Linear Pull V-brake Problem
 

Hello,

This is probably a simple problem to solve, but I couldn't seem to find anything searching.

I adjusted my direct pull v-brakes awhile ago, but they've began to malfunction recently.

When I try to use my front brakes, the noodle tends to pop out of the arm that's holding it, making the brakes worthless. It also tends to pop out when just riding down the street.

What exactly is the problem? Is the cable too tight? I can't loosen it anymore, as it would take too much pressure to use the brakes. Thanks for the help!

Sounds like you don't have enough return spring tension.

Bending the V brake return spring is an easy way to make the spring tension stronger..

Look at the arm holding the noodle in place. Is it deformed? On the cheaper brakes this arm is often a soft easily bent piece and results in a completely useless brake once the noodle pops out. They can usually be bent back into shape.

Otherwise, it could be a sticking cable or an issue of not enough spring tension.

Cable too long or possibly spring tension as others have indicated. My TRP CX9s haven't had this problem. It is more of a challenge getting the cable adjusted so I can still disconnect the cable from the bracket by backing off the noodle.

Tht sounds like a possibility and it's not necessary to bend the return springs. Most V-brakes have a spring tension adjustment screw on each arm. Thread it in a turn or so and see if that solves the problem. The other major possibility is frayed or dirty cables and/or housing.

In my experience a cable sticking in the housing will cause the housing to pop out of the lever, rather than the brake.

There are two possibilities I can think of - a cable problem, or (as mentioned above) the hinged arm on the brake where the noodle plugs in is damaged and allowing the noodle to pop out. I think it is more likely to be the second one - a lot of brakes and setups make it very difficult for the noodle to pop out intentionally, so it happening accidentally is unlikely with an undamaged hinged arm. Can you post a photo?