Originally Posted by
Retro Grouch
Yeah, different styles of brakes require totally different solutions.
I have a hunch (simply because it's so common) the OP has those old Shimano canty's that have the plastic cup that holds the return spring. When that cup cracks the pad won't spring back. When that happens the "A" answer is new brakes. The quick, dirty solution is to wrap a piece of wire around the cracked spring retainer cup.
Hey Retro Grouch,
I might have this same problem. I have an early-mid 90's specialized hard rock with the stock shimano brakes. When I pulled it out to ride I heard one of the pads dragging. On inspection I saw that a plastic piece covering a spring was busted. I have pretty pictures:
Does that look like what you were talking about? If so, how feasible is your quick & dirty solution since mine isn't just cracked, but half missing? Or do I need to go directly to new brakes?
Laura