Understanding the Parking Brake System on the Gehl SL5625 Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

The Gehl SL5625 and Its Compact Workhorse Reputation
The Gehl SL5625 skid steer loader was part of Gehl’s mid-1990s to early-2000s compact equipment lineup, designed for versatility in construction, landscaping, and agricultural tasks. With a rated operating capacity of around 1,750 pounds and powered by a robust diesel engine, the SL5625 offered hydrostatic drive, mechanical simplicity, and a rugged frame. Gehl, founded in 1859 and headquartered in Wisconsin, built its reputation on durable, operator-friendly machines, and the SL5625 was no exception.
One of the more overlooked systems in this model is the mechanical parking brake—a cable-actuated caliper setup that, while simple in design, can be confusing to troubleshoot or adjust without a service manual.
Terminology Annotation

• Parking Brake: A manually actuated system that locks the wheels or drive system to prevent unintended movement when the machine is stationary.
  
• Caliper: A clamp-like device that squeezes brake pads against a rotor to create friction and stop motion.
  
• Brake Cable: A steel cable that transmits force from the hand lever to the brake caliper.
  
• Adjustment Screw: A threaded mechanism on the caliper that sets pad clearance and engagement force.
  

How the Brake System Functions
The SL5625 uses a mechanical hand brake lever located in the cab, connected via dual cables to calipers mounted near the drive hubs. When the operator pulls the lever, tension is applied to the cables, which in turn pull the caliper arms, forcing the brake pads to clamp onto the rotor. This friction locks the wheels and prevents movement.
Unlike hydraulic braking systems, this setup relies entirely on mechanical leverage. There is no fluid pressure, no master cylinder, and no booster. The simplicity makes it reliable, but also means wear and cable stretch can degrade performance over time.
Common Issues and Symptoms
Operators may encounter:

• Brake lever feels loose or has excessive travel.
  
• Machine rolls slightly even with brake engaged.
  
• Uneven braking between left and right sides.
  
• Pads fail to contact rotor fully.
  

These symptoms often stem from:

• Cable stretch or fraying.
  
• Pad wear or glazing.
  
• Caliper misalignment.
  
• Improper adjustment of the caliper screw.
  

In one case from a Pennsylvania contractor, the SL5625 began creeping on slopes despite the brake being engaged. Inspection revealed that the left-side cable had stretched nearly 10 mm beyond spec, causing uneven pad contact. Replacing the cable and resetting the caliper screw resolved the issue.
Adjustment Procedure and Tips
To restore proper brake function:

• Locate the adjustment screw on each caliper—usually a hex bolt with a lock nut.
  
• With the brake lever released, turn the screw clockwise until the pads lightly touch the rotor.
  
• Back off slightly to prevent drag during normal operation.
  
• Engage the brake lever and verify full pad contact.
  
• Adjust cable tension using inline adjusters or clevis pins if available.
  

Always adjust both sides evenly to prevent yaw or uneven braking. Use a feeler gauge to check pad clearance—typically 0.5–1.0 mm when disengaged.
Preventive Maintenance and Component Care
To keep the system reliable:

• Lubricate cable ends and pivot points monthly.
  
• Inspect caliper bolts and mounting brackets for looseness.
  
• Replace pads every 1,000 hours or when thickness drops below 3 mm.
  
• Check cable sheath for cracks or kinks.
  

Avoid using penetrating oil on the rotor or pads—it reduces friction and compromises braking. If contamination occurs, clean with brake cleaner and scuff pads with emery cloth.
Recommendations for Technicians and Owners

• Keep spare cables and pads in stock—these wear faster than hydraulic components.
  
• Document brake adjustments and pad replacements in service logs.
  
• Train operators to test brake function before loading or transport.
  
• Consider upgrading to aftermarket calipers with easier adjustment mechanisms if available.
  

Closing Reflections
The parking brake on the Gehl SL5625 may be mechanically simple, but its role in safety and control is critical. Understanding how the cables, calipers, and adjustment screws interact allows operators and technicians to maintain reliable stopping power. Whether parked on a slope or idling in a tight jobsite, a properly functioning brake system ensures the machine stays where it should—secure, stable, and ready for work.