Troubleshooting Vector Power Meter Data

If you feel that the power readings from your Vector Power Meter is either too high, too low, or erratic, please run through the following tips and troubleshooting techniques to ensure that Vector is installed and configured correctly.

For all generation Vector pedals:

• Confirm crank length setting is correct 
• The crank length setting on your paired head unit needs to be set to match the length of the cranks on your bike.  By default this value is set to 172.5

• Perform a static calibration prior to each ride from your paired head unit

• Ensure that the batteries for Vector are good and were replaced in pairs from your last battery change

• Confirm that the internal operating software on the Edge or Forerunner is up to date.
  • Use Garmin Express to check and install any applicable software updates that may be available.
  
  
• Confirm that you have the latest internal operating software installed on the Vector pedals.
• For more information on checking and installing the latest firmware on the Vector system, please review Related Content at the bottom of this FAQ.

For Vector and Vector S (Silver Pedal Pods) 

• Do not allow the silver pedal pod to rest against the crank
• Many cranks have a recessed counterbore around the spindle threads, and require a washer or two to take up the gap and ensure that the pedal pod is touching the crank only on the raised pedal pod mounting face
• If you can slip a piece of paper between the pod and the crank around the pod, you have sufficient clearance.
• Each washer is 1.2mm thick. Never use more than two (2) washers -- as this may result in an insufficient number of spindle threads being engaged with the cranks, and could create a dangerous installation.

• Properly torque the pedals down with a torque wrench
• We recommend that pedals be tightened with a torque wrench applying a minimum of 25-30 lbf-ft ((34-40 N-m) of pressure.  Pedals that are hand tightened or under this value may report a low power value.

• Set the pedal install angles again
• Remove and reinstall the batteries from your pedal pods 
• Reset your install angles from your paired head unit on a smooth stretch of road or on a bike trainer.  Pedal smoothly!
• Do not attempt to set the install angles by spinning the cranks with your hands

For Vector 2 and 2S (Black Pedal Pods)

• Only add a washer if you need to pull the pedal pod connector head further in to the spindle in order to improve the chain clearance
• Each washer is 1.2mm thick. Never use more than two (2) washers -- as this may result in an insufficient number of spindle threads being engaged with the cranks, and could create a dangerous installation.

• Ensure the shoulder of the spindle (pod mounting area) is clean, dry and free from any grease or lubricant before clamping the pedal pod around the spindle.

• Properly torque the pedals down with a torque wrench
• We recommend that pedals be tightened with a torque wrench applying a minimum of 25-30 lbf-ft (34-40 N-m) of pressure.  Pedals that are hand tightened or under this value may report a low power value.

• Set the pedal install angles again
• Remove and reinstall the batteries from your pedal pods 
• Reset your install angles from your paired head unit on a smooth stretch of road or on a bike trainer.  Pedal smoothly!
• Do not attempt to set the install angles by spinning the cranks with your hands

As a last more advanced effort, you can consider performing a Torque Test to confirm Vector is reporting the correct power reading.  Please see Related Content below to perform this test.