The amount of time your treadmill runs without failure depends on the proper maintenance of the motor, belt and platform. The little maintenance chores you do regularly can help increase the life of the treadmill and save money in repairs. When parts like the belt or motor become worn, the heat can cause the motor to break, costing hundreds of dollars in repairs.
General Maintenance
Step 1
Adjust the treadmill belt using an Allen wrench. The screws to adjust the tension on the belt are normally located at the back of the treadmill. Turn the screws approximately 1/4 inch clockwise and check the tension on the belt to ensure it's not too tight.
Step 2
Lubricate the belt and platform regularly to reduce friction between the parts. Apply the oil to the center of the platform under the belt. After applying the oil, set the treadmill speed at a slow pace and walk on it for a few minutes. This disperses the oil throughout the treadmill and belt.
Step 3
Clean the belt once a week to remove dirt and dust, which can get into the motor and cause failure. Keep your treadmill in an area that isn't dusty, and clean it once a week to avoid dirt buildup.
Step 4
Keep the treadmill on a level area of the house. If the treadmill is on an incline or an unstable area of the house, the belt can slip and fray.
Step 5
Replace belts that are frayed. Frayed treadmill belts cause friction on the motor, and can ruin your machine. Adjust the belt regularly to prevent belt fraying. To adjust the belt, find the hexagonal screws on the rear side of the treadmill. Use the Allen wrench to turn each screw 1/4 inch in a clockwise motion. Feel the tension in the belt. If it's still too lose, turn the screws again. Repeat this until the belt is snug on the rollers.
Replacing a Treadmill Belt
Step 1
Remove the screws on sides of the treadmill platform. These screws hold the frame and the platform together. By removing them, you can slide the old belt off the rollers and the platform.
Step 2
Slide the old belt off the rollers and platform. You may need to loosen the belt first by turning the rear tension screws counterclockwise.
Step 3
Slide the new belt onto the platform and rollers. Once the belt is placed in the center of the platform, tighten the tension screws to ensure the new belt does not slip to the side.
Step 4
Reconnect the frame and platform using the screws removed from step one. Ensure they are tight to avoid injury during a workout.
Step 5
Test the belt's tension by walking on the treadmill at a slow pace. If the belt is too loose, turn the tension screws in the rear of the treadmill 1/4 inch in a clockwise motion. Continue until the belt is firmly seated on the rollers and the platform.
Things You'll Need
- Allen wrench
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