Regular cleaning is essential to keep your treadmill running at peak performance. Sweat left on a machine can result in rusting of framework and ultimately compromises frame strength. It can also seep into the internal areas of the treadmill resulting in problems with belt rollers and electronic components. By cleaning away sweat after each use your machine will provide you with much greater reliability. Damage caused through poor maintenance will not be covered by warranty.
To clean the plastic parts of your treadmill, use a mild detergent and make sure the unit is completely dry before operating. On the running deck use a clean cloth and approved silicon spray (see application procedures below). On the mat, use a soft nylon scrubbing brush. DO NOT USE WATER TO CLEAN THE BELT OR RUNNING DECK, OR TO CLEAN THE ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS. Should water come in contact with the electronics, immediately blow dry the area and contact a service technician prior to operating the unit.
It is recommended that you keep all liquids away from the unit during operation. Spillage of liquids onto or into the machine will void warranty.
Matt demonstrates a poorly maintained treadmill. Watch the Video below>>
Belt and Deck Maintenance
Lubricating the deck of your treadmill will reduce the wear of the deck and running belt. We recommend the use of a Silicon Lubricant applied through a liquid or aerosol form to the deck directly UNDERNEATH the belt. Before applying the lubricant make sure your treadmill is turned off and the belt has stopped moving entirely. Frequency of application is determined by use. Review the deck once a week to note whether additional lubrication is required. It is important to note that only a small film of silicon is required to prevent premature wear. Avoid over applying silicon.
Each month ensure that you wipe the entire deck surface with a clean lint free cloth. Remove all traces of silicon lubricant and dust. Reapply a fresh application of silicon once this process has been completed.
Please ensure that no silicon residue touches the top of the running belt as this may cause the user to lose traction and slip off the belt.
Adjusting the Running Belt
The belt is properly aligned at the factory. However during shipping and handling or by use the belt may move off centre, it is important that you check the belts alignment before using the treadmill. In some instances belt movement can be attributed to running style as well as uneven surfaces.
CAUTION: DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO WALK ON THE TREADMILL DURING THIS PROCEDURE.
Failure to realign the belt could result in tearing or fraying of the belt, which is not covered under warranty. Please follow the correct procedure listed below.
* Start the treadmill at a slow speed of approximately 2-3 km per hour.
* Observe the mat for approximately 30 seconds checking that the mat is running straight and is running at right angles to the motor cover.
* If the belt is not running correctly it needs immediate adjustment.
* If the belt is too far left, turn the left belt-tensioning bolt, located at the rear of the treadmill, clockwise ¼ turn at a time. Turn the right adjustment bolt counter clockwise ¼ turn and let the treadmill run for at least 30 seconds. Repeat if necessary. However do not turn adjusting bolt more than a ¼ turn at one time.
* Conversely, if the belt is too far right, turn the right adjusting bolt clockwise ¼ turn and the left
* adjusting bolt counter clockwise ¼ turn. Then b let the treadmill run for at least 30 seconds and then check the position of the belt.
* When the belt is back in the proper position slowly increase the speed of the treadmill and let it run for at least 45 seconds. Try using the treadmill, if you feel a pause in the belt with each foot step, the belt is too loose. Stop the machine, then adjust both rear roller bolts clockwise ½ turn at a time. Try the machine again and check the result. If more adjusting is required, give both adjusting bolts another slight turn. Do not adjust more than two full turns.
* Be careful not to over tighten the belt, as it will adversely affect the life of the unit. There should be about 15mm give in the belt.
Belt Slippage
Belt slippage occurs occasionally on new machines and in some cases on older models. It results from the belt itself stretching slightly when friction causes the belt to stretch. In most cases this is quite normal especially with heavier users or runners. To rectify this situation simply adjust both left and right sides of the roller using the allen key when the machine has stopped fully. As with the aligning procedure, only make ¼ turns on each side until the problem has ceased. Never make any more than 3-4 full turns. If the problem persists after making the adjustments it may require additional adjustments in the front roller under the treadmill hood, which should only be performed by a trained technician. Contact your support hotline to organise this service.
ALWAYS TAKE CARE WHEN TESTING FOR SLIPPAGE AND WHEN USING YOUR MACHINE IN GENERAL, PARTICULARLY AT HIGH SPEEDS. SUDDEN STOPPING CAUSED BY BELT SLIPPAGE CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY.
CAUTION
To avoid injury, special care must be taken when adjusting the running belt or working near the rear roller. Remove any loose clothing or shoelaces and tie back your hair. Be careful to keep your fingers or any other object clear of the belt and rollers. Treadmills are designed to carry specific weights at specific speeds. The treadmill will not stop immediately if any object becomes caught in the belt or rollers. Over tightening causes damage and premature failure of the precision bearings in the front and rear rollers.
Other precautionary measures:
- Many manufacturers recommend the use of spike or surge protectors which you insert into the power points in your house. The treadmill outlet cord simply plugs into this device protecting the electronics in your machine from surges. While circuit breakers are useful for safety they will not necessarily protect your valuable product from power surges. These products are available for around $20 in most electronic outlets such as Tandy or Dick Smith. Unplugging the machine when not in use also reduces the likelihood of electrical surge related problems.
- When starting your workout, NEVER begin by standing on the belt. Allow the treadmill to build up speed before mounting the machine- the belt should be moving for approximately 20 seconds before entry. This process helps reduce static workload on the motor. It is suggested that heavier users allow for slightly higher speed ranges if they are physically able to do so, to further reduce workload.
- As with any fitness product, we recommend that children and elderly users take extreme caution during use and should be under close supervision when using these products.
- When folding and/or moving treadmills, ensure all electrical cords are unplugged from the machine.