It could be a combination of track components that are worn pins/bushings & links,(rails)that may be causing the track to be loose. That measurement at the carrier roller for tension sounds about right,it's the same on my D7. I've ran tractors that the sprocket slipped in the chain, they were so loose, which is close to being run to destruction as is commonly referred to, some the outfits I worked for would run them that far gone until they decided to replace the undercarrriage, I think it's best to stay on top of things and measure at regular intervals and address worn parts sooner. When you measure everything and see what you have,it may be possible to identify where money is best spent to gain hours from the undercarriage, without having to replace everything at once. Check the end of the pins and see if they are worn from hitting the bottom roller flanges, a "clunky" riding machine will be a sign of this as when they really start bumping you can feel in in the seat. This is a sign that the track links/rails are worn, rollers could be fine. It's not much, like a fraction of an inch worn from new height, the spec.'s will tell you. That is strange,older machines, you would need the Operators Instructions, Serviceman's Reference Book and Parts Catalog, to have the complete information for your serial number machine, I'm not sure if that breakdown changed for a machine from the 60's, I've ran a lot of machines newer than that by 5-10 years and recall the manuals in the shop vaguely, forget how they were broken down. Caterpillar Legendary Service Literature 1-800-228-7821. Call and reference your serial number, to see what manuals they offer, they are good quality reproductions, also check e-bay ( link below ) for originals, lots of them up for auction. The track specifications/dimensions might be easily obtained by inquiring on one of the below listed websites, lot of those guys have the undercarriage books. Reference your serial number. 977 is a good machine based on the hours I've spent on them at work, but my knowlege is limited to operator experience and some undercarriage basics, keep Bob posted, he's very helpful and knows the components on so many of these Cat's, he's a real asset to the forums when someone needs help, not sure how he finds the time. Link
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