Link-Belt 135 Spin Ace Excavator Performance and Maintenance Insights

[MikePhua]

The Link-Belt Legacy and the 135 Spin Ace Series
Link-Belt Excavators, a brand under LBX Company LLC, has roots tracing back to the late 19th century when William E. Link invented the first belt-driven crane. Over time, Link-Belt evolved into a respected name in hydraulic excavators, known for their smooth controls, durable frames, and operator-friendly design. The 135 Spin Ace, introduced in the early 2000s, was part of Link-Belt’s compact radius series, designed for urban excavation and tight job sites where swing clearance is limited.
The 2005 Link-Belt 135 Spin Ace features a reduced tail swing profile, making it ideal for roadside work, utility trenching, and residential foundation digging. With an operating weight of approximately 13,500 kg and a bucket capacity of 0.5 to 0.7 cubic meters, it balances maneuverability with lifting power. By the mid-2000s, Link-Belt had sold thousands of Spin Ace units across North America and Asia, especially in regions with strict space constraints and noise regulations.
Core Specifications and Operating Profile
Typical configuration of the 135 Spin Ace includes:

• Engine: Isuzu 4JJ1X, turbocharged diesel
  
• Power output: Approximately 98 horsepower at 2,000 rpm
  
• Hydraulic system: Closed-center with load-sensing control
  
• Swing radius: ~1.5 meters (reduced tail swing)
  
• Travel speed: Up to 5.5 km/h
  
• Fuel tank capacity: ~200 liters
  

Terminology notes:

• Reduced tail swing: A design feature that minimizes the rear overhang of the upper structure, allowing operation in confined spaces.
  
• Load-sensing hydraulics: A system that adjusts pump output based on demand, improving efficiency and control.
  
• Closed-center system: A hydraulic configuration where flow is blocked until a function is activated, reducing heat and wear.
  

In one case from a contractor in Vancouver, the 135 Spin Ace was used to excavate utility trenches between buildings with less than 2 meters of clearance. Its compact swing radius and responsive hydraulics made it the ideal choice.
Hydraulic System Maintenance and Common Issues
The 135 Spin Ace’s hydraulic system is robust but sensitive to fluid quality and filter integrity. Common issues include:

• Sluggish boom or arm movement
  
• Hydraulic drift when holding position
  
• Whining noise from the pump under load
  
• Fluid leaks near the valve block or swing motor
  

Maintenance checklist:

• Replace hydraulic filters every 500 hours
  
• Use ISO 46 hydraulic oil with anti-wear additives
  
• Inspect pilot lines quarterly for abrasion
  
• Bleed air from the system after filter changes
  
• Monitor fluid temperature during heavy use (should stay below 80°C)
  

In Texas, a fleet manager added a magnetic inline filter upstream of the valve block. This captured fine metallic debris and extended valve life by 30%.
Engine Performance and Fuel System Reliability
The Isuzu 4JJ1X engine is known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions. However, it requires clean diesel and proper airflow to perform optimally.
Recommended practices:

• Replace fuel filters every 250 hours
  
• Clean air filters weekly in dusty environments
  
• Inspect turbocharger for shaft play and oil residue
  
• Use diesel additives to prevent microbial growth in humid climates
  
• Monitor exhaust color for signs of injector wear
  

Terminology notes:

• Microbial growth: Bacteria and fungi that thrive in diesel tanks, especially in humid conditions, leading to clogged filters and injector fouling.
  
• Turbocharger shaft play: Excessive movement in the turbo shaft can indicate bearing wear and reduced boost efficiency.
  

In Chile, a contractor used a refurbished 135 Spin Ace for hillside grading. After replacing the fuel filters and cleaning the turbo, the machine operated safely for another 1,500 hours without incident.
Electrical System and Monitor Panel Diagnostics
The 135 Spin Ace features a digital monitor panel displaying engine parameters, hydraulic status, and fault codes. Common electrical issues include:

• Flickering display due to voltage fluctuations
  
• Faulty throttle actuator causing erratic RPM
  
• Corroded connectors near the cab floor
  
• Battery drain from parasitic loads
  

Solutions:

• Use dielectric grease on all connectors
  
• Replace throttle actuator every 2,000 hours
  
• Install battery isolator switch to prevent drain
  
• Upgrade to sealed AGM batteries for vibration resistance
  

In Florida, a contractor added a solar trickle charger to maintain battery health during seasonal downtime. This reduced no-start complaints by 80%.
Undercarriage and Track System Care
The undercarriage includes steel tracks, rollers, idlers, and sprockets. Neglect can lead to premature wear and reduced traction.
Best practices:

• Check track tension monthly (ideal sag: 30–40 mm)
  
• Grease rollers every 100 hours
  
• Inspect sprocket teeth for chipping or rounding
  
• Replace track pads if cracked or bent
  

In Peru, a mining crew rotated track pads every 1,000 hours to distribute wear evenly, extending pad life by 25%.
Cab Comfort and Operator Ergonomics
The cab of the 135 Spin Ace is designed for visibility and comfort. Suggested upgrades include:

• Suspension seat with lumbar support
  
• LED work lights for night operation
  
• Rear-view camera for blind spot monitoring
  
• Bluetooth radio for operator morale
  

In South Africa, a contractor added tinted safety glass and a fan to reduce glare and heat during summer grading.
Parts Availability and Sourcing Strategies
Link-Belt parts are available through:

• Authorized LBX dealers
  
• Aftermarket suppliers offering seal kits and filters
  
• Salvage yards specializing in compact excavators
  
• Regional contractor networks for surplus exchanges
  

Recommended sourcing tips:

• Use engine and pump serial numbers to match components
  
• Cross-reference hydraulic seals with NOK or Parker equivalents
  
• Seek remanufactured control valves for cost-effective repairs
  

In Alberta, a contractor rebuilt his valve bank using locally sourced O-rings and imported spool seals. The machine returned to service within a week.
Conclusion
The Link-Belt 135 Spin Ace remains a dependable compact excavator with a legacy of precision and versatility. With disciplined maintenance, targeted upgrades, and a bit of ingenuity, operators can keep these machines responsive and reliable in even the tightest job sites. Whether trenching between buildings or grading on slopes, the 135 Spin Ace continues to prove that compact doesn’t mean compromised.