sticky rear brakes....

[Maz]

I always have this problem.
When I apply the brakes then release them, the brake blocks stay in contact with the rims. I have to manually pull them apart (when I'm not moving!) to stop the rubbing.

Is it likely to be the coiled spring in the brakes or maybe the cable? I'm not sure where to start with this.
The cables have never been changed from new [about 3 yrs].

 

[albion]

Use the tension screws. Whilst primarily used to balance the brakes they can probably also solve any corrosion resistance.

 

[totallyfixed]

It's almost certainly where the inner passes through the outer, you really need to replace both, should only take 10 - 15 mins each cable. Cost ought to be around £5 - £8, don't forget to measure the outers or take them with you to the shop so they can cut you the correct size, if it's a decent shop they will make sure you have everything.
If you want the shop to do it I presume you use either Websters or Julies Cycles, can I recommend Windmill Wheels at Wymondham, and it's a great cafe stop, if you ring ahead you could probably have a tea stop while your bike is being fettled.
BTW I change all my cables every 2 years at the latest, the commuting bikes every year.

 

[HLaB]

If its vee brakes rightly or wrongly I usually set their spring in the upper of the three holes and don't really have to worry about it, cleaning relubing is only occasionally needed. With the side pull breaks on the road bikes a bit more preventative maintenance is required cleaning/ relubing of cables/ break pivots/ springs/ lever and if a problem arises replacement of the cable inners and perhaps outers.

 

[cyberknight]

My rear brake was the same untill i replaced the cable and gave the outer a good clean by squirting wd 40 through it.

 

[Maz]

Thanks. I have a few things to try out now.
The brake is a 'side-pull' type.

 

[Fnaar]

Maz, the first answer here worked for me... the mallet/screwdriver/spring one.
I also lubed the cables by turning the bike upside down and putting a few drops of oil down the outer, and leaving it while I had my tea. I think it was the spring centring thing... I'd done nothing more than change brake blocks, and no amount of fiddling about with nuts/spanners was sorting it. But this seemed to centre the spring and it worked a treat.
My brakes are single pivot side pull caliper tektros, looking just like the ones you've linked to.