Originally Posted by
FBinNY
If "bracket" means sprocket cassette or the ratchet mechanism inside, then "loosening" may or may not be appropriate. It's probably sticky with dried grease, not actually tight. So the answer isn't to loosen it but to add some oil to make it run more freely or "looser".
How to add the oil varies slightly with the type of hub. If you bought the wheel locally, let the seller fix this for you, or seek out a bike co-op, or a knowledgeable friend for help. (if you put where you live into your profile, someone might point you to a local resource).
Ok, thanks! Turns out this was in fact the problems I had. Runs smoothly now. But I think in the process I kinda messed up my breaks as well for whatever reason too. They dont seem aligned straight. Is there a way to adjust that? And no, I dont have any broken or loose spokes on that end.