Can't get the bloody brakes working - help!

I would also suggest those teflon coated cables and cases which helped me out no end to get a better return on the brake. Although I am not sure you can get them for road brakes.

yeah but that'll cost more than the callipers and lever are worth (or would cost to replace) - so would suggest this only if the callipers are welded to the frame. And no amount adjustment / improving cables is going to salvage such terrible callipers.

bending the springs is a good idea, or take the wheel out before you set them up. But personally I'd replace them <£20 from ebay. They're brakes, after all (I'm assuming you're not also taking out a million 3 insurance policy on her) Only problem is that most callipers on ebay have the recessed allen key fitting, not the nut at the back as I suspect these have.