Front brake caliper arms slipping

My front brake caliper arm wont stop slipping to one side so that the right hand pad is frequently touching the rim after I've used the brake and I can't get it to stay centered. I keep checking that the alum key bolt that attaches it to the fork mount is tight and it seems fine. Any suggestions?

(Apart from 'go brakeless' please)

Campagnolo Serrated Washer or something similar.

They grip the fork and caliper and prevent slipping once tightened.

That's perfect. Anyone know of any retailers in the uk?

dual pivot brakes

FTW

+1 none of this 1980's weinmann bollocks

last caress cut a half inch square of innertube and put it between brake and frame,it worked for me

Is it one of the arms, or both that keep moving to the side?

If its both then first check that the brake cable isnt pushing it to the side, you may need to re-route or use a longer cable. If its not the cable, pursue getting one of those washers as recommended above.

If it is just one arm, then it means your brake is a bit stiff. Take it apart, use some emery paper to shine up the brake spindle, clean, put some grease on it, and re-assemble.

You brake should then be friction-free, and spring back easily (as long as nothing else is restricting it)

Oh, and I find that those old weinmann brakes work superbly, especially on a set of modern machined rims. They are often just neglected and need a service.

That's perfect. Anyone know of any retailers in the uk?

If last_caress or any other foremenger needs genuine Campy Serrated Washers here's a good eBay source: carltoncycles http://myworld.ebay.co.uk/carltoncycles

They don't have any listed on eBay at the moment but an email received today confirms there are plenty still available.

See a recent listing here.

£2.25 for two (2) washers is a fantastic deal. Last year I paid $25 for 2 shipped from the States.

If interested, email them at Carltonflyer@aol.com or send an eBay message.

Note that they spell serrated with a C

Are you using side pull caliper brakes? dual pivots are better.

You might want to have a look at the springs and they way they're seated, the grooved holder for it might be a bit off centre. Also if they've got a bit warped you can encourage the springs to sit in the right spot by tapping against them (not the calipers, just the springy wire) with a hammer and screwdriver.

Don't listen to the haters. Though duals work lovely if using an old brake isn't important to you.