Front brake are noisy as hell (I assume hell is very noisy).  A sort of
strident noise, and it seems to be getting worse and worse, only when I
apply the brakes, of course.

I seem to recall this is a problem with a small part in the system?  A
springs perhaps?  My memory is fading, this is from a conversation with a
friend 10 years ago...

Advice appreciated.

�ric