Motorized treadmills tend to share a common design, and the operating procedure remains fairly consistent from one model to the next. If you use one of these machines regularly, you may eventually encounter a problem that will require some maintenance. Occasionally, this will involve partial disassembly of the treadmill's base.
Basic Operation
Before you step on the treadmill, clip the safety key's lanyard to your waistband. This way, if you slip and fall off of the walking belt, you will detach the key, disabling the device. To start your workout, stand on the side rails and slide the key into the corresponding slot on the console. Look for the buttons labeled "Speed" and set the treadmill to the lowest speed. Hold onto the handlebars and begin walking on the belt.
Preprogrammed Workouts
Many modern models of treadmill come equipped with a variety of workout programs built into the machine's console unit. Often, the buttons for these programs are labeled as such, and have diagrams printed next to them that illustrate the nature of the workout. The programs are divided into segments, and as each segment begins, a tone will emit and the speed and incline settings will change shortly after.
Misaligned Belt
Over time, the belt on your treadmill may shift out of alignment, affecting the quality of your workout. To recenter the belt, set the treadmill's speed to the lowest setting and kneel down next to the rear edge of the walking deck. Watch the belt as it moves to determine which direction you need to shift it. Next, locate the bolts installed inside of the rear end caps. Use an allen wrench to loosen or tighten the bolts in quarter turns; this will shift the belt slightly.
Belt Replacement
If your treadmill's walking belt wears out and you need to install a replacement, begin by turning off the device and unplugging the power cord. Use an allen wrench and a Phillips screwdriver to remove the motor hood, end caps and side rails. Next, disconnect the drive belt from the front roller and remove the bolts securing the rollers and the sides of the deck to the base. Now you can remove the deck and slide the old belt off. Put the replacement belt on and reinstall all of the previously-removed components. Apply a layer of silicone lubricant to the surface of the deck before you attempt to use the treadmill again.
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