Which aspect of aircraft brake systems must be maintained to prevent overheating?

Maintaining proper hydraulic fluid levels in an aircraft brake system is crucial for preventing overheating. Hydraulic fluid acts as a medium to transmit force from the brake pedals to the brake components. If the fluid levels are too low, it can lead to air entering the system or insufficient fluid to create the necessary hydraulic pressure, resulting in inefficient braking performance. Inefficient braking can cause the brake components to generate excessive heat due to prolonged contact and friction, which may lead to brake fade or even failure.

In contrast, maintaining consistent tire pressure and carefully adjusting brake lines, while important for overall aircraft performance and safety, do not directly relate to the prevention of brake overheating. Similarly, routine servicing of the shock strut is critical for the overall functioning of the landing gear system but does not specifically address the overheating issue in brake systems. Proper hydraulic fluid levels are essential to ensure that brake components operate effectively within their design limits, thereby minimizing the risk of overheating.