Do you own a bicycle that has hand-operated brakes? Are those caliper brakes in working order? If not, you may need to make a few basic adjustments to get them working properly again. Based on my experience, some of those adjustments may be completed at home. Here’s how to do it:
Supplies Needed
In order to complete the adjustments, you will need a set of screwdrivers, a set of adjustable wrenches, a rubber mallet, a C-clamp and a pair of pliers. Of course you’ll also need a bicycle repair stand or a willing assistant to help you. In addition, I’d suggest having a can of dry spray lubricant, light machine oil and a container of water resistant bike grease on hand. That way, you can grease and lubricate any bicycle parts that may need it along the way. If you don’t have those tools on hand, they are generally available for purchase through most bicycle related retailers and hardware stores.
Check the Caliper Arms
Start by examining the bicycle’s brake pads and levers. Ideally, the brake pads should be aligned with the bicycle’s rims and clear them when the hand levers are in the open position. If this is not the case, you’ll want to use your adjustable wrenches to loosen the nuts that keep the brake pads inside the caliper arms. Once that is done, reposition the brake pads until they are in proper alignment. Then retighten the nuts.
Check the Spacing
Next, use your hands to squeeze the brake pads shut. Then turn your attention towards the anchor nut and adjuster screw. I have found that if you turn the screw clockwise, it will cause the space between the brake pads and the bike’s rim to increase. If you turn the screw counter clockwise, it will have the opposite effect. With that said, adjust the screw accordingly and then retest your bicycle’s brakes.
Check the Cables, Bolts and Yolk
If your bicycle’s brake pads and levers are still not working properly, you’ll want to examine the brake cables. The cables should be tight. When they are slack, they can cause brake problems too. As such, you’ll want to press the brake pads shut and secure them into place with a C-clamp. Next, pull up on the cable to reduce the slack and then retighten the anchor nut. Afterward, remove the C-clamp. Then reexamine the bike’s brake pads and levers. Hopefully, they’ll once again be in working order. Should you still have alignment problems, you may also need to adjust the brake assembly’s pivot bolts, springs and yolk. If completing those final tasks doesn’t solve your bike’s brake problems, I’d recommend taking it to a professional.
Source: Personal Experience
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