The Iseki TX1300(F) under a magnifying glass

If you are familiar with the compact tractor industry, then everyone has heard of the Iseki TX series, such as the; Iseki TX1000, TX1210, TX1300, TX1410, TX1500, TX144, TX155, TX2140 and TX2160. In this blog, we write an article about the Iseki TX1300 2 cylinder with Mitsubishi KE70 engine. The reason for this is a great brochure that was supposed to market the Iseki TX1300 in 1978-1981. The model and its functionality are described in detail. The slogan “Let Iseki help you reduce costs on your farm!” certainly proved itself. The quality and solidity, read simplicity, has always been paramount. Still, we often come across questions about this tractor that we would like to answer through this blog. Below, we will discuss a number of practical issues and give tips on parts that are often ordered from us.

2wd or 4wd?

The Iseki TX1300 and TX1300F

The leaflet revealed that the tractor could be supplied in 2wd; the TX1300 and in 4WD called the TX1300F. The 4WD should in fact provide up to 50% more traction in heavy and/or muddy conditions. Also, the balance on the 4WD TX1300F should be very good to keep the weight in the front in the middle so that the tractor would be flat and balanced especially in heavy conditions. Power loss is not possible according to the brochure due to a new technique Iseki has used in the cardan shaft of the 4WD. In the past, we have owned an Iseki TX1000, several TX1410s and TX1510s and can definitely conclude that these are very strong tractors on any surface.

What are the three red lights for?

The instrument cluster

From left to right;

On the left is the oil lamp, if it is on, check the oil level. And the oil pressure if necessary. Another known problem is the oil sensor that needs to be replaced.

The middle lamp indicates the functionality of the battery and dynamo. If the light is on, measure the voltage on the battery. If it is too low, the alternator needs to be replaced or overhauled.

On the right is the water temperature light. When this light comes on, there are often a number of parts that can be defective, namely; The radiator, which is actually the most well-known problem due to clogging that occurs internally. The water pump can also be defective, causing the temperature to rise. And finally, a faulty head gasket. What many people do not know is that the Mitsubishi KE70, delivered in the TX1300, has three different head gaskets. This needs to be checked during disassembly.

We have written down the torque values for the KE70 engine in our previous blog about the possible assembly of the head gasket. The rest of the instrument panel speaks for itself, however, we have often had the question about the three red lights. Please note that the clockwise turning of the start button preheats the engine. A two-cylinder engine is often more difficult to start than a three-cylinder engine. Therefore, it is important that the glow plugs function correctly. The Iseki TX1300 can have 2 different types of glow plugs, for questions about this, please contact us!

What about the different levers?

From the 4WD lever to the reverse and brake pedals

The illustration below highlights a number of components.

The differential lock(10) is operated by kicking it in and the differential locks. Both wheels rotate simultaneously and can provide extra traction in extremely tough conditions. However, never use a lock in a corner or when driving on the street! This also applies to the 4wd. Always switch it off on the street. The P.T.O.(2) has 3 positions which are engaged by means of the clutch. However, with this type of tractor the PTO disengages when the clutch is depressed. This can be annoying when mowing awkward corners.

What about the clutch and its wear?

From features to replacing the clutch

If the tractor vibrates when using the clutch, the gear lever has difficulty selecting the correct gear and the clutch slips, the clutch should be replaced. It is often thought that only the clutch disc needs to be replaced. However, our advice is to buy our assembled clutch set. This is because in 90% of cases, the pressure plate and pressure bearing are also worn out. Disassembling the clutch takes some time, but is relatively easy to do. In order to make things clear, we always advise working with a manual.

Bad starting after replacing the glow plugs?

The tractor is smoking and will not or only poorly start with starting aid.

The starting problem occurs more often than expected and we would like to give some tips if this occurs. First of all, we offer complete overhaul sets if the engine is subject to wear. These overhaul sets consist of a gasket set, pistons + piston rings, connecting rod bearings, seals, main bearings, valve seals and the head gasket. Oversized pistons and connecting rod bearings are available. Returning to the problem, there are a number of issues that are often the underlying problem. The best known cause is the piston rings. Another example can be a clogged air filter, but it is often recognised that this is the easiest thing to start with. Even rarer is a problem with the fuel pump or the injectors. We always recommend asking a diesel specialist about problems with the injectors. This also applies, of course, to testing the injectors. This often solves the problem easily and at low cost.

What are the sizes and technical specifications?

The technical data

Motor, length and PTO speeds.

The speeds in km/h and rotary tiller specifications.

In the meantime, some things have become clear about the Iseki TX1300. Please note that 95% of the above information is the same as for the Iseki TX1500 with the KE75 engine. In addition, the story about the poor starting and the transmission also applies to other tractors. We are proud that we were able to get hold of the brochure and share some crucial information with you.

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