brake problem...feel squishy cable stretch maybe...? 
#1 2012-11-03 12:14pm
- bdrainy
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- From: Roseville, CA
- Registered: 2012-09-17
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brake problem...feel squishy cable stretch maybe...?
I just got a re manufactured Dia Compe MX-1000 for the rear of my 85 M1. I installed new tech 3 levers and new cable/sleeve since my bike was missing the entire rear set up. I got it all installed and functioning but I cant lock up that rear brake.
The lever almost feels soft. It slows the bike down and will stop it at a distance but wont lock that wheel while im riding. I can squeeze the lever almost to the point of hitting the grip. I have the pads adjusted pretty close to the wheel and its making good contact. I adjusted them about 5 times because i kept thinking it was an adjustment problem...but i dont think that is the case any longer.
Looking for some suggestions. How to I deal with cable stretch? Or is this just a new pad situation where they need to break in a bit? thanks for any help! - Brian
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#2 2012-11-03 12:44pm
- XJguy
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Re: brake problem...feel squishy cable stretch maybe...?
What kind of cable? rim? pad? Any detangler?
WTB Forklifter freestyle bars.
WTB Peregrine Super Pros
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#3 2012-11-03 12:57pm
- bdrainy
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- From: Roseville, CA
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Re: brake problem...feel squishy cable stretch maybe...?
I bought the brake cable kit as a package. The cable is 1.6mm X 1700mm. Not sure on the pad type...they came with the caliper. Here is caliper I purchased.
http://www.porkchopbmx.com/Dia-Compe-MX … S5001T.htm
The rims are old school Araya's and there is no detangler. Thanks for any suggestions! - Brian
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#4 2012-11-03 3:27pm
- XJguy
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Re: brake problem...feel squishy cable stretch maybe...?
The pads are probably not helping. Some better cables come pre-stretched. OEMs usually do not. I would snug the cable as tight as you can and squeeze that lever as hard as you can hold and repeat several times...that will help stretch it out, then adjust accordingly. The rims are shiny side?
WTB Forklifter freestyle bars.
WTB Peregrine Super Pros
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#5 2012-11-04 7:36am
- bdrainy
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- From: Roseville, CA
- Registered: 2012-09-17
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Re: brake problem...feel squishy cable stretch maybe...?
I'll give it a try. Thanks!
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#6 2012-11-04 7:59am
- KuWa FS
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Re: brake problem...feel squishy cable stretch maybe...?
Get a linear cable. they make a huge difference.
Cream on the inside
Clean on the outside
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#7 2012-11-04 8:05am
- unfit4society
- Pro Memberbeehive neck
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Re: brake problem...feel squishy cable stretch maybe...?
make sure you have metal ends (ferrels) onboth ends of the cable after you cut it to length, if you don't you will never lose the spongy feeling.
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