Brakes are one of the most repeated procedures and used on many items besides vehicles including cranes hoists and trolley travel drives, but how do you know when you need new brakes?
Industrial brakes are used even more than standard brakes, and when they go out, it can be a disaster. Don’t miss the early warning signs of brake wear and tear and get them replaced quickly.
Brakes don’t just go out. It can take days or weeks before the brakes fail. When they do fail, it can cause severe injury and death especially if it happens on semis and other large machines such as forklifts and boom hoists.
Early detection and replacement can save you money if only part of the braking system needs to be replaced. Here are seven signs your brakes need replacing.
No Braking Resistance
When you press down on the brake pedal, there should be resistance pushing it back up. It’s why when you take your foot off the brake it returns to the original position. If it doesn’t, it’s likely you have a brake fluid leak somewhere in the braking system.
When using them in for hoists and other machines, the braking should not slip.
Bad brakes are dangerous. You need brake fluid to stop properly and slow down the machine. Without it, the brakes may not work.
Controlled Engagement
Industrial brakes need to be precise, and without that precision, there could be devastating consequences. Industrial brakes on hoists and other motors can cause serious injury if you can’t accurately control the braking. Your industrial brakes need to be replaced.
High Pitched Squeal
The first sign of brake problems people notice is a high-pitched squeal when applying the brakes. It doesn’t have to be loud, and at this stage, it doesn’t impact braking much, but it will over time. It doesn’t matter if the brakes are on a vehicle or something different, it’s still a concern.
If you get your brakes replaced now it might cost less because you may not need calipers, drums and rotors all replaced. If you let it go, the sound will get worse and worse.
Screeching Sound
If you manage to get past the high-pitched squeal, then you move on to the screeching sound. You’ve worn down the brakes to the point that it can severely impact your braking. Replacing your industrial brakes should be a priority.
New Brakes Don’t Run Out of Fluid
If you’re consistently adding brake fluid to the braking system, then something is wrong. Good brakes don’t use up brake fluid quickly. If you must keep adding it, then you’re likely losing it somewhere. This is serious because the brakes are getting the fluid they need and could lead to brake failure.
Brakes Lock
When you put your foot on the brake, it’s supposed to apply pressure and let up when your foot lets up. When the brakes lock, they don’t let up and stay on. If your brakes are locking, then replacement is a must. Locking brakes can cause a serious accident.
When speaking of hoists and other machinery, a sudden lockage can damage nearby machinery and people because you lack control.
Not Braking
The opposite of locking brakes is when they don’t brake at all or only brake lightly. There are many reasons why the brakes may not work, but this is dangerous. You may not be able to stop suddenly or stop for emergencies.
Don’t Risk Brake Wear and Tear
Industrial brakes on vehicles, hoists and other machines are subject to wear and tear just like every other piece of machinery. Keep an eye on them and replace them when needed. If you need more information about industrial brakes, then feel free to explore our website.