What is the grating sound coming from my Shimpo?

If you are noticing a grating noise when you operate the wheel, this is very often caused by a metal disc which protects the bearings and is designed to deflect any water that may get under the wheelhead. It is not fixed in place, so sometimes it rotates with the shaft causing the noise. A small amount of grease usually holds it in place preventing the noise. 

To correct the problem, remove the wheelhead using the T bar tool supplied with your wheel to undo the Allen key under the wheelhead, loosening it so it can be lifted off. You will see the disc around the shaft and if you turn the wheel on, you can see how the disc picks up speed from contact with the shaft.

There is likely to be a small amount of grease under the disc. If you build up the grease so it contacts more firmly with the disc, that will prevent it moving. Vaseline will do if there is no grease there.

When the wheelhead is replaced, make sure that the flat side of the shaft corresponds to the Allen key and press down firmly before tightening the Allen key. This will also help to prevent the disc from moving.