Bicycle Mechanics - sidepull brake spring problem

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orange
08-29-03, 12:23 PM
From Barnett's, ch. 36 - 44:

"SYMPTOM: Sidepull caliper will not hold its center adjustment.

"...Spring not fixed securely in slot in spring-mounting plate. Peen down slot in spring-mounting plate to eliminate play between spring and spring-mounting plate."

The slot in my spring-mounting plate is wide enough for the spring (and the whole brake basically) to rotate maybe 15 degrees even when secured with the locknut.

I've never peened anything, and frankly I can't picture how I would narrow this slot. :confused: Can anybody help me out?

The brake is cheap enough that it would probably be more cost-effective to replace it than to have a pro work on it.

Thanks!

Rev.Chuck
08-29-03, 08:13 PM
If the slot is that loose, just go get a new, cheap side pull. You can pick one up for $15. If the caliper has good spring just tap the spring with a hammer and chisel to get it centered. (there is a tool for this if you feel the need to buy one) Also, nicer brakes have flats that you can use a 90 degree cone wrench to center the brake.
mike
08-30-03, 03:24 AM
Originally posted by Rev.Chuck
If the slot is that loose, just go get a new, cheap side pull. You can pick one up for $15. If the caliper has good spring just tap the spring with a hammer and chisel to get it centered. (there is a tool for this if you feel the need to buy one) Also, nicer brakes have flats that you can use a 90 degree cone wrench to center the brake.

This is probably the best advice. Once a brake starts to get sticky or loopy, it is hard to make it right. If you want to avoid the $15.00, keep your eyes on bikes that have been thrown out and cannibalize the brakes from it. It is great to recycle brakes and other parts.

That said, another workable solution is to go to the hardware store and get a star-shaped locking washer for about $0.25

The washer goes between the fork and the brake housing. It prevents the brake from moving from side to side.

Of course, make sure that the brake is tightened to the fork via the bolt on the BACKSIDE of the fork - opposite the brake itself.