Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 457
Likes: 0
From: Chapel Hill
Bikes: Canfield Yelli Screamy, Pivot Mach5, Specialized Roubaix, '65 Hercules, '79 Schwinn Stingray Lil Chic, '68 Schwinn Stingray Fastback, '89 Specialized Allez Epic, '86 Battaglin World Champion
What kind of fluid did you use in the brakes and what type is supposed to be used? Using the wrong fluid can cause the seals to swell which can lead to leaking.
It sounds like the best option would be to find a suitable replacement. Considering that it doesn't sound like you do a whole lot of mtb'ing, a cable brake system may be suitable(either disc or v-brake).