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Takeuchi TB135 Overview
The Takeuchi TB135 is a compact hydraulic excavator introduced in the early 2000s, designed for utility trenching, site prep, and landscaping. With an operating weight of approximately 7,000 kg and powered by a 4-cylinder Yanmar diesel engine producing around 40 horsepower, the TB135 features a zero-tail swing design, pilot-operated controls, and a robust steel undercarriage. Takeuchi, founded in 1963 in Japan, pioneered the compact excavator market and remains a respected name in the industry. The TB135 was widely adopted across North America and Europe, with thousands of units sold into rental fleets and owner-operator hands.
Terminology Notes
The restoration project began with a 2004 TB135 that had been parked during a brush fire. The flames melted the rear wiring harness, hydraulic hoses, cooling fan, and other plastic components. Fortunately, the engine was off at the time, and the fire did not penetrate the block or fuel system. The steel frame and boom structure remained intact.
The first step was to order service manuals from the dealer and begin sourcing replacement parts. The owner planned to pull the engine for inspection, cap off all hydraulic lines and valve bodies, and pressure wash the machine before disassembly. This approach minimizes contamination and allows for clearer visual inspection of damaged components.
Electrical and Hydraulic Restoration
OEM parts can be expensive, so sourcing from salvage yards or online marketplaces is recommended. Some owners have found success by locating another TB135 and photographing its wiring and hose routing. This visual reference helps during reassembly and reduces guesswork.
In Australia, a technician rebuilt a fire-damaged TB135 using a donor machine for reference and fabricated his own loom. In the UK, a contractor restored a similar unit by replacing only the rear harness and hoses, leaving the cab wiring untouched.
Recommendations for Restoration Projects
Restoring a fire-damaged Takeuchi TB135 is a feasible project with the right strategy and patience. The machine’s mechanical simplicity and durable frame make it a strong candidate for rebuild. By capping hydraulics, referencing a donor unit, and working with skilled electricians, owners can bring these compact excavators back to life and return them to productive service.
The Takeuchi TB135 is a compact hydraulic excavator introduced in the early 2000s, designed for utility trenching, site prep, and landscaping. With an operating weight of approximately 7,000 kg and powered by a 4-cylinder Yanmar diesel engine producing around 40 horsepower, the TB135 features a zero-tail swing design, pilot-operated controls, and a robust steel undercarriage. Takeuchi, founded in 1963 in Japan, pioneered the compact excavator market and remains a respected name in the industry. The TB135 was widely adopted across North America and Europe, with thousands of units sold into rental fleets and owner-operator hands.
Terminology Notes
- Wiring Loom: A bundled set of electrical wires and connectors that distribute power and signals across the machine.
- Hydraulic Valve Body: A manifold that directs fluid flow to cylinders and motors based on operator input.
- Brush Fire Damage: External fire exposure that melts plastic components, wiring, and rubber hoses without necessarily damaging the engine block or steel frame.
- Cap-Off Procedure: Sealing hydraulic ports with threaded caps to prevent contamination during cleaning or disassembly.
The restoration project began with a 2004 TB135 that had been parked during a brush fire. The flames melted the rear wiring harness, hydraulic hoses, cooling fan, and other plastic components. Fortunately, the engine was off at the time, and the fire did not penetrate the block or fuel system. The steel frame and boom structure remained intact.
The first step was to order service manuals from the dealer and begin sourcing replacement parts. The owner planned to pull the engine for inspection, cap off all hydraulic lines and valve bodies, and pressure wash the machine before disassembly. This approach minimizes contamination and allows for clearer visual inspection of damaged components.
Electrical and Hydraulic Restoration
- Wiring Harness Replacement
The TB135’s wiring is relatively simple compared to newer CAN-bus systems. If a used loom cannot be sourced, a skilled auto electrician can fabricate a new one using the old harness as a template. Leaving the damaged loom in place during removal helps preserve routing and connector locations.
- Hydraulic Line Management
Before pressure washing, each hydraulic line should be capped using steel plugs or flare caps. This prevents water intrusion and protects valve bodies. After cleaning, inspect each hose for burn marks, brittleness, or cracking. Replace all hoses near the fire zone, even if they appear intact.
- Fan and Cooling System
The plastic fan and shroud must be replaced. Inspect the radiator and oil cooler for warping or soot buildup. Pressure test the cooling system before reinstallation.
OEM parts can be expensive, so sourcing from salvage yards or online marketplaces is recommended. Some owners have found success by locating another TB135 and photographing its wiring and hose routing. This visual reference helps during reassembly and reduces guesswork.
In Australia, a technician rebuilt a fire-damaged TB135 using a donor machine for reference and fabricated his own loom. In the UK, a contractor restored a similar unit by replacing only the rear harness and hoses, leaving the cab wiring untouched.
Recommendations for Restoration Projects
- Cap All Hydraulic Ports Before Washing: Prevents contamination and protects valve seals.
- Use a Donor Machine for Visual Reference: Photograph hose and wire routing before disassembly.
- Consult Auto Electricians for Loom Fabrication: Saves cost and ensures proper fit.
- Replace All Burned Hoses and Plastic Components: Even minor heat damage can lead to failure.
- Pressure Test Cooling and Hydraulic Systems Before Startup: Confirms integrity and avoids surprises.
Restoring a fire-damaged Takeuchi TB135 is a feasible project with the right strategy and patience. The machine’s mechanical simplicity and durable frame make it a strong candidate for rebuild. By capping hydraulics, referencing a donor unit, and working with skilled electricians, owners can bring these compact excavators back to life and return them to productive service.
