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Same as this question one side of brake pad retention problem (i.e. attached to rim) but mine is a cantilever brake. The answer there doesn't work as mine doesn't have those screws and the brake holders look very different.

The bike is a mountain bike if it matters.

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jf328
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  • Possible duplicate of one side of brake pad retention problem (i.e. attached to rim) – Móż Apr 16 '16 at 21:26
  • Comments to that question point out that the adjustment required is the same for both cantilever and V brakes, and the question is also about cantilevers. So I can't see how it is not a duplicate. You may find it helpful to read this answer too. – Móż Apr 16 '16 at 21:29
  • @BlamBlamBlam I edited the question. The comment in that post doesn't seem to be right. There is no such screw on my brakes – jf328 Apr 16 '16 at 21:54
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    Can you check the plastic collar between the brake arm and the frame to see if it has cracked? – mikes Apr 16 '16 at 23:00
  • If you don't have the tension adjustment screw, you might be able to pull out the main bolt and fit the big spring's foot into another hole, Many bike frames have three positions where the spring can be inserted. If you're already on the most-tense one then it could be time for a new spring from the LBS. – Criggie Apr 17 '16 at 06:46
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    I have the multiple hole system @Criggie mentions. The other thing that can make the adjustment fail is friction in the cables, especially if the cable end is close to the brakes themselves. When I changed the cables I could loosen the return spring two holes and it still returns better. – Chris H Apr 17 '16 at 12:37
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    Clean and lubricate the posts and the insides of the brake-arms. Don't forget to grease the springs as well. – Carel Apr 17 '16 at 19:00
  • So - three weeks later... how's progress on your brakes? – Criggie May 08 '16 at 09:24

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If you have cantilever brakes with no adjustment screw you can usually bend the spring.

At the top of the arm the metal spring probably pushes against a post. On the side that's stuck to the rim unhook the spring and push the spring away from the rim. Don't do it too hard to start with. Hook it back to the post and try to see if it's balanced the brakes. Keep trying until the brakes balance.

Stuart Brock
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    This fix is good for months at best. Every time a spring is bent beyond its elastic limit and deforms, you weaken the metal and remote a little more springiness. Better to use one of the three mounting holes to add more tension to the weak side. – Criggie May 08 '16 at 09:09
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    In my experience the type of brake that does not have screw adjustments are generally so cheap and overbuilt that this is not a problem. I agree that changing the mounting hole would be a good solution if this was available though. You should write an answer rather than a comment. – Stuart Brock May 09 '16 at 07:09