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    Is this happening because of the brake arms or because the cable is getting caught somewhere?

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    10 Comments

    1. SitePsychological391 on

      Cable needs lubrication. Brakes need their springs balanced. Source: LBS mechanic with 30 years experience 

    2. A_PCMR_member on

      You have mechanical rim brakes (V-brakes IIRC)

      -They rotate on a pivot that may need some grease

      -They have a return spring that may be fatigued

      -Cable may be corroded/worn and needs replacement/relubrication

      [https://youtu.be/XMa9UqY9obk](https://youtu.be/XMa9UqY9obk)

    3. kerit on

      It could be sticky cables in housing, or it could be weak brake return springs. The springs are usually adjustable.

      Lube the cable as the first step. If that doesn’t fix it, make sure the brake pivots are clean and lubed, and consider increasing the spring tension.

    4. SnollyG on

      Could be either.

      The bushings for the brake arms can get cruddy, so it can help to clean that out. Just be careful when removing and installing the arms. The tolerances are quite tight.

    5. Prestigious-Fig-5513 on

      Find where the cable is sticking. For lube, use a dry Teflon (ptfe) spray product like blaster dry lube to spray out the housings. Do not use grease or oil as they will become gummy in time.

      Adjust the screws at the caliper to add spring tension.

    6. Gen-Y-ine-86 on

      Get rid of those brakes asap and replace them with just about anything. I’ve read about these flimsy pressed sheet metal things and they can bend or even snap under heavy braking. AFAIK, there have been cases of unexpected brake failure. Also there is a possibility that when they start to bend, the brake shoes can jam the tire altogether.

    7. Nervous-Rush-4465 on

      Anything is possible. Make sure the cable is unobstructed and moves freely through the housing. Then, verify that each brakearm rotates without drag on the pivot. Finally, check the tension springs on each arm. If they pull unevenly, that is why the brake doesn’t retract properly.

    9. Apis_ on

      We’re 100% certain the pads aren’t making contact with the underside of the tire when the brakes are fully compressed?

      I’d just check that off the list first.

    10. BadFeisty6728 on

      Your cables, most likely need to be lubed especially the noodle on the brake itself. Best of luck to you.

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