Brake help
 

I purchased a used SS, and the brakes are blah. They are old Dia Compes. I am going to toss teh rear, but I want a front because I feel more comfortable with it due to my style of riding.

I want to replace the Dia Compe, but I am having a problem.

I have a Shimano 600 single pivot I want to use, and although it is not the greatest brake, it is better than the DC.

The problem I run into is that the hole on the fork for mounting the caliper is only big enough for the screw on the DC brake to come through (the bold threads onto the screw on the rear of the fork). The 600 brake uses a "barrel bolt" (I don't know the exact term) that threads inside the fork normally.

Do I have any options other than drilling out the hole in the fork until it is big enough to use the bolt that comes with the 600 brake?

BTW, the frame and fork are a mid 80s Kuwahara.

First off, go here: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/gloss_ra-e.html and scroll down to Sheldon's thingee about recessed brakes.

Second, consider using Kool-Stop Continental brake pads. I changed over to them and they make my Dia-Comps usable.

Drill out the rear (ONLY the rear) of the fork crown with a 5/16" or 8mm drill bit. The recessed enongated allen nut will fit perfectly. BTW, these nuts are available in several lengths if you have a fork with an odd crown thickness.

I second trying the Kool Stop brake shoes before giving up on the Dia Compes. Good brake shoes can make a world of difference in brake performance.