TRENCHER PARTS

For step-by-step trencher chain identification, use our Trencher Chain Guide here. It starts with your trencher’s make and model, pitch size (distance from center of one pin to center of the next), number of stations, attachment spacing (2-pitch or 4-pitch), chain type and style, and cutter/tooth type. Check for stamping on your chain body; Ballantine chains feature clear identification marks. If you’re unsure about any specifications, contact us with photos of your current chain and your machine information, and we’ll help with trencher chain identification.

Your chain needs the same number of stations it was originally designed to have. Count the stations on your current chain as a starting point, but keep in mind that operators sometimes remove links as chains wear. When ordering, let us know if you’ve removed any links from your current chain. If you’re not sure, we can help verify the correct original length for your machine based on your trencher’s make and model. See our Trencher Chain Guide for more information.

Choosing the right trencher chain depends on the soil conditions where you’re digging. Cup assemblies work well for sandy or soft soil. Rocky or hard-packed soil requires carbide options like Terminator teeth (also called “shark teeth”) or Rock & Frost cutters. For mixed conditions, combination chains (Terminator/Cup or Rock & Frost/Cup) offer versatility. Our Trencher Chain Guide includes a detailed ground conditions chart that matches chain assembly types to specific soil conditions.

Yes. You achieve longer life from your chain, sprockets, and overall trencher when you replace the chain, sprocket, and roller simultaneously as a complete set. Ballantine manufactures these components to work together. Installing a new chain on worn sprockets creates “hot spots” that accelerate chain wear and reduce the life of your new chain. This complete-set approach maximizes your investment and equipment performance. 

Several signs indicate it’s time to replace your trencher chain.

• Check for worn or broken teeth, cracked links, or visible damage to the chain body.
• If your chain has excessive slack that can’t be adjusted properly (commonly called “stretching,” though this is actually wear between components creating play), it needs replacement.
• Reduced digging efficiency or your trencher working harder than usual also signals worn chain.
• Make sure to regularly inspect your chains so you can replace them before they fail and cause downtime.

If you currently have a Ballantine trencher chain and need to replace broken or worn components, individual replacement parts work seamlessly with your existing setup. However, if you have another manufacturer’s chain, we recommend purchasing a complete trencher chain assembly. Our assemblies include all components—chain, teeth, cup cutters, and adapters—designed and manufactured to work together for optimal performance. Mixing parts from different manufacturers can lead to premature wear and reduced efficiency.

Trencher chain assemblies vary based on your machine and application. Each assembly includes:  

• The chain with appropriate pitch and station count 

• Cutter/tooth type (cup cutters, Terminator carbide teeth, Rock & Frost cutters, or other configurations) 

• Attachment spacing (2-pitch or 4-pitch) 

• All necessary hardware.  

Assemblies are configured for your specific trencher model and digging conditions. Submit a request using our Trencher Chain Guide to configure the right assembly.