Philcycle

Hey guys, I just got a new set of pads to replace the stock ones in my Tektro's. I replaced them with Kool Stop standard blacks, but the new pads are hitting in the rear of the pad first, the part they claim cleans the rim of water, mud, etc. Shouldn't the front of the pad be toed in? The stock holders don't have angled washers to correct this - should I invest in a couple, or should I let the pads wear in for a while, then see what they look like? Thanks in advance!

HillRider

Unless the pads squeal when you apply the brakes, just use them as is. The "rim rake" will wear away soon enough. I installed Kool Stop pads in Nashbar brake pad holders (made by Tektro and the same as yours) and I didn't have to worry about the toe-in as they are quiet and stop the bike well.

well biked

I usually toe mine in a bit, it helps reduce brake squeal. I think the diagram on the back of the Kool Stop package shows the front and back hitting the rim simultaneously (which makes sense if you think about the rear "plow" and how it's supposed to work). But I think having the rear of the pad hit first is going to cause brake squeal and maybe some noticeable vibration-

kandnhome

If your Tektro's are like mine, they have a series of domed washers on the post that holds the pad. These washers can be angled to adjust the angle at which the pad contacts the rim. You just have to loosen the bolt and tweak the fit, then hold it there as you tighten it back up.

If they're not like mine, then they will probably wear in soon enough. No biggie either way, as long as they don't squeal.

onbike 1939

^^^^ +1 but a good tip is to fix a rubber band around the rear of the pad, slacken off the bolt and then , with the blocks aligned, pull the brake on. The pad will now adopt the toeing in position and all you have to do is tighten, still with the brake on.

JustBrowsing

Don't forget to remove the rubber band when you're done tightening the bolt.