Can I Fix My Mini Digger? First Time Out in 8 Months!

In this video, I get my Takeuchi mini digger back up and running after it’s been stored in my shipping container for 8 months. The main problem? It was overheating, with the temperature gauge way above the red line. After some troubleshooting, I discover that the issue was caused by a wiring problem. Watch as I diagnose and fix the overheating issue to get the digger running smoothly again.
I also check over the machine’s condition, including the seals on the rams that are weeping hydraulic fluid. While the hydraulic leak isn’t making the digger unsafe to use, it’s something I’ll have to fix soon. To keep the machine in working order, I lubricate the necessary nipples and point out other areas needing attention.
If you're new to heavy machinery like me, this video is a great way to learn the basics of diagnosing and fixing common issues. From wiring problems causing overheating to maintaining components like hydraulic seals and lubricating key parts, we’ll go through it step by step. Join me as we figure out how to keep equipment running smoothly and tackle repairs together. Let me know in the comments what you'd fix next on this mini digger-let's learn as we go.
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About me:
I'm Aiden and I'm documenting what was supposed to be my barn conversion, which has now ended up being a new build. I don't have a trade, I just have a go and I'll be doing lots of work myself. This is the boring bit in grand designs that you don't get to see. Subscribe and follow along to find out how our future home turns out.
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[@mojonojo3]

TESA tape is your friend for wiring looms

[@over-engineered]

Don’t disconnect the battery positive! disconnect the negative. If your spanner touches the chassis there won’t be a massive flash when disconnecting the negative. Always disconnect the negative first (assuming it’s a negative earth system - most common).

[@THE-AIDEN-PROJECT]

@@over-engineered 😅 good bloody point! I always forget which one to do first

[@s.wilson5675]

Cheers Aiden.... That was such a sexy video, you got me playing with my nipples! Joking aside, I'd do oil/filter change on engine first but I've no experience with old diggers!

[@guinnessmad]

I do enjoy your videos.. I started watching coz of the house build, but some of the random shit you post about is so good. You've got a way with words and editing that makes me watch them all no matter what they're about.. I'm really glad you kept going with the channel :)

[@dougsaunders8109]

If you are thinking about re threading, it could be worth checking out the thread type. Could NPT not metric. 100% sure. If I talking bollocks at least you have a comment for the algorithm 😂

[@ottofumbler7267]

Would suggest you concentrate on the engine first, as an engine rebuild is the hardest thing to do. Oil, oil filter, fuel filter, air filter, etc. It's not expensive, and gives you a fighting chance to then take care of the rest.

[@grumpygrandpa3640]

lol that’s got some hours on it ! Oil change and filters I’d do last as you really need to get it leak free and straight once that’s sorted and it works correctly then do a full service. It’s certainly had a hard life poor old girl. Hydraulic press and heat well get it straight again but it will weaken the steel so if you can weld on some extra support, seals are cheap enough and those nipples under the seat are for the rotation grease every quarter turn. Don’t use penetrating fluid to lube it will just attract dust and grit and give you more headaches later on better to just replace the nipples if you can.

[@dougdavidson175]

Engine oil, final drives then seals. Just my 2p. Take care & stay safe

[@tomvincent5596]

The ones you thought were spare grease the under main bearings. The part you spin around on. Grease every 90°

[@THE-AIDEN-PROJECT]

Ahaa, slew ring bearings?

[@tomvincent5596]

Yeah don't know the correct name for it but yes that's sound right lol. My kubota has two nipples for it

[@normanboyes4983]

A good hydraulic press should be able to straighten those bent heavy plates (with a bit of heat to help it along).

[@RuthTappinGilder]

cup of tea

[@THE-AIDEN-PROJECT]

😂

[@101projects2]

I would only put grease through the nipples until I see a tiny bit of grease come past the seal then stop, excessive amounts of grease pushing past the seal can pop the seals off.

[@Swwils]

Hey nate i know exactly whats wtong its pretty sinple just take a look at th