Takeuchi TL8: Problems, Durability, Repairs

The Takeuchi TL8 is a compact track loader for heavy-duty construction, rental, grading, and landscaping applications. Japanese company Takeuchi reputed globally for developing high-quality compact track loaders, manufactures TL8. The TL8 is notable for its versatility and reliability across various tasks in different environments.

The TL8 has some shortcomings despite its overall reliability, like any other machinery. So, in this article, we will assess some of the common issues with the Takeuchi TL8. But before that, we will overview the Takeuchi TL8's specs. Following that, we will discuss how durable the Takeuchi TL8 is. Lastly, we will consider the nature of repairs required by the TL8.

Takeuchi Tl8: An Overview

Takeuchi introduced the TL8 compact track loader in 2014. TL8 was the smallest track loader in Takeuchi's line-up at launch. Operating with a cab, the TL8 weighs 8631 pounds, and with a canopy, it weighs 8455 pounds. The TL8 has 9127 pounds of traction force, a break-out force of 6800 pounds, and a higher than 6700-pound loader arm force. Additionally, the TL8 has a radial lift loader design and a tipping load of 6020 pounds.

Powered by a 74.3 horsepower (55.4 Kilowatt) Kubota V3307-CR-Turbo engine, the Takeuchi TL8 engine uses a common rail fuel injection system, diesel particulate filter, and diesel oxidation catalyst. With a 15.7-inch standard track, the TL8's ground pressure stays low at 4.4 pounds per square inch (PSI). Furthermore, the TL8 has a 2105-pound operating capacity, allowing heavy-duty tasks.

Equipped with high and low speeds, the TL8 can reach a high speed of 6.8 miles per hour (MPH) and a low speed of 4.6mph. Its operating height is 153.7 inches, with a Max. Lift Height to Bucket Pin of 119 inches.

On its climate impact, the TL8's Kubota V3307 engine meets the environmental protection agency's tier 4 diesel engine standards. Tier 4 is the strictest emission standard from the environmental protection agency for diesel engines used off the highway.

TL8 has earned a reputation for outstanding performance, features, mechanism, reliability, and drive. Above all, the TL8's engine performance and maximum lift capacity make it a standout choice, especially for farming and construction work.

Durability Of the Takeuchi TL8

Takeuchi has a reputation for using high-quality components in its track loaders. They have built a distinction for producing reliable, compact track loaders that comply with stringent quality standards. In this regard, the Takeuchi TL8 is also known for its durability. Hence, if you maintain the machine well, you will seldom need to replace the TL8's parts.

The TL8's design allows it to withstand heavy use and abuse. Also, the Takeuchi TL8's durability is partly due to its fully welded frame and integrated cross members. Furthermore, the TL8's undercarriage design is sturdy, as its heavy-duty rollers and sprockets can withstand rough terrain.

The undercarriage can maintain steel-to-steel contact between the forged steel imbeds and the heavy rollers. The TL8 undercarriage's two contact points make getting off track or stuck almost impossible. All this helps the TL8 maintain excellent traction and track durability.

Takeuchi Tl8: Problems

1) Replacement Parts Are Expensive

Takeuchi maintains high standards in manufacturing compact track loaders; they do not cheapen out on parts. Thus, replacing a damaged part of the TL8 can be costly, especially compared to similar offerings from their competitors. But you can remedy this problem by searching for aftermarket parts from third-party manufacturers. Although, there is no doubt that genuine parts from Takeuchi will perform better in the TL8. Takeuchi designs and tests its machine's components to meet high-performance standards.

So, while the TL8, like many of its sibling's track loaders, is very durable, it might cost you a fair whack if a part needs replacement. You can save cash by comparing component costs across different dealers, online, and nearby stores.

2) Difficulty Finding Replacement Parts

Takeuchi is one of the highest-quality compact track loader manufacturers in the USA. However, more popular manufacturers such as Bobcat, Caterpillar, John Deere, and Kubota have more far-reaching products. Sourcing parts and even the TL8 itself may be more complex than sourcing the same things from more popular compact track loader manufacturers.

3) Doors Get Heavy

Over time with regular use, it is not unusual for the TL8's doors to become heavier, leading to stuck or difficult-to-open doors. Improper or inadequate TL8 maintenance will cause this problem, as the screws loosen with constant use. Shaking or jiggling the door may help you open it if it is stuck. To fix this, check the TL8's door screws for looseness. If the screws are loose, use a screwdriver to tighten them.

Getting the TL8 serviced now and then by a certified track loader mechanic will prevent this problem and other issues. Early detection of the problem will lead to early fixes. Should the door or part of its mechanism suffer damage beyond repair, a replacement can be expensive, as we have before established.

4) Gets Stuck in Muddy Surfaces

The TL8, like most track loaders, struggles in very muddy ground conditions. There are some terrains unsuitable for track loaders. Muddy surfaces stand out. In muddy conditions, the TL8 may get stuck. Yet, even if it does not get stuck, the TL8's speed will take a hit depending on the terrain's muddiness. Considering the track loaders build, there is currently no way to work around this problem adequately. All you can do is pay attention to the areas where you work and be careful or, better still, avoid deep muddy areas.

5) Hydraulic Issues

On technical problems, one of the more common issues with the TL8 is a hydraulic system problem. The hydraulic system of the TL8 provides power for the loader's different functions. A hydraulic system issue will slow operations or cause machine failure. Common symptoms of hydraulic failure in TL8 may include slow track operation and weak operation of auxiliary functions. A common cause of hydraulic problems is low hydraulic fluid, which you can remedy by topping it up.

If topping up the hydraulic fluid does not resolve the problem, there might be a blocked hydraulic line or an issue with the hydraulic pump. Either of those two problems will need an expert to diagnose and fix.

6) Exhaust Aftertreatment

Maintenance practices for Tier 4 compliant machines differ significantly from those of older machines. The Takeuchi TL8 is Tier 4 compliant. Tier 4 engines need exhaust aftertreatment. It can be frustrating when you get a notification from the TL8's computer system that the machine needs regeneration. It is crucial to perform exhaust aftertreatment when required, regardless of how tiresome it might be. Otherwise, failure to maintain the exhaust may cause costly damage to the engine, turbocharger, or aftertreatment system.

With the TL8, the machine can automatically regenerate to reduce soot loads. Other times you will receive a notification from the system requiring you to stop working and administer a stationary treatment.

Takeuchi Tl8: Repairs

The Takeuchi TL8 is a durable machine that, if maintained and serviced regularly, will rarely run into problems. Also, the cost of repairs depends on the specific situation the TL8 is facing at that moment.

Some issues that may require repairs in the TL8 are the tracks. The tracks will wear out with prolonged usage, especially under arduous conditions. But you can cut track wear with regular inspection, cleaning, and tensioning.

You should also regularly clean up the TL8, which will help you identify areas to fix earlier. Considering the arduous and mucky work you may put the machine through daily, there might be a temptation not to clean. Yet, it is critical to clean because abrasive materials like gravel and clay could cause unwanted damage, corrosion, and uneven wear.

Also, it is vital to perform exhaust aftertreatment to prevent soot from building up to a point where the machine de-rates. Such situations can cause engine damage.

Outside of physical inspections, the TL8 has an engine monitoring system. The system helps detect problems that need attention through error codes. The TL8's multi-information system displays the error codes to users. You can check the meaning of each error code in the machine's manual.

An issue with the TL8 that might impact repairs is the cost of replacing parts. Since Takeuchi models use high-quality parts, repairs that require replacing a component may be more expensive than with compact track loaders made by other companies.

Despite their quality, Takeuchi's are less popular than competing products from manufacturers like John Deere and Bobcat. Lowered relative popularity may see you go further to find mechanics specializing in servicing the Takeuchi TL8. Sourcing replacement parts for the TL8 may be more challenging than competing track loaders.

Conclusion

The Takeuchi TL8 is a versatile, reliable, durable track loader for heavy-duty construction, farming, and landscaping applications. Nonetheless, like other machines, it has shortcomings that you should consider. Hydraulic and door issues are possible, and genuine replacement parts may be difficult and expensive to source. Regular maintenance, especially by certified track loader mechanics, can prevent most of the TL8's technical issues.

If you are considering purchasing the TL8, comparing its positives and negatives with competing products might be prudent.