Machine Questions and Resources
We sometimes get questions on maintenance of our track conditioners. Here are some good tips to make sure you get many years of use from your track conditioner. We have also included conditioner setup manuals for you to download.
How do I avoid getting excessive material build up on the back bar of the rectangular harrow?
- Make sure the machine is level front to back using the turnbuckle
- You can add spacers in between the drawbar and tongue to help level
What can I do to eliminate the ‘slop’ or gaps between the tires on the roller?
Replacing the Brush on a Track Conditioner
- Only use #5 grade bolts, recommended size is 1/4” x 1 1/2”
- Tighten them down until they crimp against the steel frame
- Make sure that broom assembly and brace are adjusted properly to avoid excessive brush wear and vibration
When should I order new teeth?
How deep should the teeth cut into the race track surface?
- Standardbred: approximately 3/8” to 1/2”
- Thoroughbred: approximately 3 to 4 inches
How far below the gussets should the teeth be set?
- For both Standardbred and Thoroughbred machines the teeth should be set approximately 1/4” below the gussets.
- For the 8” Square Harrow machine the teeth should be set approximately 2” below the gussets.
How often should we grease the bearings?
How do I avoid breaking holders off when I replace teeth?
The best way to avoid breaking teeth holders is to clean off the conditioner and then spray each nut with a penetrating oil
such as P-Blasting and let sit for a few minutes before removing.
What kind of maintenance does the track conditioner require?
The answer depends quite a bit on weather conditions, amount of usage and type of track material. Larcom & Mitchell track conditioners are made from the highest quality steel and parts available. Our heavy duty specs mean our machines are built to last for many years of constant use. However, we recommend you periodically check and tighten any loose nuts, check the teeth for excessive wear, confirm all teeth are set at the proper depth, make sure all Whoa Stops are set correctly, and inspect the hydraulic lines for leakage. Also, it is imperative that you grease the wheel bearings (1 point) and bearing plates (3 points) about every 8-10 hours of use. We sell all the replacement parts and supplies you will ever need.
How do I adjust the level bar?
Generally speaking the level bar can be set as follows:
- wet conditions set it higher
- dry conditions set it lower
Reasons to consider adding the optional level bar to a conditioner.
Selecting the right size Race Track Conditioner
Track Size: The location of the crown, overall width of the track and number of passes necessary to maintain the entire surface may be considerations for the right size of track conditioner for your needs. One last thing to think about is width of barn doors and gates into and out of the track.
Weather/Climate: The primary consideration for weather is the size of the roller. The larger diameter rollers tend work better than smaller ones in colder climates. For example most of the Standardbred machines sold into Canada are made with the optional 18” roller.
Budget: Generally speaking the larger machines are more efficient in terms of labor hours and fuel. Our recommendation is to purchase the largest machine you can afford.