Saris H3 Knock / Click Sound. Opening up a Saris H3.

[@velosapien]

If you had a wahoo , you would be on your 3rd or 4th replacement. If you had a tacx you would have taken your own life by now...

[@Domitarou_Taiyaki]

I just happened to open my Saris H3 and your video helped me especially that I never know the bolts are imperial, not metric! Thank you. (Fortunately my H3 does not have knocking sound problem so far)

[@wbrunott]

Thank you SO much for taking the time to make this video - your effort is really appreciated. Although I have not started having this knocking noise - only have used my Saris H3 for 500km and I am an old man (65) recovering from a broken hip (3 months post operation) so I am not putting the same strain on the machine like you young bucks. I live in Thailand so getting service for the US or Europe will not be an option - so when the noise starts I will know what to look for and have some ideas on how to fix it myself. Cheers

[@kdub1666]

Nice detective work! And thanks for taking the time to do this video. I was considering an H3 purchase but will hold off. I was worried about the Saris power lag and overshoot/undershoot issues but this issue is more significant. It's difficult to find an issue-free smart trainer these day. And these things aren't cheap or easy to ship back for repair. Thank goodness for youtube reviewers like yourself! I bet it's a systemic problem causing quicker belt degradation. I would guess those lubricated hard metal bearings would be the last thing to fail. The softer alloy compound making contact with those hard bearings is another story. The resulting slop likely compounds by creating a slope mismatch and belt rubs against the edge of pulleys or on the flat surface resulting in quicker rubber belt wear/debris. I doubt locktite-like glue would help but who knows. By now you've broken-in your replacement H3. Is it working better?

[@poorpossum79]

All good thoughts and observations! No issues from the new trainer... Agree that most trainers still have some basic niggles! I do still like Elite, however... but would probably do a Neo next time.

[@VinslomBardy]

Thanks for this video. I have the same issue, and have just sent an email to Saris Support requesting a warranty replacement.

[@Bluzzface]

Hi, how was your experience with the Saris support?

[@BilKleb]

Thank you for posting this. At the end of my first ride, the knocking began. During the second day, it began earlier. Sad. If I keep it and the gap is thin enough, I might consider sacrificing a feeler gauge or strip of Aluminum soda can as a shim, but only at one portion of the circumference, I.e., not a circular shim.

[@poorpossum79]

Thanks for this. Let me know if you see the same thing as I did. I'm not sure a feeler or aluminum can material would have fit for me (gap too narrow).... I hope you can resolve it with Saris ultimately.

[@BilKleb]

Since I just purchased it, I swapped it out for a Wahoo (plus $). Hopefully I won’t hit a similar snag. If I hear anything from the bike shop about their dealings with Saris, I’ll post an update here.

[@MetalMic]

I had exactly the same issue with my H2 and the problem was permanently solved when I changed my belt and readjusted the tension

[@Goji-Berries]

Same issue with my H3 that I purchased in 2019. Took them 2 months to get back to finally acknowledge my issue. Covid-19 or not, that’s way too long to ignore a complaint (especially when warranty is expiring). I had the same amount “gunk” at the bottom of my trainer without the wear on the plastic “fan” thing.

[@darrenwilliams3740]

Hi, the aluminium spigot will be the problem and if not tight originally, then it will wear and become loose reasonably quickly. The best Loctite for this type of application is Loctite 641 and is intended for applications such as bearing retention where it is likely the item may need removing again in the future for servicing etc.

[@poorpossum79]

Thanks Darren. Did you see the other comment which suggested roughing up the collar? I hadn't even thought of that...!

[@luist76]

@Darren Williams where exactly it's supposed to use the Loctite 641? Inside the bearings?

[@neilarnold7244]

I would’ve thought loctite 609??

[@Seagull8me]

I have solved similar issues where bearings fit with too much clearance by using a prick punch and hammer to gently dimple the soft alloy, in this case the “collar”. The raised dimples, placed in a uniform pattern around the entire surface of the collar, effectively increase the collars’ diameter slightly to provide a snug fit for the bearing. Start with light hammer taps and check the fit often. If you overdo it and the fit is too tight, carefully file the peaks of the dimples to reduce their height. Work slowly and patiently, and check fit often!

[@poorpossum79]

Great idea!!! I didn't even think of that.

[@snoboardkid11]

Just got my H3 delivered yesterday. Used it today for the 2nd time, yesterday I did a Ramp Test only, and after about 45 mins the knocking began. Super loud and annoying and happened so soon after purchase, less than 2 hours of riding time. I emailed them and am waiting to hear back. I hope their team is quick about the issue. I'm worried it will take a long time to receive a fix since they are back-ordered so far and no longer taking new orders at this time.

[@poorpossum79]

good luck! The good news is that the sound shouldn't affect functionality!

[@snoboardkid11]

@@poorpossum79 That's what I have heard. I just road it again and it seems to only make a sound when it gets hot. Quiet when I first start riding but after an hour or so it begins. Just gonna wait to hear back from Saris.

[@Bluzzface]

​@@snoboardkid11Hi, it would be interesting to hear how your story just ended and how your experience with the support is. I got my S3 10 days ago and today after 1h of riding the sound started. I don't know if I should contact the shop I bought it or the Saris support.

[@fjaviergonzalezsanchez9708]

I have the same knocking noise issue with my unit and after watching your video it seams that the collar diameter doesnt have the best quality, maybe if you put here a dial indicator and turn you can find poor roundness value. I dont have yet any response from Saris. Attaching teflon plumber to close the gap can solve the issue...

[@mnansyah]

I have the problem with the Digital Board. Having issue with no Power Watt reading. Wish to get the replacement so I can reused my Hammer H2 again for zwift. Googled but no help to get info.

[@sillypuddystl2907]

You can get peel-away aluminum shims that can be brought down to thousands of an inch and then cut to shim size shape needed. Also shim tape would have probably done the job. Just a thought.

[@poorpossum79]

Excellent input. Thanks

[@mos2o]

Do you know what this 'collar' at 9:30 does and if it's possible to get a replacement? After opening my trainer I found out that this piece is broken

[@poorpossum79]

That sounds bad! If it's the cast aluminum piece then you may need a new trainer :(

[@mos2o]

@@poorpossum79 I contacted Saris support. The part is named "top hat spacer" and they would ship it within US/Canada. But since I live in Germany, I asked my local dealer if they could get me that spacer. So a little hope still left...

[@luist76]

I had several problems with my H3. One of them is that same scratching sound. Another one is that the washer that comes out after the hub was totally crushed. All I got from Saris support was: "ship it back to us, and we'll take a look." Well.. I'm in Europe, and when I checked the cost of shipping it to the US... Well it's cheaper to buy a new one! It's really sad to see that Saris support is good... For americans...

[@stevekang4741]

Thanks for this…great troubleshoot. No reply after 24 days so far for me; sent a second one. Got my H3 in 9/19; after a week same prob, it was replaced. Now two new prob; the sleeve spacer Part 24504 (the collar) is broken so the freehub slides back/forth (clunking sound); second prob, at low speed there is squeaking sound like a chew toy, may need belt replacement kit. Just disappointing not a year yet with all these issues. Maybe should have known better and got a Neo 2T; had a H1 with issues too(I replaced belt as well as clunk)…anyway cheers…

[@poorpossum79]

Be patient with them! They came through for me in the end.

[@RemiBusseuil]

I agree 100% on the fact that the neo tact 2 looks 100x more reliable and quieter

[@francoispitre181]

Appreciate video , new Saris H3 but already some friction noise. Bit affraid about design 3 friends buy unit at the same tine and are very powerfull cyclist 🤔

[@thechadfords]

So frustrating. Just returned my second Wahoo Kickr Core after big vibration, pretty much new in the box. Looking around for an alternative, and Saris looked good then found your info. I'm also a MechE and clearly bad manufacture/quality control rather than design flaw per se; or maybe their GD&T for their production is flawed? I think I'll go back to rollers for now, given none of the companies seem to have their products reliably sorted out yet.... Unacceptable at these price points!

[@poorpossum79]

You don't like the Neo? If I could do it all again, I may go that route...

[@thechadfords]

@@poorpossum79 the Neo looks nice, but significantly more expensive again. On Canada the $900-$1300 range all seem to have issues. Neo up around $2k

[@doesntbalance]

Why do you think they left the fan piece surface smooth instead of matching the grooves on the belt?

[@fatblokediets9648]

No knocking, just a horrible rough and lumpy feeling ride and a grinding noise, like the front mech was rubbing (it wasn’t). Sent it back after one day.

[@Seagull8me]

Assuming that you got your replacement H3, I'm curious if after some use it has remained knock-free. And if so, might you have opened it up to see if the fan mount is in fact snug and wobble-free, or some other obvious change was made to correct the issue?

[@poorpossum79]

The replacement does make a bit of noise, but nothing like the first. Have not opened it .... Yet!

[@Bigkidbird4]

Its not the pulley, brand new pulleys have the same amount of bearing play. I finally found replacing the 'good looking' belt fixed it. Try tightening the belt some and spraying the belt with belt conditioner/dressing. Ive literally tried everything and that fixed the noise.

[@luist76]

Where did you got the replacement belt?

[@ParametricToroid]

Do you know what holds the main axle in place on the non-drive side? It almost looks like some kind of glue. Is there some type of bolt on the other side that holds it in place?

[@poorpossum79]

I'm sorry I don't know.... and this was a while ago now so I just don't recall

[@rivaluta]

I've got the same problem! I bought it in Italy I wrote to SARIS but no reply. I have used H2 without ever having any problems. I bought H3 thinking it was better but this noise is driving me crazy. Among other things, it also disturbs the neighbors. How did you solve?

[@poorpossum79]

In the end I got a replacement. If you are patient with saris support I think they will help. I hope you are comforted in knowing that the sound is not a major mechanical fault! All the best, ciao!!

[@rivaluta]

@@poorpossum79 www.laquilatoday.com/noise-saris-h3-smart-trainer/

[@winderjw]

@poorpossum fantastic video. I'm a Mechanical Engineer (as you are, I assume), and watching this felt like I was at work - far more comfortable watching this than reading the horror stories online. Were your dealings with European Saris support? I've not received it yet but I've just ordered an H3 from a retailer who, to be honest, I'm not sure I wholly trust to deal with a warranty return (their T&Cs indicate that the customer must pay for warranty shipping which is against EU regs), so if anything should go wrong with my unit I'd rather bypass the retailer and go straight to the manufacturer. If you're dealing with Saris within the EU I'd feel a hell of a lot more comfortable about my recent purchase!

[@poorpossum79]

Thanks for the kind words! I was dealing with the US saris, but that may be all they have. Once I got traction, they were great. The sounds seems to be a design 'feature' lol. I've heard it can be much worse than mine. So if you hear some small sounds I wouldn't worry about it!

[@winderjw]

@@poorpossum79 I agree that it doesn't look like any harm was being done, but for the price we pay for these things the only noises I'd find acceptable are a bit of motor whine and whispered compliments on the shape of my calves. Fingers crossed that nothing goes wrong with my trainer but if it does, your experience has given me confidence in Saris' support.

[@Stephanie-dl3ry]

Was ready to pull the trigger on an H3 when luckily I stumbled across your video. That bearing surface is both out of round and of poor tolerance which suggests sloppy engineering. And why on earth would they not rib the large fan - the point of a ribbed belt is to maintain position. Seems poorly designed to me and not worth the money asked.

[@brandizeipekis7854]

Is it stil under warranty? That sound would drive me crazy.

[@poorpossum79]

It was, yes, and Saris did replace it :)

[@fatblokediets9648]

@@poorpossum79 even though you took it apart?

[@saikatbanerjee291]

Did you get the replacement? In case if you have then are you still hearing the same noise in the new trainer. I have the exact same issue after riding for 1 hour at 200 watts with the new trainer.

[@poorpossum79]

New trainer is good so far.... It's been a few months

[@RemiBusseuil]

To me it looks like the clunking is comming from the rotor not the fan wheel

[@RemiBusseuil]

I have had my belt disintegrate as well. Saris support play dead. So I ordered a generic belt code 370J 940mm (if this info can help anyone)

[@poorpossum79]

Thanks for posting this. Helpful.

[@adamm-well1470]

@remi Busseuil wish I had seen this thread and part number before I ordered the wrong one...the belt and pulley setup that Saris shows on their website for belt replacement is completely different. This video was very helpful for a diagnosis I am working on currently as well.

[@humbertosoto1694]

Did you get a new Saris H3 unit or you just got the replacement piece? In both cases your Saris is currently working okay? @PoorPossum

[@poorpossum79]

I got a new unit and it does not make the same noise.

[@humbertosoto1694]

@@poorpossum79 Thank you so much for the information, was really hepful!!

[@humbertosoto1694]

Iam having the same problem right now. I will like to know what are the consequences of not having the piece replacement, if this can cause any damage or brake the unit with continuous use ? Iam very dissapointed because jusy buy this unit a month ago and only use it like 10 times. @PoorPossum

[@poorpossum79]

If your problem is the same as mine then I think there are no consequences. I think the unit is safe and still accurate.

[@humbertosoto1694]

@@poorpossum79 Thank you so much i feel better now that this problem does not affect the longevity of the unit!!. Nevertheless i will talk to saris to let them know the issue. Do you know which is the normally warranty period of the Unit that Saris offer?

[@joeroberts6056]

I have the same problem it is horrendous (see: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pInEg3-aprF0gZI ) It started when it was a couple of months old. Just notified the supplier we'll see how that goes

[@poorpossum79]

Honestly Joe, your problem sounds a bit different to mine. In your video it sounds like there is some physical contact being made somewhere....

[@joeroberts6056]

So the latest, had this back from Ed at Saris "Hi, Sounds like there might be a screw loose on the pulley wheel. There is a Screw pulley kit that can resolve the issue. Unfortunately we don't ship out of the US. We do have do have distributors in your area that can certainly help. Here is the contact information below: United Kingdom Raleigh UK Ltd" Couple of things: 1. It is definitely not a loose screw, this is heat related (screws don’t tighten and then become loose on temperature) 2. I haven't asked them to ship anything, I have asked for advice. The information could have included instructions, part numbers for spares, things to check, where I stand on warranty if I open this thing up, etc Also small point to consider, they sell these thing outside the US but apparent don’t ship, so if I knew what part to replace and was told how they won’t send it anyway? So far the UK retailer seems to be ignoring me.

[@joeroberts6056]

Update, after the UK retail assessing a warrantee claim for 2 weeks but not coming to a determination, I requested an exchange. The supplier won't send the replacement until they receive the orginal, frustrating but I understand. The only issue is their courier seems to have lost it. They advise me there is nothing they can do until it is found, I have explained this is indefinite, so is not really an expectable answer. They assure me this is policy so that’s it. So my advice the trainer is great, and I would recommend it to anyone. But if you are buying it in the UK get it from a retailer you can take it back to yourself.