Seems like several here have had problems with their powertap. We should start a FAQ section here (or something like that) with everyones experience and solutions to problems they've encountered. For instance:
I have also had problems where the hub stopped sending a signal to the computer. I had to replace the wire harness a few times. I finally figured out it would happen after riding inthe rain. On my last wire harness, I coated the seem of the receiver unit with epoxy to seal it up, and haven't had any problems since. Silicone would probably accomplish the same thing.
Problems I've had recently that I would appreciate any input/insight:
The last several rides I too have had problems with the computer not resetting. I know it should rezero torque when coasting, but it hasn't always been doing that lately. What happens is while I'm riding, I notice that the power seems too high for my perceived effort. I check the torque reading and it has drifted. I have to manually rezero the torque. I will have to do this several times during a ride. The only thing different I can think of is that it has been pretty cold (high 30s to low 40s F) I don't know if this makes a difference. Since it has been doing this, I have tried riding with the computer in the test mode. It looks like what is happening is that the signal from the hub is drifting (between 504 and 520). While I'm pedaling the computer does not rezero, and therefore the wattage is too high. Most of the times when I stop pedaling, the torque offset resets. Sometimes it doesn't and I have to manually reset. I can't figure this one out.
The other question I have - whats the best way to service the pressed in bearing. When it's wet out, I usually repack the ball bearings once a week. Those look great after many miles in the rain, but the pressed in bearing is cooked. I haven't been doing anything to that one. Is there a way to service that? What type of lube should be used on that. I would think it would have to be a thin lube, not like the type for ball bearings. That pressed bearing on the non-drive side is the only area that seems to get water.
Thanks for any advice