Originally Posted by dddd

just because the ano layer is worn off doesn't mean the rims are "weak".

I've continued using such rims for years, i looked forward to the loss of the ano layer on the brake tracks!

The brake pulsation might just be the way the connecting sleeve is pressed into the ends of the rim, very normal for araya and ukai dbl-walled rims of this era.

Perhaps new pads have suddenly exacerbated the pulsation issue which is due to the rim's variation of thickness(?).