Bicycle Mechanics - Cantilever Brake Question

Hi --

I have an older set of Shimano cantilever brakes as pictured below. The part of the brake that contains the spring is plastic and broken -- what is this plastic part called (see part noted by yellow arrow in picture)? Is it possible to obtain a replacement part now and if yes, where? Thanks for any help you can provide.

I had this break and had trouble finding a replacement. so I mended it by coating the outside with epoxy cement, binding it together with sewing thread and puting more epoxy on top. Didnt look pretty but it worked.

Believe it or not, that's a Shimano recall part. Any LBS can get replacements FREE from Shimano.

Believe it or not, that's a Shimano recall part. Any LBS can get replacements FREE from Shimano.

Retro -- do you have a web site link that lists this recalled part? The model number of this brake is BR-CT90-M, and I'm not having success locating the recall notice.

Retro -- do you have a web site link that lists this recalled part? The model number of this brake is BR-CT90-M, and I'm not having success locating the recall notice.

I just called Shimano and according to the individual with whom I spoke these brakes are not under warranty, but it may be possible to get free replacement of the plastic cover from one's local bike shop. My bike shop does have any and I forgot to ask what these things are called. Anyone know -- I'll like to find an on-line retailer who sells these.

Yeah those suck. Couldn't find a replacement. If I remember correctly one spring is stiffer than the other. Alignment becomes impossible without it.I solved the problem by useing a centerpull brake pull thingy.

I realize this is an incredibly old thread, but I have run into this problem as well. Shimano SLR BR-CT90-M cantilever breaks on my old Univega 305. The plastic piece that holds the spring adjustment screw is broken. I have jerry-rigged it with a hose clamp but the alignment is hopelessly off. I'm wondering if I should just bite the bullet and order some new breaks, or if you folk think I'll be able to find a suitable plastic piece for replacement. Thanks!

I realize this is an incredibly old thread, but I have run into this problem as well. Shimano SLR BR-CT90-M cantilever breaks on my old Univega 305. The plastic piece that holds the spring adjustment screw is broken. I have jerry-rigged it with a hose clamp but the alignment is hopelessly off. I'm wondering if I should just bite the bullet and order some new breaks, or if you folk think I'll be able to find a suitable plastic piece for replacement. Thanks!
Replace them with a better canti brake. I keep a few donors and have stripped the cantis off them to replace the cheesy plastic version.

Those plastic housings and spring assembly are $3.00 each at our shop however, I have been told that once ours are gone they are gone. Supposedly they are no longer availible from Shimano. If you do go to a LBS bring the old assembly with you as there were several different varietys.
IMHO... For the price of a new set of canti brakes just get a new set of brakes. You get new pads, new springs and you won't go nuts looking for a part.

I realize this is an incredibly old thread, but I have run into this problem as well. Shimano SLR BR-CT90-M cantilever breaks on my old Univega 305. The plastic piece that holds the spring adjustment screw is broken. I have jerry-rigged it with a hose clamp but the alignment is hopelessly off. I'm wondering if I should just bite the bullet and order some new breaks, or if you folk think I'll be able to find a suitable plastic piece for replacement. Thanks!

When you order, make sure you order brakes and not breaks 'cause if you order breaks you'll get some brakes with a plastic piece that breaks and your brakes will be broken.

IMHO... For the price of a new set of canti brakes just get a new set of brakes. You get new pads, new springs and you won't go nuts looking for a part.

BINGO! Lots easier to adjust too.

I am trying to fix a 1996 Cannondale M200 LE. I took the bike to my local bike repair shop and unfortunately the mechanics told me that they could not repair this bike. The problem is that the rear brake (Shimano SLR BR-CT90-M) set is attached to the bike frame using a post that is screwed into the bike frame and then the brake (arms) itself is screwed to the post by a 5mm allan screw. The bike shop doesn’t have a replacement for the post that attaches the brake to the frame. Cannondale doesn’t have this part anymore because it’s an older bike.

I hope I am describing correctly, could someone tell me where I can find this post, and what type of brake set should I buy to replace the Shimano SLR BR-CT90-M set.

Thank you for your help.

Fabian
Madison, WI

I am trying to fix a 1996 Cannondale M200 LE. I took the bike to my local bike repair shop and unfortunately the mechanics told me that they could not repair this bike. The problem is that the rear brake (Shimano SLR BR-CT90-M) set is attached to the bike frame using a post that is screwed into the bike frame and then the brake (arms) itself is screwed to the post by a 5mm allan screw. The bike shop doesn’t have a replacement for the post that attaches the brake to the frame. Cannondale doesn’t have this part anymore because it’s an older bike.

The threaded canty post that you are describing should be get-able. You might try a supplier like "Loose Screws". Be sure that you examine the part that you remove carefully because there are at least a couple of different sizes.