Originally Posted by
FBinNY
The post separation/strike angle issue is different and unrelated to the spring issue.
My advice, is to put these out on ebay, and go to a local co-op (if there is one) and let them deal with all the issues and help you select and install an appropriate brake.
With these particular brakes, the issue seems to be that the brake shoes are hitting the frame too soon and in this case disallowing the brake arm to pull back enough to find tension. I'm sure that's not the case with all similar issues, but it seems to be for these brakes.
I'm always driven to do everything myself until I've exhausted every angle that I'm aware of (aka, stubborn), but will definitely take them to a nearby co-op (chicago) to give me a hand if needed.