Help with replacing spring on cantilever brake

[buzz]

[attachment=4286][attachment=4286]First off, 2009 Specialized Tri-cross sport. I did buy used and not sure if the brakes on the front or rear were replaced since they look different.

Here is the situation: I was commuting to work and when taking off after a stop light, I noticed it was hard to pedal and heard a noise and realized my rear brake was really rubbing. I took a long look and finally realized the spring that returns the brake broke.

I stopped at the bike coop yesterday and found a few springs that look like they could do the trick to fix it.

I just removed the brake from the post and now cannot figure out how to get the part with the spring apart. Anybody have a clue? Attached is a picture and any help would be appreciate.

[DaveM]

I can't tell either from those pictures, but a little general advice...
Trying to replace springs in cantilevers is very difficult. There are a lot of slightly different spring shapes and you can rarely get a new spring to work unless it is exactly the same as the old one. Next, very important that the springs match on each side or you'll never get the brakes centered.

I'm not saying you won't be able to get these working, but just a warning that it may not be easy.

Sadly, often the best thing to do is just to buy a new brake set. They aren't very expensive and you get nice fresh pads for your trouble. Avid has some good aftermarket brakes, but others may have other recommendations.

[buzz]

Thanks for the reply. After looking at it for a bit, I walked the part down to the LBS that I thought was closed that day. He looked at it and kind of shrugged thinking that it was not something he could figure out how to take apart. I do have a parts bike and not trying to get another pair to work, but the springs may be overworked on that set as well.