I would advise ditching that link wire setup and using a straddle cable instead. I use the Problem Solvers Wide Cable Carrier https://problemsolversbike.com/produ...arrier_-_16460 with similar Tektro CR-720 brakes and they work great. You will need to provide something to catch the cable if the main brake cable breaks or comes loose, lest it foul the tire; a reflector bracket or even a loop of twine will work. I second the suggestion to replace the pads; Kool-Stop Salmon compound pads are frequently recommended. I