VPI Flywheel with Aries Turntable - Help

Thanks all for your suggestions. They have been very helpful. As of now I have tried the following: grounding the flywheel to the AC outlet ground screw (no change); grounding the tonearm to my phono preamp (c-j premier 15) (no change); install new belts with talc (no change), ensure turntable rack is level (no change); removal of the flywheel (BIG CHANGE FOR THE BETTER). Based on my experience, and at least two of the suggestons submitted, the Aries seems to perform (to my ears) better without the flywheel installed. After first purchasing this table I added the stainless steel clamp (improvement). I then added the SDS. This resulted in a DRAMATIC IMPROVEMENT in the sound. I mean an order of magnitude improvement. I was amazed at how much better this table sounds with the SDS installed. I would recommend the SDS without reservation. I can't say that I have gained anything by adding the flywheel. Thoughts???

I think it's time to call VPI. If you bought it from a dealer of from VPI directly, if they can't rectify the situation, they might take it back or allow an exchange/credit.

Maybe loan it to someone else & see if it works for them? Or last resort - just put it up for sale.

I have corresponded with VPI cutomer service. They have agreed to take the flywheel back (I will return it through my dealer). VPI customer service is GREAT. They take a real interest in their customers and their satisfaction with VPI products. After all this is said and done, I honestly feel that the Aries table sounds better without the flywheel installed.