That hasn't been my experience. I have both systems with shaker motors, both seem somewhat similar. Are you sure you're using the correct type for spike, it's different connections. On the SAM systems there is a board you add for power supply. On spike, or at least my Aerosmith machine there was an exsisting board (different type) that I plugged into, no additional installation. I would need to check which connector but it was very clear in my instructions, also believe these both were from pinball life. I accidentally connected a wrong wire plug on my new AC/DC 'VE' thank goodness for no damage however it did operate the motor but it was extremely week like you described. Figured it out using test mode & realized it wasn't hooked up correctly.