[CR]Re: Universal brake questions

(Example: Production Builders:Teledyne)

From: <CYDYN@aol.com>
Date: Tue, 16 Dec 2003 00:12:03 EST
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR]Re: Universal brake questions

Hi Jan,

While I don't recommend "cold setting Universal brakes, I've had a lot of success doing it by using a piezo start MAPP gas or Propane handheld torch.Heating the aluminum anneals or softens the metal, and they'll bend easily with little fear of snapping. As someone else mentioned, often the culprit is an oversized brake hole. An easy fix is to fill it with JB weld, let it cure, then re drill the hole at the appropriate angle. This extra support for the center bolt is often all that's needed to keep the alloy half washers from rotating under braking loads. It also provides extra support for the cross bridge to prevent it from crushing while tighteneing the fixing nut. Best yet, it's an invisible repair that doesn't affect the paint and doesn't require brazing. I think I have a spare Universal nut if you still need one.

Paul Brown
Cycle Dynamics
Santa Rosa, CA