I'm not here just to moan. I like to think that I have a bit more talent than that.

As I'm in the protracted processes of organizing my shop and puttering along with projects, I've reached the point where I'm taking a close look at side-pull brakes, as I'm trying to fit some on one of my projects. In doing so, I'm noticing two things.

1. I have a couple sets of Weinmann calipers (and a set of Universal 68's) that have the ends of their arms severely misaligned when pressed together. I'm not talking about 2-3 mm off, they are between 1-2 centimeters off. This is the case on both the fronts and the rears. As I look closely at them, the issue appears to by with arm that gets pulled by the brake cable. I suspect they may be twisted, but there's also a bit of play in the movement, so I'm wondering if they were taken apart at some point and then re-assembled incorrectly. Is this something that others here have experienced? Was there some remedy (bending, reassembly, etc.), or are they simply toast?

2. If the above-mentioned calipers are now no better than part donors and memorabilia, Is it possible to transplant the mounting bolts from these onto one of my sets of calipers that does have proper alignment, but has recessed bolts?

Hoping that the collective wisdom here can set me straight.

Thanks,

Z