Treadmills have metallic decks or solid wood boards that support the walking belt. Each type is subject to damage that requires replacement. Metal decks must be cleaned regularly to prevent the belt from functioning improperly. Wood boards must be waxed with a dry deck lube that's sprayed on manually or by an automated system. Metal decks are engineered to strict specifications and should be replaced with a factory replacement deck. Wood boards are made using plywood that can be sealed and waxed to give your treadmill extended life. Making a walking board for a treadmill is done using basic hand tools and a short list of materials.
Step 1
Unplug the power cord. Turn the belt tension adjustment bolts counterclockwise with an open-end wrench or use the tension-adjustment knob to reduce the belt tension. Remove the bolts that secure the front roller cover to the treadmill using an Allen wrench or screwdriver. Remove the cover and set it aside.
Step 2
Remove one of the side plates by lifting the plate out of slots or by removing the bolts that attach it to the treadmill. Slide the running belt off the front and rear rollers and set it aside. Use an Allen wrench or screwdriver to remove the bolts that secure the wood board to the unit. Save the bolts for re-use and remove the board.
Step 3
Place the board atop a piece of 1/2-inch AC grade plywood, trace the outline of the board and mark the locations of the bolt holes. Cut the outline using a circular saw with a finish blade and drill 3/16-inch holes at the marked locations. Use a sanding block with 200-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges and the A-grade face of the new plywood board.
Step 4
Apply three coats of clear wood sealer to the A-grade side of the new board and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Buff the sealed surface with fine-steel wool and wipe the residue away with a clean rag. Spray a light, uniform layer of dry lube on the finished face of the board.
Step 5
Place the board on the treadmill, thread the bolts into the holes and tighten them in an alternating sequence for a uniform attachment. Put the belt on the rollers. Reattach the side plate and front roller cover and tighten the screws that hold these in place. Plug in the power cord and adjust the belt tension to the desired setting.
Tips and Warnings
- Fill the automated dry lube reservoir before using the treadmill. Apply dry lube manually per the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. Check the belt for signs of wear and replace it if necessary.
Things You'll Need
- Open-end wrench
- Allen wrench
- Screwdriver
- 1/2-inch AC-grade interior plywood
- Circular saw with finish blade
- Electric drill
- 3/16-inch drill bit
- Sanding block
- 200-grit sandpaper
- Clear wood sealer
- Fine steel wool
- Clean rag
- Dry lube spray
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