Getting the Right Final Drive for Your Machine
Ordering the correct final drive for your heavy equipment is critical to ensuring your machine operates properly. Following the right steps and gathering the necessary information will help you avoid costly mistakes and delays.
Step 1: Gather Your Machine Information
The most important piece of information you'll need is your machine serial number. This should be your starting point before contacting any supplier. Additionally, knowing your machine's make and model will help ensure accuracy.
Step 2: Locate the Final Drive Tag Information
If you don't have access to the machine serial number, or to ensure maximum accuracy, you'll need to get the information directly from your existing final drive. This is the most reliable way to match a replacement drive to your machine.
How to Find the Tag:
- The final drive tag is typically located on the motor under a cover plate on the backside of the drive
- You'll need a socket wrench and a rag to access it
- You may need to get under the machine—never do this while the machine is running
- Take a clear photo of the tag with your cell phone for reference
What Information to Record:
- MAG number (one of the most important identifiers)
- Part number
- Serial number of the drive
- Speed ratios
Step 3: Count Ports and Hydraulic Lines
Additional physical characteristics of your final drive will help ensure you receive the correct replacement:
For Skid-Steers, Compact Track Loaders, and Multi-Terrain Loaders:
- 4 hydraulic lines = single speed motor
- 5 hydraulic lines = two speed motor
Also count the number of ports on your drive and the number of mounting bolts required for installation.
Why This Information Matters
Many machine owners assume they have an OEM drive when, in fact, an aftermarket drive may have been installed during the machine's lifetime. When this happens, the machine serial number alone may not be sufficient to order the correct replacement.
Aftermarket drives can have different specifications, including hub sizes that require different diameter sprockets. Getting the tag information ensures you receive a drive that will fit properly with your existing sprocket and mounting configuration.
What to Provide Your Supplier
When you're ready to order, provide as much of the following information as possible:
- Machine serial number
- Machine make and model
- Final drive tag information (MAG number, part number, serial number, speed ratios)
- Number of hydraulic lines
- Number of ports
- Number of mounting bolts
- Photos of the final drive tag
Ready to Order?
The more information you can provide, the better we can ensure you receive the right final drive for your machine. Taking a few extra minutes to gather accurate information will save you time, money, and frustration down the road.
Contact us with your final drive requirements, and our technical team will help you find the perfect match for your heavy equipment.