mijome07

I installed new v-brakes (Tektro M530's) today w/ new cable/housing on new hand-built wheels. Wheels are true as can be and the bike is a 90's TREK MTB. Frame/fork is not bent or damaged.

Now, installing the front was easy with good modulation. I'm using some Cane Creek Drop V levers. I bought these new and they work just fine.

I had problem with the rear brake. Set it up as I did with the front and the pads were right on the rim. I did have to trim some excess housing which helped a bit.

I ended up flipping the order of washers on the pads from the standard (?) pad->thick washer->thin washer to the other way around. I was then able to set up the brakes and had more or less even modulation with both levers.

Is this common to switch the washer order on the front or rear? I did make small adjustments with the spring tension. All brake arms are even/straight up when engaged.

And the brake studs/mounts on the frame/fork were greased prior to installation.

Is there something I'm missing?

dabac

What's the problem?

Flipping the washer sequence around on the studs on the brake pads is common enough to deal with differences in the width between the brake bosses, and/or differences in rim width.

maddog34

yep, I do this whenever it's needed. The biggest thing to make sure is correct is the pad angle when it contacts the rim...
TIP: if your new brakes squeal when engaged, change the pad contact so that the leading edge of the pad hits the rim first... no more squeals!

JonathanGennick 

Yes, no issues with flipping around those washers. They are made different sizes for just that purpose.

mijome07

Thanks guys. So I wasn't missing anything. I also made this thread for anyone searching.