hi,
i just installed my h3-3d gimbal and when i turned on the phantom the gimbal started spazzing out and making a whining noise. anyone know whats wrong? i tested it without a go pro on it could that be the cause of the issue?

A slight noise is normal and i can't figure out whats going wrong just during your verbal description.
Maybe you can take a video,  post here or send an e-mail to support@dji.com

Yes, in the manual it says never turn it on without the GoPro as the gimbal is fine-tuned for the weight.
So the gimbal is trying frantically to balance the GoPro when it's not there..can wear out the motors really quick.