Shimano Steps E8000 Motor Cutout Fixed - Hooray!

In last week's video, I voiced frustration with continued motor cutout issues with my Shimano Steps E8000 e-assist motor. I was especially concerned since the solution that has worked in the past didn't work this time. In this video I talk about possible motor cutout ideas I pursued to diagnosis the problem. Some ideas were a bust. This is all happening in the backdrop of my 1st experience with dispersed camping on a forest service road in a national forest very near the Grand Canyon at over 6,000 ft in elevation. There are no services available on dispersed camping lands. I had to bring everything I needed such as gas for my generator, a full fresh water tank in my trailer and enough food for 4 days. I was camped close enough to the Grand Canyon that I was able to ride from the camping spot on the forest road to the national park. There are fantastic cycling paths right along the south rim of the Grand Canyon. While riding I had lots of motor cutout which was very frustrating. After trying a few failed ideas to fix the motor cutout, I called my friend Paul, the master bike mechanic who installed my Shimano Steps E8000 e-assist motor system 18 months ago. He explained that there is a hidden adjustment in the rear of the battery mount. Removing the back of the battery mount cover that protects the locking mechanism reveals a sliding piece that was loose. Tightening this down proved to be the successful solution. In this video, I go through all the steps necessary to do this adjustment. Many thanks to mechanic Paul for this solution!!
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This channel is about all things trikes and travel. I have been riding a recumbent trike since 2005 and have been touring since 2007 all over the world. I have toured on 6 continents, in over 20 countries and cycled more than 50,000 miles.
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Thanks everyone!!

[@kjlcycler]

Locktite blue on the threads may help keep those screws from loosening.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks, Kevin - good idea!

[@ChisWest]

i’m glad you found the problem. On my trike I used Electric Bike Outfitters E-Assist System. They have a different way of mounting the battery that does not come loose. Instead of sliding in from the side mine clips in from the top so I have never had that problem. But I’m glad you found yours.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yes, the Shimano mounts are designed for mountain bikes and typically installed vertically. Gravity keeps the battery in place.

[@burtisaac1000]

Yup, locktite blue is the key 🔑 . Salud 🥂

[@burtisaac1000]

Make sure you don’t use “locktite red”. There is a difference between “blue” and “red”. Red is permanent not needed in this application.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks, I picked up the blue - good thing!

[@markfeldman6509]

Nice trouble shooting tutorial! Allen keys are the one thing I never travel without. As a matter of policy for all of us...when we routinely clean and lube every 100 miles or so we should do a quick exam with wrenches in hand and tighten everything in sight as just routine riding will wiggle so many connections loose!

[@conniehoyle2669]

I’m so happy for you . They did all that with mine and I still had cutout . It’s driving me crazy.

[@conniehoyle2669]

It’s so frustrating. I went through the cleaning and tightening everything also . Now mine is in the shop. Thank you for the information

[@hawaiiantrike-surfkayak]

Wow, really good to know since I have the E8000 as well. Thanks for sharing. Since there isn’t a recumbent trike shop in Hawaii I have to be my own master mechanic or at least learn as much as possible and make sure both my road tool and home tool box is well supplied. This will definitely help. 😎

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yes, I can imagine being in Hawaii, as beautiful as it is, means being far from help. Although, the triking community is strong and everyone is eager to help for anyone who reaches out. Thanks, Bob!

[@hughwilson2219]

Did the motor cut out under any circumstances, or when you were putting the motor under strain going up hill? My Steps motor, different battery - in tube style - cuts out going up hill. The display keeps on but changing mode, Eco right up to High makes no difference at all. Seems this is a not unusual fault with Shimano. Sometimes an error number comes up but that just advises a sensor isn't working - not much use in finding out which sensor. I have had the shop fit new speed sensors but to be honest that has not fixed the problem. However, your analysis of the loose battery mount might be part of my solution. Shimano told the shop to change the battery harness, which the battery plugs into. Presumably on the basis that the finger connectors that go into the battery wear out. I've only done 14000 kms and the bike is now 4 years old. It's on it's second motor after Shimano replaced the first one, similar problem but then under warranty. I'd done about 6000 kms on that one, so as far as the bike is concerned, which means the battery mount too, it's done 20000kms. A mate of moine with an Avanti MTB and a Bosch motor has done 45000 kms in three and a half years and has the same battery and no issues at all. Gone through a few chains and sprockets though and two cassettes. Interesting point you make about the display, taking it in and out. I do that to dissuade theft so will mention that to the shop as well as the battery mount clip. He has adjusted that once already. Great video. Thanks.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks! The only issues I have had are with the battery mount. Some people put a velcro strap around the battery in the mount to keep it snug. Since moving the battery mount heel to fit tighter, the only issue I've had is with dust and dirt on the battery connections. Anytime I have an error code, I clean the battery plug, After that, the motor system always works as expected. Best of luck!

[@peiferlt]

Sylvia. See you at TaterTOT. Also suggest Blue Loctite for those battery adjustment screws to keep them from vibrating loose. I use it on many of the screws on my HPV fs26 Scorpion Enduro because of the rough, off-road trails I ride.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yep, see you at TOT!

[@macsmandy1]

Hi Sylvia. I like your videos, keep em' coming. I love the helmet visor. A diy? what material? The mirror is cool also........

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thank you, Michael. Yes the visor is plastic and the mirror is from Efficient Velo Tools.

[@billfearheller4179]

Sylvia, Did Paul say if you could use a "Dielectric Grease" (not sure of that spelling) on your terminal ends to seal out moisture and dirt, so you wouldn't have to clean your connections so much? I use lithium grease too in an emergency. Good video. Looking forward to the video of the ride along the canyon. Be well and stay safe, bf

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yes, thanks Bill. I have only cleaned the connections 3 times since the motor was installed. I have the grease too.

[@billfearheller4179]

@@TravelsByTrike Good to hear. BWSS. bf

[@TravelsByTrike]

@@billfearheller4179 and you, my friend!

[@zezzzz1650]

Absolute legend, my bike has been doing this for over a year and only just stumbled upon this video

[@TravelsByTrike]

Haha, that’s great to get a problem resolved.

[@janwilson8967]

Thanks for the video. Maybe this is the problem with my brand-new trike. I also left msg with my trike shop about having no e-assist and no throttle engagement.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Congrats on your new trike - I hope you get your e-assist issue sorted out soon!

[@piko4566]

Great video. I have also been having a similar problem for the past two years which I just cannot find a solution for. My E8000 system cuts out as soon as the sun comes out. As soon as the temperature reaches over 20 degrees Celsius I'll be riding happily riding along and then the motor will cut out and I will get the dreaded W011 error message. It works absolutely fine through all the Winter months. Has anyone else had this problem and if so how did you resolve it?

[@TravelsByTrike]

Interesting issue, Simon. I've been using this system for almost 4 years and I haven't had any issues with heat. I often ride in the desert around Palm Springs. The only issue I have had has been dirt or dust getting into the connections. A quick wipe-down has always solved my cut-out problems. Best of luck!

[@redtobertshateshandles]

Cover the display and see if it makes a difference. Keep the sun off it.

[@piko4566]

Good news. I replaced the sensor cable which on removal was found to have a pinch/kink in it. The system now works fine again.

[@TravelsByTrike]

@@piko4566 that was an easy fix. Enjoy!

[@tomboyd9053]

This has been a very informative video Sylvia. I also use the same Shimano Steps system but haven't had the cut out issue... Yet! I appreciate your efforts in finding the solution. Keep on Triking!

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks, Tom!

[@SFCRambo60]

Ask your friend if you should put some blue Loctite on the threads so as not allowing them to loosen up also ask if using star locking washers might help. Good luck.

[@TravelsByTrike]

I need to get some. Those loctite tubes are like the patch kit glue tubes. As soon as you open them they start to dry up.

[@paulahavens2764]

I looked at the video again and wondered if there should be maybe a washer under those screws to keep them tight? Maybe ask paul?

[@TravelsByTrike]

Maybe some locktite would be sufficient.

[@Hoggdoc1946]

This maybe a great tip for all e-bikers. I’m going to check my battery mount.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks!!

[@redtobertshateshandles]

The battery is designed to sit upright with the connections down at the bottom.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yes, I think gravity with an upright placed battery keeps it more secure.

[@chirogal2]

Sylvia what type of pedals do you have and how do you keep your feet stable?

[@TravelsByTrike]

I use wellgo pedals and black star bag pedal straps. I got them at RecumbentPDX.

[@jianwen1097]

有中文字幕嗎

[@emiel1976ep]

I have stuff that I put on my electronics. I don't know how it is called. Some sort of silicone liquid. I had it for my quads to waterproof them. Doesn't work on connectors, but it keeps the rest safe, also against dust. You can put some lock rings on the bolts. This will make that they will not come loose that fast and you don't need locktite. Not a big fan off that. Imy new build trike rides great. It isn't finished yet, but the difference is incredibly big with my first one. Can't wait till it is ready. I will also get a camper, but a lot smaller than you have and one that I hang behind my trike. That way, I always pull my bed with me. 😂

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yes, thanks Sky man! the dialectic grease is a good product.

[@redtobertshateshandles]

Millions of mechanics use blue Loctite. Successfully.

[@greg8576]

Very Helpful Sylvia!! Thanks!!

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks, Greg!

[@dubripple]

Thank you for this video! Pretty sure this is my issue

[@DavidRidesaTrike]

Very interesting. The trail where I ride is crushed limestone and my trike gets quite dusty so when I get the new trike with the E8000 system I assumed I'd have to regularly clean the contacts based on your previous videos. But this new fix is also one I'll have to keep in mind. Thanks! And I can't wait to see your Grand Canyon video(s)!

[@TravelsByTrike]

I’ve had the E8000 since October 2019 and have done a lot of off pavement riding. There’s only a few connections to keep clean. I bet blue loctite would keep the battery mount adjustment screws from loosening up too.

[@DavidRidesaTrike]

@@TravelsByTrike I'm always hesitant to use Loctite on anything. I worked in a stereo/TV repair department of a small set of chain stores here in Chicago and it caused us problems several times. I'm interested to see if your latest adjustment holds or at least holds for a long period of time.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yes, even without loctite, this is the 1st time I’ve tightened these screws in 18 months and after lots of off-road riding. Screws come loose. It’s the nature of screws, right?

[@DavidRidesaTrike]

@@TravelsByTrike Definitely seems to be! I've been told I have a few screws loose myself. 😁

[@derekcassells8341]

I have just seen this and it is exactly what I needed. Thanks Keven Letostak for the reminder about Loctite.( I have liked and subscribed. :)) )

[@derekcassells8341]

Update: I used your solution and things are definitely better but not perfect yet, even with mild abrasion of the terminals and the application of Noalox (as recommended by the dealer).

[@TravelsByTrike]

I hope you find a perfect solution and let me know!

[@derekcassells8341]

@@TravelsByTrike Thank you for your good wishes. I greased the plastic contact areas so the battery could easily slide in and now everything seems perfect (to the extent that I am letting the dealer who I bought the trike from in on the tip). Thank you for this video in particular and all of the others which I am currently catching up on.

[@Cruisebetty]

Awesome. Thank you

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks, Betty!

[@longrider42]

Glad you figured it out. A problem like that can be so annoying. And yet it was such a simple fix, but you didn't know about. My system is even simpler. Battery slides onto a plate under my rear rack, locks into place, then I plug it in via a cord. Simple and durable. Any ways, good on ya for your almost figured out fix with good old Duct Tape :) Stay safe, ride safe.

[@andreaspica]

Great video!!

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thank you!!

[@MB-sh3uu]

Good job sylvia! Yaay!

[@TravelsByTrike]

Many thanks!

[@jamesbarker4752]

Excellent! Good to know about the internal adjustments that can be made to the mount will need to check wife’s

[@beerman1957]

I was about to tell you to get a new mount, but it appears that they designed it so you could use different sized batteries. But, you figured it all out!

[@conniehoyle2669]

Ice is sending a wedge

[@cherimoore2458]

Enjoying your videos. Wonder if you have done a video on navigation? What do you use? GPS? Maps? Cell phone App? Would like to learn what you use and pros and cons you have found. Thank you

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks, Cheri! That's a really great idea. I have a terrible sense of direction and having good mapping software has been very important.

[@gogochem4898]

So glad you were able to fix your trike!I hope you got to see enough of grand Canyon. Thanks for info @ trike trail on south rim! safe travels

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks, it was a fantastic, awe-inspiring experience. I have lots of video to go through. I used a 10 ft stick for my Insta360 One X2. I felt like a jouster riding along the rim, haha!

[@marybuckwalter]

That’s a winner of a video, Sylvia! Thank you for digging for a solution. We have two trikes with e-assist (not Shimano) and your fixes are on our checklist. Happy trails!

[@TravelsByTrike]

Big thanks, mary!!

[@Olyphoto7]

Glad you got it fixed. I was surprised that you didn’t have tools. I’ve picked up a bunch of tools that I carry on every ride just because I have noticed that some things come loose when riding on rocky trails. Stay safe and thanks for sharing!

[@TravelsByTrike]

Oh, thanks Dan! I definitely have tools I just didn't have the 2mm allen key. I like the longer allen keys for leverage and decided to buy the whole set instead of relying on the miniature bike tool set.

[@djeoutdoors]

That’s great & probably going to help others with same issue, good video, Happy Trails 🤠

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yes, I think so too. Thanks!

[@rdkuless]

You will soon be a master mechanic like Paul. :) I would like to take a day class with a mechanic to learn all the ins and outs of etrikes and how to do on road repairs.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yes, Paul is a good friend who is generous with his time and knowledge.

[@paulahavens2764]

Great video, that will help a lot of owners. Glad you are now back on the trike again, look forward to seeing the cannon video. ride safe and take care go turtle power.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thanks, Paula - go turtles!!

[@oomhoward7462]

Live and learn ... Shimano appears to have thought this out very well 👍

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yes, thanks, I am happy to know this isn't a design flaw or motor system problem. Pretty simple solution, even I can tighten up screws, hahah!

[@barbarapier9575]

Glad you were able to fix the problem. Happy Trails.👍

[@TravelsByTrike]

Thank you, Barbara!

[@brucefarrar300]

Are you going to TATER TOT? If so, so you there.

[@TravelsByTrike]

Yep, see you there, Bruce!

[@charlespark7338]

Glad you have solved your cut-out issue. It my be worth looking to add some thread lock to those screws. Hopefully that should help to stop them vibrating loose. You will some be doing Pauls job. (*_*). Have fun riding .

[@TravelsByTrike]

Haha, Charles! Paul is also a good friend. I need to get some thread lock. Once you open a tube it goes bad quick. Thanks for the suggestion!

[@johninokla2635]

@@TravelsByTrike I have heard you can use finger nail polish as a locktite. Just put a dab on the screw head and the wall where it is screwed in. When the polish dries it stops the screw from turning and coming loose.

[@TravelsByTrike]

@@johninokla2635 isn't that something. Goodness! I had no idea - thanks for the tip!

[@johninokla2635]

@@TravelsByTrike I guess you could put the polish on the threads and screw the screw in normally. Since it is nail polish it won't be permanent like the red locktite.