Originally Posted by Turtle Speed

Thanks for the replies and links, very helpful.

I'm having mixed results so far. The back brakes seem to be somewhat improved. They feel decently responsive now, and I can actually get the wheel to lock if I brake hard enough.

The front brakes are another story. I try to make sure I'm getting good, solid pad contact, but they just feel weak, even weaker than the back brakes. That surprised me, because I thought the front brakes were supposed to have more stopping power when properly set up. Am I doing something wrong with my adjustments? Shouldn't I expect to be able to get the front brakes stronger than the back ones if I've properly set this up, even with my crummy equipment?

Random other issue, I'm having trouble getting the brake pads tightened into place where I want them. My method is to start with them somewhat snug but slightly movable, close the brakes, wiggle them into position, and then tighten the pad. Problem is, when I go to tighten and the torque resistance starts ramping up, turning my allen wrench tends to make the whole pad tilt. So it's hard to get the pad to stick perfectly in place while I'm tightening with the allen wrench AND one hand is already tied down in clamping down on the brake as hard as I can. Any tips would be super appreciated.