Lubricating it is single most important maintenance task you can perform on your treadmill. Why? Because it extend the lifespan of your investment.
You see, the belt and the deck rubs against one another thousands of times per minute. When they aren’t properly lubed friction builds up. This creates heat, wears out both material, and actualy destroys the motor.
Treadmill owners typicaly avoid the chore until their machine begin to stutter or squeak. But by that point, the damage is typicaly done. Knowing when to lube and what type of lube to use are critical.
Choosing and Using the Right Treadmill Lubricant
Why Treadmill Lubrication Matters
Choosing the Right Lubricant
First of all the confusion begins with fluid itself. You may see a bottle of WD-40 or 3-in-1 oil and think “that’ll do”. Nope.
It won’t just fail to work; it will also ruin deck and possibly void your warranty. There is actualy a very specific class of silicone lubricant that is used in the industry. They offers a dry, smooth film which cuts down on friction but doesn’t stick or attract dust.
Look for product marked specifically for treadmills. There are several brands such as Life Fitness Treadmill Lubricant or Black Widow Treadmill Lubricant. These is made specifically for this use and won’t harm any of the rubber and plastic part within your treadmill.
If you use something petroleum based such as oil, it’s going to break down belt material over time.
How Often to Lubricate
These are things to lubricate. When to lubricate There’s a general recommendation that you should of lubricate every 130 miles or three months, whichever occurs first.
But if you’re running it regularly, you may need to do so even more frequent. Moddern ones comes with a light on the dash to remind you to maintain, but most don’t. Feel your belt to determine whether it need a top up.
If it feels hot, or dries when you try to walk it it’s probably time for some lube. Not doing so makes a quick little job (two minutes) into a big expense bill. The belt wear out early.
Step-by-Step Lubrication Process
The deck have grooves in it that you can’t buff smooth again. It’s an easy process and take a little attention. First, remove power to the machine.
Next, raise one end of the belt so that you have access to the underside of the deck. Using very sparingly, place a small bead of lubrication down center of the deck (about two inches from the edge of the belt). Do the same with the opposite side.
Now, simply walk across the belt for a minute to distribute the fluid. Use a rag or something to wipe up any leftover excess. Too much fluid left on surface will cause the belt to become slick and hazardous.
You want a slightly coated area…not a pool. Spend some time here to get the fluid to the spots where there is friction, because that is where it will do more good then most people think.
Liquid vs Silicone Gel Options
In place of liquid sprays, there has been a rise in popularity of silicone gel lubricant.
Available in single-use packets inserted into the belt, the melting of the gel occur by frictional heat while spreading gradualy in contact with skin. It makes no mess. It won’t over-lube.
People who don’t like fussing with liquid application prefers this. However, it is best suited for machines with conventional deck surface. Heavier duty application or some older ones might continue to find use in old-fashioned liquid silicone for quicker relief of friction.
Whatever suits your preference… Go for pure silicone though, not gels containing impurities that can gum up the mechanism.
Inspecting the Deck Condition
Lastly, what shape is your deck in?
A well-lubricated deck is nice, but a beat-up deck won’t improve from lube alone. If the surface is really grooved up, then lube isn’t going to do much. At that point, you might have to turn the deck over and expose a new side.
Some high-quality treadmill are designed just like this. Refer to your owner’s manual; maybe yours was built with this capability. Regularly flipping the deck (every year or two) along with routine lubrication can add 2x more life to your machine.
This little bit of upkeep has a tremendous payoff. Run the belt smoothly, and the treadmill will run you for many years to come.
