What is a critical component to check during brake troubleshooting?

Brake pressure is a critical component to check during brake troubleshooting because it directly affects the braking performance of the train. The brake pressure must be within specific ranges to ensure that the air brakes function effectively. If the pressure is too low, the brakes may not apply sufficient force to stop the train, potentially leading to safety hazards. Conversely, if the pressure is too high, it can cause the brakes to engage too forcefully, resulting in excessive wear or damage to the brake components.

Monitoring brake pressure helps maintain the overall safety and functionality of the air brake system. It ensures that the brakes can respond appropriately to the engineer's commands, providing a safe and controlled stopping mechanism for the train. Therefore, checking the brake pressure is a fundamental step in troubleshooting any issues related to the braking system, ensuring the train operates within safe parameters.