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+--- Thread: Project to Revive the IHI 35J Excavator: A Restoration Journey (/thread-5614.html)
Project to Revive the IHI 35J Excavator: A Restoration Journey - MikePhua - 06-27-2025
Restoring an older machine to its former glory is a challenging yet rewarding task, and a recent user shared their journey of bringing an IHI 35J excavator back to life. This particular project is a testament to the durability and repairability of construction equipment, and it showcases the effort and attention to detail needed to breathe new life into a machine that has seen better days.
Background and Initial Condition
The IHI 35J excavator was purchased as a project to restore, with the goal of revitalizing an older model that had been neglected over time. The machine had been out of service for a while and showed signs of wear and tear. The initial inspection revealed several issues, including a faulty hydraulic system, worn-out tracks, and a general lack of maintenance.
Restoration Process
The first step in the restoration process was addressing the hydraulic system. The user found that some of the hoses and seals were leaking, so they replaced the damaged components. After flushing the hydraulic system and replacing the oil, the system was re-pressurized and tested. This step took considerable time, as troubleshooting the hydraulic components required multiple checks and adjustments to ensure proper functionality.
Next, attention was given to the undercarriage. The tracks were severely worn, and the rollers had seen better days. The user replaced the damaged rollers and installed new tracks to ensure the machine would be able to move smoothly on the job site. This process required disassembling parts of the undercarriage, which was time-consuming but necessary for the long-term performance of the excavator.
Engine and Electrical System
The engine of the IHI 35J was still in decent condition, but it needed some work to get it running at peak efficiency. The user replaced the air filters, fuel filters, and spark plugs, and the engine was then serviced and tuned. The electrical system was also examined, with a few worn wires and faulty connections being replaced to ensure reliable power throughout the machine.
Final Testing and Performance
After all the necessary repairs and replacements were completed, the user took the machine out for testing. The results were promising — the excavator started up smoothly and operated without issue. The hydraulic system responded well, and the machine moved smoothly with its new tracks. The user noted that the power was consistent, and the machine was able to perform tasks as expected.
Lessons Learned and Future Plans
The user learned valuable lessons throughout the restoration process, particularly about the importance of regular maintenance and the need for careful inspections. They now plan to use the excavator for smaller projects, including landscaping and light construction, as it was designed for such tasks. Despite the age of the machine, the user is confident that with proper care, it will continue to serve for many more years.
Conclusion
Reviving the IHI 35J excavator was no small feat, but it was a rewarding experience for the user. By carefully addressing the machine's issues, they were able to restore it to working condition and extend its useful life. This project demonstrates that with the right skills, patience, and parts, even older machines can be brought back to life, offering reliable service for years to come.