Boost Productivity with Mitchell’s Track Excavator Hi-Rail System

Discover how Mitchell Railgear’s Track Excavator Hi-Rail system transforms your standard excavator into a high-performance rail-ready machine.

When it comes to demanding rail maintenance and construction jobs, versatility is everything. That’s why Mitchell Railgear offers a powerful solution: the Track Excavator Hi-Rail system—a fully integrated setup that allows your excavator to operate both on and off the tracks.

What Is a Track Excavator Hi-Rail System?

A Track Excavator Hi-Rail system equips a crawler excavator with specialized rail gear, enabling it to safely travel on railway tracks. The rail gear, typically mounted at the front and rear of the machine, lifts and guides the excavator’s tracks onto standard gauge rails, allowing precise movement along the rail line.

Key Features of Mitchell’s Hi-Rail System

Our Hi-Rail conversions for track excavators are engineered for durability, performance, and operator ease:

• Heavy-Duty Rail Wheels for smooth rail travel

• Hydraulic Lift Systems to engage/disengage rail gear

• Custom Fit for Multiple Brands and Models

• DOT and AREMA Compliance

• Proven Stability on Uneven Rail Terrain

Mitchell’s systems are compatible with popular excavator brands like CAT, John Deere, Hitachi, Komatsu, and more.

Advantages for Rail Contractors and Maintenance Crews

• Multi-Functional: Perform digging, lifting, tamping, and clearing without needing a separate rail-bound machine.

• Cost-Efficient: Eliminate the need for expensive track-only equipment.

• Mobility: Drive the excavator to the job site by road, then switch to rail mode.

• Increased Productivity: Get more done in less time, especially on tight project schedules.

Applications for Hi-Rail Excavators

Our Hi-Rail excavators are ideal for:

• Tie replacement and ballast work

• Ditch cleaning and slope trimming

• Trackbed prep and grading

• Brush cutting and vegetation control

• Emergency response on active lines

Trust the Experts at Mitchell Railgear

With decades of experience in railgear engineering, Mitchell Railgear is the go-to source for reliable, American-made Hi-Rail systems. Our Track Excavator Hi-Rail solutions are rigorously tested and built to last, no matter the terrain or conditions.

From design to installation and ongoing service, we support rail professionals across North America with dependable, safety-focused products.

Ready to Equip Your Excavator for Rail Work?
Contact Mitchell Railgear today for expert advice, a free quote, or to schedule a custom Hi-Rail installation.

📞 Call us Toll Free: 1-888-553-5047, Telephone: 734-529-3400 or 📧 email us Lovitt@Mitchell-Railgear.com to get started.

What Is Hi-Rail Equipment and Why It’s Essential for Rail Work?

Learn what Hi-Rail equipment is, how it works, and why Mitchell Railgear is your trusted partner for reliable Hi-Rail solutions across North America.

When road meets rail, Hi-Rail equipment takes centre stage. At Mitchell Railgear, we specialise in manufacturing and customizing premium Hi-Rail systems that transform standard vehicles into safe, efficient rail-ready machines. Whether for inspection, maintenance, or construction, Hi-Rail vehicles are essential tools in the railway industry.

What Is Hi-Rail?

Hi-Rail (also known as Hi-Rail or Highway-Rail) refers to specially equipped vehicles that can operate both on roads and rail tracks. These vehicles are fitted with retractable steel rail wheels—called Hi-Rail gear—which allow them to travel on train tracks without removing the vehicle’s standard rubber tires.

Common Hi-Rail Vehicle Types

• Hi-Rail Trucks: Utility trucks outfitted with rail gear for transporting materials and crews.

• Hi-Rail Excavators: Heavy-duty machines adapted to perform trackside excavation and maintenance.

• Hi-Rail Track Inspectors: Light vehicles equipped for quick inspections and rail patrols.

• Hi-Rail Cranes & Loaders: Used in rail construction zones for lifting and placement tasks.

Why Hi-Rail Matters

Hi-Rail equipment provides unmatched mobility, versatility, and efficiency on rail infrastructure projects. Benefits include:

• Easy access to rail corridors without the need for full-size trains

• Reduced downtime and faster job completion

• Improved worker safety on and near the tracks

• Cost-effective transport of tools, materials, and crews

Mitchell Railgear: Leaders in Hi-Rail Solutions

At Mitchell Railgear, we engineer Hi-Rail systems for everything from pickup trucks to full-scale construction equipment. All our Hi-Rail gear is built to meet or exceed AREMA and AAR standards, ensuring performance and compliance.

Our product range includes:

• Front & Rear Railgear Systems

• Hydraulic & Mechanical Drive Options

• Custom Hi-Rail Conversions

• Rail Guidance for Excavators, Cranes, and More

Plus, we offer installation support, maintenance services, and technical guidance to keep your rail vehicles operating safely and efficiently.

Get On Track with Mitchell Railgear

From routine inspection to heavy-duty rail construction, Mitchell Railgear delivers the Hi-Rail systems you can depend on. Contact us today to learn more or request a custom quote for your next project.

📞 Call us Toll Free: 1-888-553-5047, Telephone: 734-529-3400 or 📧 email us Lovitt@Mitchell-Railgear.com to get started.