So did the aftermarket tracks wear down, or just cut bad or both? Sounds like bad tracks. Might also depend on how hard the machine is used for such as digging demo etc. I mostly use CTL for moving material, very light digging, and loading. I did replace the tracks on my Toro Dingo, and decided due to the selection of aftermarket products out there, and for the fact I wanted to stick with the proven OEM tread pattern that it would be best to keep with the OEM tracks. So I replaced them with OEM Toro Dingo tracks. I'm sure Toro does not make them, but they seem to last long. They were also very expensive. For the best tread pattern and durability for the Cat 280, there may be be a minimal amount of aftermarket treads out there, so it may be best to stick with the OEM. In this case, Gene's has had his machine for ten years and doesn't use it that much. OEM tracks may not be needed or it may add no extra value to the machine if he goes to replace it.