Replacing the Hydraulic Suction Strainer in a Takeuchi TL130

[MikePhua]

Overview of the TL130 Hydraulic System
The Takeuchi TL130 is a compact track loader with a 10.6-gallon hydraulic reservoir.  Its hydraulic circuit draws fluid through a suction strainer (also called a pick-up screen) inside the tank, which prevents large contaminants from being drawn into the system. Over time, this strainer may need replacement due to clogging or damage, especially when servicing or replacing hydraulic filters. According to user reports, a TL130’s tank holds around 10 gallons of fluid.

Why Replace the Suction Strainer

• Contaminant buildup: Over many hours of operation, the strainer catches dirt or metal particles.
  
• Risk of collapse or deformation: If flow is too restricted, the strainer could deform under suction.
  
• Recovery from a major hydraulic service: When changing filters or returning fluid, it’s a good practice to clean or replace the strainer to protect the new filter.
  
• Maintenance precaution: A clean strainer helps ensure proper pump suction and reduces the risk of cavitation (air ingestion).
  

Preparation and Safety

1. Gather Tools and Parts
   • The TL130 workshop manual provides proper torque specs, warns to clean all O-ring grooves, and indicates how to drain and refill.
     
   • Replacement parts: O-rings (recommended to replace), strainer assembly, and possibly hydraulic filters.
     
   • Recommended maintenance kits include:
     • Cross‑Filters Maintenance Kit for TL130
       
     • Hero Maintenance Filter Kit for TL130
       
     • Takeuchi Hydraulic Filter 1551000520
       
2. Drain Hydraulic Fluid
   • Because the TL130’s suction strainer is mounted at the bottom of the tank, simply opening the tank cap will not prevent fluid spillage.
     
   • Use a drain pan capable of holding ~10 gallons to catch the fluid.
     
3. Ventilation and Cleanliness
   • Work in a clean area. Dirt entering the tank defeats the purpose of replacing the strainer.
     
   • Have lint-free rags and a mild solvent or clean hydraulic fluid on hand to wipe parts and seating surfaces.
     

Step-by-Step Replacement

1. Remove the Old Strainer
   • After draining, access the strainer at the bottom of the tank.
     
   • Use an appropriately sized wrench (users report a 2.5" wrench may be needed) to unscrew the strainer housing.
     
   • Carefully lift the strainer so fluid residue does not spill.
     
2. Inspect and Replace Seals
   • Replace the two #12 O-rings from the parts diagram. Several operators strongly recommend using fresh O-rings to prevent leaks or weeping later.
     
   • Clean the O-ring grooves thoroughly.
     
3. Install the New Strainer
   • Insert the new strainer into the tank, making sure it seats correctly.
     
   • Tighten the housing to the torque specification given in the service manual.
     
4. Refill and Bleed the System
   • Refill the tank with approximately 10 gallons of clean hydraulic fluid (matching your previous fill spec or manufacturer recommendation).
     
   • To avoid cavitation or pump damage during startup, use a method to “help” the pump pick up fluid:
     • One recommended trick: apply ~2 psi of air pressure into the tank while cranking a hydraulic function slowly (e.g., lift or tilt) to assist suction.
       
     • Alternatively, loosen a return or pilot line fitting until fluid starts flowing steadily, then tighten back before full operation.
       
   • Run the engine at low idle and cycle boom/arms several times to purge air. According to Takeuchi manual, extend/contract cylinders 4–5 times while lightly loaded to bleed cylinders.
     

Common Troubleshooting & Tips

• Fluid loss: Expect more fluid loss than just the “tank” volume because fluid in hoses and pump may also drain.
  
• Strainer screen checks: If the removed strainer is heavily clogged but the machine still ran, consider increasing the frequency of hydraulic fluid changes or adding a secondary suction filter in the future.
  
• O-ring selection: If Takeuchi parts are unavailable, measure the old O-rings carefully (width, inner diameter) and match with equivalent aftermarket parts.
  
• Avoid cavitation: Do not run the hydrostatic pump dry after replacing the strainer—insufficient suction or poor priming can damage the pump.
  

Why This Matters
A clean and functioning suction strainer is vital. It protects the hydraulic pump from ingesting large debris, ensures reliable fluid delivery, and extends the life of the entire hydraulic system. On a compact loader like the TL130, where hydraulic flow and responsiveness are critical for both drive and auxiliary functions, proper maintenance of this component helps avoid costly repairs and downtime.

Conclusion
Replacing the hydraulic suction strainer in a Takeuchi TL130 involves draining the tank, removing the old strainer, installing new seals, refilling, and carefully priming the system. While the OEM manual suggests only removing the tank cap, practical experience confirms that draining is necessary due to the strainer’s location. With correct parts (like fresh O-rings) and careful reassembly, the job can be completed cleanly and safely, restoring strong pump performance and protecting the hydraulic system for the long run.