1000 Hour Review And Service On The Takeuchi TB260

[@DieselandIron]

Great video showing the maintenance involved in running these machines. It's awesome to see someone care for the equipment instead of just trashing the machine and sending it down the road. I really enjoy your content!

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! Yes these machines are my babies 🤣 I want to make sure they last. Appreciate you watching

[@dansevern3291]

Thanks, I like that kind of video, information from someone who owns one and uses it, and explains what make them feel that way is a whole lot more useful than all the "reviews" on the internet.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! I agree tough to get honest feedback from people that do t normally run them. Appreciate you watching

[@828biggs]

I agree! Love them very happy! I need to tint my windows and put a lightbar on that sure wood be awesome!

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I agree great machines! I love the tinted windows for sure

[@joemascioni3101]

Your brand of machine is one of the reasons that I subscribed to your channel. I owned the same 2 machines as you do except mine were early 2000's model years. And I had a full time job driving my log truck. Takeuchi back then at least in this area was almost unheard of. I was actually the 1st in my area to own one. Had the local Kubota dealer (good friend) get them shipped in for me. Now there are all kinds of uchi's around here! ...lol

[@eliteearthworksllc]

That’s cool! You just can’t beat them, they are simple machines but very strong and reliable. I really enjoy running them. Appreciate the comment 👍🏻

[@ftboomer1]

I'm looking for an excavator for my home property and the 'uchi have great resale. That is a great indicator of the quality of machine.

[@billyshumate853]

Hey Brandon nice video. One thing about it keeping the machine serviced sure helps them last longer. You're right about people having different opinions about different names of machines. Take care and have a blessed weekend.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! Yes it definitely helps prolong the life of it. I agree everyone should find the machine that’s works for them! Appreciate you watching

[@billyshumate853]

@@eliteearthworksllc I would have watched you earlier but the rain on the metal roof put me to sleep. Take care and GOD BLESS

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Lol I understand

[@craigwavra3495]

Good video. Like that you take care of it. Nice looking machine and looks like they are built to last.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! I try to take great care of them. Yes it’s very reliable

[@sonnyblazer5504]

AND they're 'spousal' friendly! Great walkaround review and maintenance. You touched on many important elements of the machine and to me, the proof is watching about ALL your videos and I don't believe I've seen one where this machine has failed on the job - SO THERE! I am subscribed to three of you 'DIRT' people and you all share the same IMPORTANT element, MAINTAIN IT and it will serve you well. Yours has certainly taken on tons of jobs so it's a keeper. Thanks for another one & Hug the family! Sonny (CT)

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! Yes they do. It has been a great machine and done everything I have needed it to do. Yes maintenance is key to keep them lasting. Appreciate the comment

[@blackdogexcavator21]

I agree with your disclaimer on the different brands. You buy what you like personally, what you can afford, what works best for your situation, and dealer access. I run a Bobcat E35. I love the machine as far as its functional factors but being a zero tail swing machine, its a little cramped in the cab. Other than that I have no complaints. Good review my friend.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

That’s awesome! The E35 is a nice machine I use to rent one all the time. It’s all about what you are use too. I get aggravated at people that talk down to equipment you own because they like a different brand. Appreciate you watching man

[@blackdogexcavator21]

@@eliteearthworksllc I guess those people who talk down about other people's equipment either have a pocket full of money or just get too brand loyal and won't even consider another brand. I always heard that if everybody is thinking alike then somebody's not thinking.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

That is very true! I agree people definitely get too brand loyal and I bet your right most of the time they want you to believe they have a pocket full of money 🤣

[@Diddley-js6lf]

I have 996 our ours and I absolutely love it.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

They are great machines. Mine has 1900 hours on it now

[@kennymysak2079]

Great little setup and you have to be comfortable when you working . Mrs Elite supper was round steak and baked potato. And you better get on him about keeping it clean fir when you run it next . Keep up the great videos

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! Oh she will 😁 and dinner sounded delicious!

[@mrs.eliteearthworks]

Can’t beat good old fashioned meat & taters! And yes he’s better keep it clean enough for me cause I want to run it again soon!

[@stedder8436]

It really is personal preference. It’s just like ford, chevy, and dodge. Nice work 👍🏻

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yep that’s how I see it! Thank you!

[@bourbonthebiscuit]

Its a nice machine I like it and looks like you take care of it, great job 👍

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! Yes I really like it!

[@charlesbourgeois9029]

Wish my mini looked like that haha

[@drewgardner81]

Just replaced the fan belt on mine. What a pita. I love my TB260 though.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I would imagine it’s cramped in there

[@carlosvaldez1126]

Great video good job I love tuning heavy equipment

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you!

[@twhigday]

Great review!!! It’s not an excavator, but I’ve got my TL8R2 on order. Should be here within the next few weeks or so. More than excited!!! Looking to improve my efficiency and my maneuverability vs the tractor I’ve been using for grading and material moving on new home construction.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! That’s awesome those 8’s are beasts! I would love to have one for smaller projects. Best of luck with the new machine 👍🏻

[@samschneider7473]

Good video Elite! And yes you are correct on your pump story..

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! Good deal I was hoping I explained that right lol

[@kennethhume8628]

That was a very interesting video Brandon , most enjoyable . 🇬🇧

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! I appreciate you watching

[@mikenixon9164]

Looks like a nice machine. Good video.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! I really feel it is!

[@HankinsExcavating]

I always thought the same way about the thumb teeth! I think I'll make 2 more along with the teeth for the back of the frost knife.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yes I don’t know why they come that way they should at least have the option for more tines

[@DirtBrute]

I love Takeuchi for Maintenance.seems to be well thought out . It would be real easy for you to add two more fingers to that thumb . I actually cut my thumb completely up when I got my machine (used) and rebuilt it to the way that I wanted it I’ll send you a pic. If you cut a cardboard pattern similar to the two middle fingers that wrap around the tube . You can bring the Pattern into a steelyard and have them cut you 2 Hardaux fingers and then just weld them on ! Great video 👍

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Oh cool that’s a great idea! I agree everything is just easy to get too. I would love to have two more tines on it, it seems like it should makes sense

[@DirtBrute]

@@eliteearthworksllc yeah when I got mine it was a straight box tube amulet thumb .I wanted one tine/finger in between each bucket tooth. For grabbing very small stuff . I actually cut them out of old peterbilt air leaf springs 😂

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Lol that’s pretty cool, and good thinking

[@CaptKirk1701]

You need to have Mrs. Elite in the background like Vanna White in these videos! 😂😂

[@eliteearthworksllc]

🤣🤣 good thinking

[@stuntmanbillstella]

Great review. Very candid

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you!

[@BentTreeFarmPa]

Great job Brandon.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thanks man!

[@marcelrobert9178]

Great instructions. Thanks

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you!

[@littlefinkle7757]

Definitely believe everyone should have a hydraulic quick coupler! I am wanting to get my windows tinted. My excavator has a sun shade that will cover up the roof glass, wish my skid steer did! I do not have the angled blade. My machine came with an option for a tool carrier for like a 2 in 1 bucket but due to Corona and availability I just got the straight blade. I like my skid steer travel option I have on the excavator that allows me to walk with joy sticks if I choose. It's just a button to push on the left stick. Definitely looking at a tilt grading bucket. I was going to put it in my letter to Santa, but she doesn't know I have an excavator yet so I decided to hold off😛 Great video!

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Lol you may want to get her something before you tell her about the excavator 😁. Yes the hydraulic coupler should just be standard if you ask me. Yes I really want a tilt grading bucket would be so handy.

[@littlefinkle7757]

@@eliteearthworksllc she has me! What else could she possibly need😂. Definitely working on something special for her I have been blessed with a terrific wife! For sure!

[@eliteearthworksllc]

@@littlefinkle7757 🤣🤣 good point! That could be tough to beat! Best of luck

[@brettharris4236]

I've been very interested in your videos, specifically due to the TB 260....went to the dealer to look at one a few weeks ago and thinking really hard about pulling the trigger... I have a Yanmar vio 35 machine now, that I will keep (its currently my only excavator). I primarily do residential work and some small tree/brush clearing.....thinking the 260 would really be a nice addition. Ive been looking at every other brand just to be sure and I keep coming back to the Tak.. the only other one I'm considering is the Deere 60G.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I love mine, the power and balance is fantastic. The controls are very smooth too. Good luck on whatever you get 👍🏻

[@98Pete]

Looks to be good machine

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I’m very happy with it!

[@papaw5405]

I'm not an engineer but I want to say that the extra little bit of length of that blade gives the machine a lot more stability.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

That’s probably true and with the counter weight being a touch bigger and moved back it helps as well. That’s what I really love about this machine it’s so well balanced

[@Digginok]

I liked the one I ran a bit, they only thing I noticed was the a/c control was kinda like a 1985 Datsun, but it did work. Do they make a backhoe yet? Still not diggin the spinning round things much, I get too dizzy! Lol Tak seems to make a solid machine

[@eliteearthworksllc]

They are nice! They make a wheeled excavator is that close enough 🤣 but I see where you are coming from.

[@Digginok]

@@eliteearthworksllc yeah that might work, only if it has a front end loader though.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Lol I’m sure we could do that

[@scruffy6151]

Thank you for your review.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you for watching

[@johndorazio2400]

I like mine too it works great

[@eliteearthworksllc]

They are great machines!

[@sassafrasvalley1939]

Brandon, did I detect a spot of grease on the floor? I’m gonna have to bag you up some planer chips so you can soak that up! That was a good look at how easy it is to service the Koochie. Heck, changing the oil in my baby backhoe is 10 times as messy. And, the hydraulic filter is sure to soak you too! Now about what excavator I prefer... one that someone else owns! I like to watch.. Tell me what Adobe software I need to get for my Windows PC and I’ll get it for some future lessons.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Lol I ran out of oil dry. Yeah it’s pretty easy to service. I use Adobe Premiere Elements I really like it and it’s pretty easy to use. I can come over and walk you through it. Just takes a little practice

[@DanDanger42207]

Great machine!!! Takeuchi makes the best compact equipment! 👍🏽

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I agree they do!

[@michaelweatherhead9470]

Great video

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you!

[@michaelkoop6731]

It seems that these seem to be mostly run in the east are these red and white machines. Where I'm at it all yellow and black and white and black or that kubota color. Thanks for this video. U always do good videos Brandon. I agree, u need to have ur wife do the Vana White!!! Thanks buddy. Hay Brandon could u do a talk about all ur attachments for both ur machines. I would like to see that video. Maybe with that one ur opinion on the attachments took. Thank and have a wonderful holiday season.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yeah their headquarters is in Atlanta Georgia so that makes sense. Lol she would do great there. I could do that, I had the machine outside with the attachments the first time I did the review video but it was cold and rainy this time lol. I’ll make a video appreciate the idea

[@michaelkoop6731]

@@eliteearthworksllc thanks man. Yeah ur wife would do great.

[@bosshogg6030]

great video buddy 😎👊🏻👍🏻

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thanks man

[@bosshogg6030]

@@eliteearthworksllc you are welcome buddy 😀

[@chrispatoine7354]

Thanks for the video. I just got a used TB240 and am doing the maintenance on it. Very similar you yours and your video has been very helpful. My manual says to check the slew pinion gear every 500 hours. I didn't see you do that in your video. I took off the cover plate, but the picture in my manual isn't very clear about how to check the pinion lube. Any tips or advice you can give?

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! If I remember right you take up the rubber floor mat and over by the swing boom pedal is a plate you unbolt and check the level of grease in the skew gear. I checked but but I don’t think I went it in the video. It should be in the same location on the 240

[@Olliegunns]

Those 6t Takuchi's are a great machine, they keep it simple but ultra reliable. Do you find it runs a little slower than other brands? I always feel they are smooth as butter, but just a little slower than the Kubota equivalent? Love that angle blade, would like to have one on my next machine. Was it an expensive upgrade?

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yes they are great machines! It does seem like certain things it is a touch slower. You are right though very smooth. I think the angle blade was on $1500 more so definitely worth the money. Appreciate you watching

[@rowanwilliams3106]

When you say slower , do you mean slew speed , track speed etc ?

[@mrandrewdennis1]

Great review!!

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thanks buddy!

[@jonathanbeam6898]

Does the window tint cut down on AC usage? I'm looking at getting a TB 240, but they are 4 to 6 months out. I have had a Takeuchi TL140 since 2006 and it's still running strong. Takeuchi's are simple, durable and affordable. I think that's why lots of rental companies buy them.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yes it does help with the ac and keeps the sun off you. I agree they are very strong reliable machines. My TL250 has 9255 hours and is still running strong

[@michaelhuhn532]

Dang, your goong to catch me soon. Im at 1270hrs. I wish i would have gone with the hydraulic coupler instead of my mechanical one. Just wasnt in the budget.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Lol I’ll be there sooner I’m at 1042 now. Yeah they are a bit pricey. Mechanical still beats no coupler at all

[@michaelhuhn532]

Definitely better.

[@jonathanbeam6898]

I've been waiting on a Takeuchi TB 240, renting a TB 230 in the meantime. Amazing how the TB 230 at 6400 pounds keeps up or surpasses the John Deere 35G 8,000 pounds, zero tail swing in breakout force, and lift capacity. Huge performance loss with the zero tail swing, but it's definitley safer around houses, trees, cars. Where we work, you pay big fines if you damage a tree. I can pickup a Sany 35U this week or wait 4-6 months and keep throwing away rental money in the meantime. Do you think the Takeuchi TB 240 is that much better than a Sany 35 or 50 U?

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yeah they are great machines! I would definitely go with the Takeuchi over the sany any day. I know it’s sucks to wait but you will definitely be happier in the long run. And the Takeuchi will last much longer

[@beersfamily3426]

On my 260, there are 2 grease fittings where you grease the slew bearing. On the top one, we were able to see grease come out but not with the bottom one. Do you know where the bottom fitting grease goes to? Also, when you grease the slew bearing, do you pump until you see it come out the bottom then turn?

[@eliteearthworksllc]

The bottom fitting goes the swing cylinder on the boom. I just put a few pumps in my slew gear. I don’t think you want to see it out of the bottom. I believe you can blow the seal out by greasing too much. Just a few pumps on the 4 different directions every 50 hours

[@jimmydickson8854]

There a good machine quality and reliable have you considered a tilt rotor so you could angles your bucket for ditch work or any digging ,just a though ,I know it’s money ,old jimmy Aust

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yes it’s been a great machine! Yeah a tilt rotator would be awesome they look very handy!

[@tomwainwright7102]

As Logger would say `nice vidja` didn`t realise your nice clean and tidy shop is that big,I only wish that could have kept that clean whenever I did a service.Just one question Brandon, how often does Mrs Elite call round with her tin of polish? She`s kept it looking brand new.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Lol thanks and yes that’s what he would say. The shop is better than what is was but still pretty dirty. Lol we’ve waxed it a few times trying to keep it looking new as long as possible. Appreciate you watching

[@sonnyblazer5504]

The other thing is, on this one they gave you easy access to the battery. Now if they would do that to your other pride & joy it would be good. Later! Sonny (CT)

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Lol that is true the excavators are way easy to get to everything

[@JJconcrete]

Takeuchi is the best!!!!

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yes they are!

[@JJconcrete]

@@eliteearthworksllc I'm getting a 240 and I can't wait till it gets here its a month out. I've been building my business for 6 years and I can finally afford to go buy one

[@eliteearthworksllc]

That’s awesome! Congrats! It takes awhile but such a great feeling when it finally happens 👍🏻

[@bryanmartin4679]

Hi Brandon. Another great, well thought out video. What size grading bucket do you recommend for the 260? Believe you said in another video you had a 42”? I’ve had other people tell me it’s too big for that machine so wanted to get your opinion. Whatever you are using seems to be handling fine. Thanks from KC.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! I have a 42” grading but it could easily handle a 48” The grading buckets aren’t as tall as the digging buckets so they don’t weigh as much. My 36” tooth bucket holds more material than that 42” I’ve only had it feel tippy once loading mud with the 36” and I had it extended over the side of the track.

[@austinavery4772]

This is what im wondering about my bobcat e60r2. Thinking of a 42 grading bucket. My 36 can be chock full all the way out over side tracks and bounce it wont lift a track. Long arm but i do have a counter weight. Anyone run a 60 with larger grading bucket?

[@hphillips7425]

Good video I am curious what all the filters cost.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! I think around $125 the hydraulic and air filters were the most

[@brianherron5400]

Nice equipment. Is that a shared building if not you have alot of grasshopper mowers 🙂

[@mrs.eliteearthworks]

I agree, he DOES have nice equipment 😉😄

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! Yes my dad has his landscaping business there. I think he is up to 6 grasshoppers lol

[@eliteearthworksllc]

😎😁

[@BentTreeFarmPa]

@@mrs.eliteearthworks OMG get a room!!! LOL Those of us who have been married for more than 2 decades and wish we weren't don't need to hear things like this.

[@mrs.eliteearthworks]

@@BentTreeFarmPa 😂 Sorry not sorry!

[@shizzleinthenizzle]

tip for greasing the slew ring. sit in the cab with grease gun attached to nipple. hold down trigger while you rotate.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I’m not sure if my grease hose is long enough with having a cab

[@shizzleinthenizzle]

Open side window mate 👍

[@mikekopie9897]

What make engine is in that and have there been any emission issues with it? Great video as usual Brandon! 👍

[@eliteearthworksllc]

It’s a 50 horsepower yanmar and no emissions issues so far. The biggest thing is keep the engine running warm. I let it warm up for a few minutes at idle then it usually goes to half throttle. I run it wide open and if I need to get out I back down to half throttle or shut it off if it’s going to be more than 5 minutes. You have to run them completely different than you use too lol

[@mikekopie9897]

@@eliteearthworksllc Your exactly right Brandon. I never run my equipment with emissions less than half throttle. Thanks for your response !

[@eliteearthworksllc]

@@mikekopie9897 yep it’s crazy now heat is your friend lol

[@mrs.eliteearthworks]

Hello! 😁

[@DC-1]

Hi!! 🙋‍♂️

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Hey 😁😘

[@mrs.eliteearthworks]

@@DC-1 Hi!! 🙋‍♀️

[@mrs.eliteearthworks]

@@eliteearthworksllc How you doin? 😘

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Good! You?

[@patricklacasse2877]

I have four tines on my thumb TB 240 2020

[@eliteearthworksllc]

That’s cool my be an upgrade then

[@dadsexcavation3498]

What do you haul the 260 with

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I use my Peterbilt 377 and my Felling 25 ton trailer. That’s what I haul everything with

[@davecrable1356]

1,000 hours!? Time to trade it in for a larger machine 😜

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Lol I agree it’s almost worn out 🤣

[@mrs.eliteearthworks]

Don’t give him any ideas! 😂

[@eliteearthworksllc]

😁

[@beeroquoisnation]

@@eliteearthworksllc If the price is right I might be a player! :P

[@eliteearthworksllc]

😁

[@albanlita1348]

Hi there, does anyone knows where the cabin air filter is on Takeuchi tb260?

[@eliteearthworksllc]

There’s one below the seat in the front and the other is behind the seat in that little box

[@justinprince7028]

Do you have a link to the Light bar you used? just purchased a 260 and would love to add one.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yes some where I’ll see if I can find it. I know it’s a 39” bar I got off Amazon

[@justinprince7028]

@@eliteearthworksllc I've seen a few but would rather get one I know works.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I get that I’ll look through my history and see if I can find it right quick

[@timmymalone5444]

Those are good little machines.👍 Are those the original tracks?

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yes they are, they get cut up here from the rock but still have a lit of life left.

[@vaughnburrows]

What number of tint are you using on the windows

[@eliteearthworksllc]

15 on the sides and back and 35 on the front glass

[@vaughnburrows]

@@eliteearthworksllc Thanks

[@MegaPgarrett]

What did you use for the light bar up top of the cab?

[@eliteearthworksllc]

It’s a 39” led light I got off Amazon for like $70. I’ll see if I can find the link to it

[@MegaPgarrett]

@@eliteearthworksllc I just got a tb260 and really like the light setup you put on yours.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

It makes a huge difference

[@christopherhuffman1920]

What percent tint on your glass? I Really want to tint my 311C!

[@eliteearthworksllc]

15 on the sides and back and 30 on the front glass.

[@christopherhuffman1920]

Good deal! Thanks for the reply!!

[@graysquirreltreeservice7299]

Cool video again 😎, I'm Brandon too🤣🤣🤣

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thank you! Lol right on!

[@graysquirreltreeservice7299]

@@eliteearthworksllc how's the 260 pull stumps?

[@graysquirreltreeservice7299]

U have a instagram? I am graysquirreltree on instagram 👍

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Great especially with the ripper. I have a few videos where I cleared an acre or so with it

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yes I’m on Instagram

[@dirtworxlandmanagement8694]

What was the cost difference between the TB260 and a 305 cat?

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I’m not sure. I paid $89k for my 260 with the quick coupler and 4 buckets

[@dirtworxlandmanagement8694]

Seems to be in the ball park. I always see your pics on IG ur works looks spot on keep it up brotha

[@eliteearthworksllc]

@@dirtworxlandmanagement8694 thanks I appreciate that! I figured it was close to a 305 I think they start at $74k but the blade, coupler and all my buckets added up

[@bosshogg6030]

did you change the final drive motor oil

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yes but I forgot to hit the record button 🤦🏼‍♂️🤣

[@bosshogg6030]

@@eliteearthworksllc lol 😅😂🤣

[@bosshogg6030]

maybe next time

[@jasonbryant7075]

What shade tint did you do

[@eliteearthworksllc]

15 on the sides and back and 35 on the front glass

[@jasonbryant7075]

@@eliteearthworksllc do you think 5 on the sides is too dark with 35 or 20 on the front

[@eliteearthworksllc]

@@jasonbryant7075no that’s probably what I’ll do on the next one

[@jasonbryant7075]

@@eliteearthworksllc just got it done today thanks for the help

[@boitanoexcavation3564]

Greeeezz😂😁🤣

[@eliteearthworksllc]

😁

[@crashmarvin80]

Can’t find any info out there from other videos. Putting a quick coupler on my tb260. It’s used and only the coupler. Do you know what the purpose of the block the hoses go into? Trying to figure out why they don’t just run the hoses straight to the coupler. Thanks

[@eliteearthworksllc]

I think it may be just for mounting and routing purposes so when you curl and dump the bucket the hoses don’t get caught up

[@crashmarvin80]

@@eliteearthworksllc thanks.going to pick it up this weekend.

[@KG-yn9qi]

👋🧙‍♂️🇺🇸, 👍👀📹, 👌🍻😎

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Thanks man!

[@larryshedd5734]

Yeah doesn't take long to get hours on them. Seem like not long ago you and Mrs Elite were going to get it in her baby seat in dump.

[@eliteearthworksllc]

Yeah it went by quick lol