Choosing the Right Rubber Tracks for the Takeuchi TB135

[MikePhua]

The Takeuchi TB135 and Its Legacy
The Takeuchi TB135 is a compact hydraulic excavator introduced in the early 2000s by Takeuchi Manufacturing, a Japanese company that pioneered the mini-excavator category in the 1970s. Known for its reliability, smooth hydraulics, and operator-friendly design, the TB135 quickly became a favorite among utility contractors, landscapers, and rental fleets. It features a 3.5-ton operating weight, a Yanmar 4TNV88 engine producing around 28 horsepower, and a zero-tail swing configuration ideal for confined job sites.
Takeuchi’s reputation for overbuilding its machines—thicker steel, robust undercarriage components, and precise boom geometry—helped the TB135 achieve strong global sales. By 2010, Takeuchi had sold over 100,000 compact excavators worldwide, with the TB135 contributing significantly to that milestone.
Why Rubber Tracks Fail Prematurely
Rubber tracks on compact excavators endure constant stress from uneven terrain, sharp turns, and debris. On older machines like the 2002 TB135, track failures often stem from age-related degradation, missing steel core ribs, and improper tensioning.
Common failure symptoms:

• Tracks derailing during turns or slope transitions
  
• Visible cracking or chunking of rubber surface
  
• Missing embedded steel ribs that guide sprocket engagement
  
• Excessive wear on drive lugs and guide pads
  

In one case from West Virginia, an operator noticed his TB135’s tracks popping off repeatedly. Upon inspection, several steel ribs were missing, causing misalignment with the sprockets. He was able to re-tension the tracks using the grease cylinder and idler bolt, but the problem persisted—highlighting the need for full replacement.
Understanding Track Anatomy and Sizing
Rubber tracks are more than just belts of rubber. They contain:

• Steel Core Ribs: Embedded longitudinal bars that maintain shape and guide sprocket engagement
  
• Drive Lugs: Raised sections on the inner surface that mesh with the sprocket teeth
  
• Guide Pads: Centering features that keep the track aligned on the rollers
  
• Tread Pattern: Determines traction, vibration, and wear characteristics
  

For the TB135, the standard track size is typically 320mm wide, with 52–54 pitch links depending on the manufacturer. Pitch refers to the distance between drive lugs and must match the sprocket geometry precisely.
Selecting the Right Replacement Tracks
With dozens of aftermarket brands available, choosing the right rubber track involves balancing cost, durability, and compatibility. Key considerations include:

• Core Material: Forged steel ribs last longer than cast or wire-based cores
  
• Rubber Compound: High-carbon blends resist chunking and UV degradation
  
• Warranty Terms: Reputable brands offer 12–18 month coverage against delamination and premature wear
  
• Tread Design: Zigzag or block patterns offer better traction in mud, while straight patterns reduce vibration on pavement
  

Recommended steps:

• Measure existing track width, pitch, and total link count
  
• Inspect sprockets and rollers for wear before installing new tracks
  
• Replace both tracks simultaneously to avoid uneven wear
  
• Use a torque wrench when adjusting idler tension to avoid over-compression
  

In Ohio, a rental company found that switching to a premium track brand with reinforced steel cores reduced derailments by 70% and extended lifespan from 1,200 to over 2,000 hours.
Installation Tips and Tensioning Protocols
Installing new tracks on the TB135 requires careful handling and proper tensioning. The machine uses a grease-filled tension cylinder behind the front idler. To retract the idler:

• Loosen the grease relief bolt
  
• Push the idler inward using a pry bar or hydraulic jack
  
• Mount the track over the sprocket and idler
  
• Re-tighten the grease bolt and pump grease until the track sags 1–1.5 inches at midpoint
  

Over-tensioning can cause premature wear on rollers and increase fuel consumption. Under-tensioning leads to derailments and damage to the track guides.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Operators new to compact excavators often overlook undercarriage maintenance. Key mistakes include:

• Ignoring daily track inspections for cuts or embedded debris
  
• Operating with mismatched track tension
  
• Failing to clean mud and gravel from undercarriage after use
  
• Using incompatible aftermarket tracks with incorrect pitch
  

In Georgia, a landscaping crew installed budget tracks with a 50-pitch configuration on a TB135 requiring 52. The result was constant derailments and damage to the sprockets. After switching to OEM-spec tracks, the issue was resolved.
Market Trends and Track Technology
Rubber track technology has evolved significantly. Some manufacturers now offer:

• Kevlar-reinforced sidewalls for puncture resistance
  
• Dual-compound rubber for better grip and longevity
  
• Embedded RFID chips for tracking wear and usage hours
  
• Eco-friendly rubber blends with recycled content
  

Global demand for compact excavators continues to rise, with over 300,000 units sold annually. This drives innovation in track design, especially for machines like the TB135 that remain in service decades after production.
Conclusion
Replacing rubber tracks on a Takeuchi TB135 is more than a maintenance task—it’s an opportunity to restore performance, reduce downtime, and extend machine life. Understanding track anatomy, sizing, and installation protocols ensures a smooth upgrade. With the right selection and care, new tracks can deliver thousands of productive hours, keeping this legendary compact excavator working hard in the field. Whether you're a seasoned operator or a new owner, investing in quality tracks pays dividends in reliability and safety.