Gary's Halftracks

[spec4don]

I was reading over on the G (as I'm sure some of you are) and Gary is talking retirement. If someone doesn't buy him out it could put a real dent in parts availability for half tracks in the future. Most of the armor plans are out on the web but a lot of the nickel and dime stuff will be hard to find. I hope his inventory does not go to Europe. That would really put a damper on halftrack restorations.

Don G.

[Outsider]

Problem is Don with all the Israeli tracks gone, if new tracks aren't made there probably won't be any more halftrack restorations started anyway. Without a good set of tracks what good is restoring a halftrack to sit on it's bogies?

Steve

[HenryVIII]

Has anybody thought about using tracks from skid steers or mini excavators. There are several companies that use tracks similar in length to the halftracks but the tread pattern is different. Also several ag tractors are using tracks on more of their stuff including grain carts and combines. If one could be found that is the same length and width I am sure a replacement drive sprocket could be made to match any specific track. The tread pattern might not be right but at least you could drive your track. This could be done without destroying any original parts so it could be put back to original at any time. Also in Ag magazines there are several companys advertizing they can re-tread used tracks. Also there are several companies that advertise rebuilding bogie wheels.

I was checking into this several years ago until I found some surplus tracks for my project. Then I quit looking.  I will try to get some measurements next time I am out and about

Henry 

[spec4don]

Steve, you got that right! can you say yard art  It would be a shame.

 Henery VIII check this thread over on the "G" If you have some leads contact Mike as he is leading the charge right now to find a new source of tracks. Possible China or maybe France.

http://g503.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=24&t=228085

Don G.

[FrankUSMC]

I hope some one does buy him out to save the parts. I have been collecting military vehicles since the 1970s, more than once I have seen parts and vehicles sold for scrap after the owners retired.
One of the few, Frank USMC RET.

[HenryVIII]

Hey Guys,
Check out this site. it is only one option, maybe one of these will fit, I will have to get measurements off the halftrack to see what size might work.

Henry   

http://www.prowlertracks.com

[spec4don]

The big thing to remember with these tracks they are designed for low speed operation on constuction equipment. High speed sustained operation (20mph or better) with the friction and heat could cause them to deteriorate rapidly. I had heard that is what happened when they tried to recap tracks years ago.

Don G.