Loader Loader Failure

[seacap04]

CM, my thoughts entirely.

 

[ritcheyvs]

Is there anything the user could have done to weaken the joint? ....

Maybe, but the hydraulic relief valves should have prevented that. Also, the initial photos look like incomplete or bad (no penetration) welding.

 

[seacap04]

My tractor earns money. I have bent curl brackets, ripped feet of from snow plow, and moved things this tractor has no business moving. Believe me bad welds.

 

[Coyote machine]

My tractor earns money. I have bent curl brackets, ripped feet of from snow plow, and moved things this tractor has no business moving. Believe me bad welds.

Ditto the above- the DK-40 with KL-401 loader is phenomenal at lifting. The only way the OP's outcome happened is defective materials/workmanship, ( read: amateur hour welding). Otherwise, a failed relief valve, as ritcheyvs mentioned. Less likely, IMHO.
Either way, it's Kioti's responsibility to fix, without inconvenience/expense to the OP.

 

[CJONE]

A contractor I know only uses CAT equipment... had a skid-steer almost out of warranty that had a problem.

Dealer dropped off a free loaner and covered transportation.

And that is why you pay a premium for Cat equipment along with the build quality. CJ