Amir,
They should work better than you describe. Before giving up, try sanding the old surface off the current pads--the best tool for this is a bench grinder, but you can also use a file or wrap coarse sandpaper around a file or block of wood. The rubber dries out to the point where it won't grip. Also, check the toe-in. Make sure the pads are engaging the rim in a useful way. Poor angle of approach, misalignment, etc., could cause the problem.
For myself, I try to keep a stock of pads for my favorite old brakes. You might be able to find old stock Campy pads or the Matthauser (red) replacement pads that were popular for years--these were available both as shoe with pad or just plain pads. You'll probably have to sand either of these, too, since they'll be old.
Bob Schenker Oakland, CA, USA
> My mystery Italian bike has Campy Gran Sport brakes (levers and
> calipers).
>
> With original Campy brake pads, the brakes barely slow down the bike.
>
> With Cool Stop brake pads, the bike can be stopped, but not in
> emergencies.
>
> Any brake pad recommendations?
> Modern pads would do ... I'm more concerned about life and limb
> than about
> classic content ...
> although I'd prefer to keep the brakes and make them work.
>
> Amir Avitzur
> Ramat-Gan, Israel