamp Master Link offers 25 per cent higher pin retention compared to the press-fit master and an improvement of up to 50 per cent in joint life compared to the slip-fit master.

“Tool-less solutions are often seen as a temporary quick-fix, but with the Track Clamp we’ve set a new standard: it may not require hydraulic tooling, it may be quick, but it’s certainly not temporary,” Nenne adds.

The Track Clamp Master Link is widely used across a variety of hydraulic excavators and covers all types of undercarriages, including General Duty, Heavy Duty and Heavy Duty XL. Alongside Caterpillar’s Custom Track Service, Undercarriage Assurance Programs and worldwide parts availability, it’s one of the many ways in which Caterpillar and Cat dealers help operators get the most from their Cat Undercarriage.

The Cat Track Clamp Master link was released late last year, initially for the Cat 320 excavator. It’s since been added to other models, with more applications to come in 2026.

More information can be found by contacting your Caterpillar dealer or visiting cat.com.