Why the Bucket and Tilt Drop in Skid Steer Loaders and How to Fix It

[MikePhua]

Skid steer loaders are versatile and widely used for a range of construction, landscaping, and agricultural tasks. One of their key features is the ability to manipulate attachments like buckets and tilting mechanisms with ease. However, a common issue that many operators face is the bucket and tilt falling unexpectedly, even when the joystick is not in use. This issue can be both frustrating and dangerous, especially if the equipment is operating near other machinery or workers. This article explores the potential causes of this problem, offers troubleshooting steps, and provides solutions to fix the issue.
Understanding the Skid Steer Hydraulic System
To understand why the bucket and tilt might fall unexpectedly, it's important to first comprehend the hydraulic system that operates these functions. The skid steer’s hydraulic system is responsible for powering attachments, controlling the lift arms, and controlling the bucket tilt. A series of hydraulic cylinders, valves, hoses, and a pump are involved in moving and controlling these components. The joystick or lever system is used to send signals to the hydraulic valves, directing the flow of hydraulic fluid to the cylinders. If any component in this system malfunctions, the result can be erratic or unpredictable movements of the attachments, including the bucket and tilt.
Common Causes of Falling Bucket and Tilt Issues

1. Hydraulic Cylinder Seal Failure
   Hydraulic cylinders are designed to maintain pressure and hold the attachment in place. However, over time, the seals within the cylinder can degrade, allowing hydraulic fluid to leak past them. This loss of pressure can cause the bucket and tilt to fall unexpectedly. The seals can wear due to excessive use, exposure to extreme temperatures, or contamination in the hydraulic fluid.
   Symptoms of hydraulic cylinder seal failure:
   • The bucket or tilt drops slowly or suddenly after reaching a certain height.
     
   • Visible hydraulic fluid leakage near the cylinder.
     
   • Jerky or uneven movement of the bucket and tilt.
     
   Solution:
   • Inspect the hydraulic cylinders for any signs of leaks or damage.
     
   • If the seals are worn or damaged, replace them with new seals that meet the manufacturer’s specifications.
     
   • Check for debris or contaminants in the hydraulic fluid and replace it if necessary.
     
2. Faulty Hydraulic Valves
   Hydraulic valves control the direction and flow of hydraulic fluid to the cylinders. If the valve that controls the bucket and tilt functions is malfunctioning, it may cause the attachments to drift or fall when they shouldn’t. The issue may be caused by dirt or debris in the valve, a stuck spool, or internal wear and tear.
   Symptoms of faulty hydraulic valves:
   • The bucket or tilt fails to hold its position.
     
   • Slow or erratic movement of the bucket and tilt.
     
   • Hissing noises coming from the valve area.
     
   Solution:
   • Inspect the hydraulic valves for any visible damage or blockages.
     
   • Clean or replace the valves as needed.
     
   • Lubricate the valve components to ensure smooth operation.
     
3. Hydraulic Fluid Leaks
   Leaks in the hydraulic system can lead to a drop in pressure, causing the bucket and tilt to fall. These leaks may occur in hoses, connectors, or fittings that are damaged or improperly tightened. Even small leaks can cause a gradual loss of hydraulic pressure, which, over time, can lead to issues with attachment control.
   Symptoms of hydraulic fluid leaks:
   • Low hydraulic fluid levels in the reservoir.
     
   • Fluid stains or puddles under the machine.
     
   • Slow or sluggish operation of the bucket and tilt.
     
   Solution:
   • Inspect all hoses, fittings, and connectors for signs of leaks or wear.
     
   • Tighten any loose fittings or replace any damaged hoses.
     
   • Check and maintain the appropriate fluid levels and top up with the recommended hydraulic fluid.
     
4. Faulty Joystick or Control Lever
   The joystick or control lever sends signals to the hydraulic system to control the movement of the bucket and tilt. If the joystick or lever becomes worn, damaged, or misaligned, it may send incorrect signals, causing the bucket and tilt to fall unexpectedly.
   Symptoms of joystick or control lever failure:
   • Unresponsive or sticky joystick movement.
     
   • The bucket or tilt moves without operator input.
     
   • Difficulty controlling the attachments.
     
   Solution:
   • Inspect the joystick or control lever for any physical damage or wear.
     
   • Check the wiring and connections between the joystick and hydraulic control system.
     
   • If the joystick is malfunctioning, replace or repair it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
     
5. Improper Hydraulic Pressure Settings
   Skid steer loaders are equipped with pressure regulators and relief valves to maintain the correct hydraulic pressure for various functions. If the pressure settings are incorrect, it can lead to improper operation of the bucket and tilt. For example, low pressure can result in the attachments falling or failing to hold their position.
   Symptoms of incorrect hydraulic pressure:
   • The bucket and tilt fail to hold their position when raised.
     
   • The attachments drift or fall after being positioned.
     
   • The machine feels underpowered during operation.
     
   Solution:
   • Check the hydraulic pressure using a gauge to ensure it is within the manufacturer’s recommended range.
     
   • Adjust the pressure settings if necessary, or replace any faulty pressure relief valves or regulators.
     
6. Damaged or Worn Out Lift Arm Components
   The lift arms are responsible for raising and lowering the bucket, and if any components of the lift arm system are damaged or worn, they can cause instability, including the uncontrolled fall of the bucket and tilt. Worn bushings, cracked arms, or misaligned components can all contribute to these issues.
   Symptoms of lift arm issues:
   • Unstable or uneven movement of the bucket.
     
   • Misalignment between the bucket and the machine.
     
   • Unusual noise from the lift arm area.
     
   Solution:
   • Inspect the lift arms and associated components for signs of wear, cracks, or misalignment.
     
   • Replace any worn or damaged components, including bushings and pins.
     
   • Lubricate moving parts to ensure smooth operation.
     

Preventive Maintenance to Avoid Falling Bucket and Tilt Issues
To prevent future issues with the bucket and tilt dropping unexpectedly, it’s crucial to perform regular maintenance on your skid steer loader. Here are some preventive measures:

1. Regular Hydraulic System Checks: Periodically inspect the hydraulic system for leaks, damage, or contamination. Replace filters and fluid according to the manufacturer’s schedule to ensure optimal performance.
   
2. Lubrication: Regularly lubricate moving parts, including the lift arms, bucket pins, and joystick components, to reduce wear and tear. Proper lubrication can extend the lifespan of components and prevent mechanical failures.
   
3. Hydraulic Fluid Maintenance: Maintain the correct fluid levels and quality in the hydraulic system. Contaminated or low-quality hydraulic fluid can cause numerous issues, including erratic movement and system failures.
   
4. Inspect Attachments and Control Systems: Regularly inspect the bucket, tilt, and lift arm components for wear. Ensure that control levers or joysticks are functioning correctly and respond smoothly.
   

Conclusion
The issue of a falling bucket and tilt in a skid steer loader is a common but manageable problem. By understanding the various causes—from hydraulic cylinder failures to faulty control systems—operators can take the necessary steps to diagnose and fix the problem. Regular maintenance and proactive troubleshooting can help prevent these issues from recurring, ensuring that the machine operates efficiently and safely. Whether the problem is minor, like a hydraulic leak, or more complex, like a faulty joystick, addressing the issue quickly will prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of the skid steer loader.