What Causes a Loader's Brake to Feel Soft and Fail to Stop?
3 Answers
Here are the reasons why a loader's brake feels soft and fails to stop: Air in the brake line: Brake fluid is the medium transmitted in the braking system. If air enters the brake line, the brake fluid under high pressure will appear insufficient in strength. Although there is braking power, the maximum braking force is significantly reduced. Brake fluid not replaced: The brake fluid has not been replaced for a long time. If the brake fluid is not replaced in time, it will contain excessive impurities and moisture, which will affect the transmission of braking force. Oil leakage or brake material too soft: Usually, oil leakage from the brake master cylinder or brake line will cause the vehicle's brake to soften. If the brake material is too soft, its high-temperature stability will also deteriorate, leading to a soft brake.
I've been operating loaders for nearly ten years and have encountered the issue of soft brakes that don't stop effectively several times. Common causes include air entering the brake system, leading to insufficient hydraulic pressure; low or deteriorated brake fluid levels affecting pressure transmission; excessive wear of brake pads or discs causing insufficient friction. It could also be due to leaking oil pipes or seals, allowing fluid to escape; or a faulty master cylinder or wheel cylinder causing similar symptoms. Whenever I notice soft brakes, my first step is to check the reservoir level and top up with new fluid if low. If the pedal feels spongy or sinks noticeably when pressed, it's likely an air issue, which a bleeding procedure can resolve. Safety comes first—operating with such faults on-site can easily lead to accidents. I recommend regular inspections of brake components and changing brake fluid annually as a preventive habit to avoid sudden failures. Delaying repairs not only risks safety but may also damage other parts, costing more time and money. For a precise diagnosis, consulting a professional repair shop to identify the exact cause is the safest approach.
Soft brakes or ineffective braking are serious issues that directly impact personal safety. In loaders, this is often caused by hydraulic system abnormalities: air leakage into the brake system leading to insufficient oil pressure; or low/contaminated brake fluid reducing braking force; component failures like master cylinders or boosters causing delayed response. If the pedal feels weak and the issue is ignored, it may lead to loss of control during heavy-load operations and accidents. I recommend stopping immediately and checking fluid levels and quality in a safe area. Top up if low, replace if dirty—but avoid DIY fixes; seek professional repair promptly. Develop a monthly brake inspection habit, as regular maintenance reduces risks. Ignoring this can turn minor issues into major failures and increase accident risks—a costly trade-off. Remember, the core of safe operation is prevention—never be careless.
