June 01, 2015

Treadmill common questions

Treadmill common questions.
Treadmill common questions.

These common questions about treadmills are the ones our experts hear the most often from our customers. You might also find the help you need by checking the common symptoms and solutions for treadmills. When you’re ready to make a repair, search your model number to find replacement parts. Sears PartsDirect has the part you need, no matter where you bought your treadmill.

Is there a weight limit for the treadmill?

Yes, only persons weighing 250 lbs. or less should use the treadmill. Some models of treadmills accommodate up to 300 lbs. Check your Owner's manual for the specific weight limit.

Why does the treadmill belt slow down when I'm on it?

A lack of belt lubricant on the walking belt is a common cause. Follow the information in your Owner's manual for the proper type of belt lubricate and instruction for lubricating the walking belt.

A worn platform, walking belt or an overtightened walking belt will also cause the belt to slow down when walking.

Why does the treadmill belt slip when I'm on it?

A loose walking belt will cause the belt to loose grip of the front roller and cause the walking belt to slip. Unplug the treadmill and remove the key before adjusting the belt tension. Tighten the walking belt using the adjustment screws at the back of the foot rails. To tighten the belt, use the Allen wrench supplied with the treadmill. Turn both screws clockwise 1/4 of a turn to tighten the walking belt. When correctly tightened, you should be able to lift each edge of the walking belt 2-3 inches off the walking platform. Do not over tighten the walking belt.

Why is the treadmill walking belt off-center?

To center the walking belt, unplug the treadmill and remove the key. Use the Allen wrench supplied with the treadmill to adjust and center the walking belt. Use the two adjustment screws at the back of the foot rails. If the walking belt has shifted to the left, turn the left adjustment screw clockwise 1/2 of a turn. If the walking belt has shifted to the right, turn the left adjustment screw counter-clockwise 1/2 of a turn.

Why won't my treadmill turn on?

First, check and confirm the wall outlet has power. Plug some other working electrical appliance in the outlet to check the outlet for power.

Check to see if the power switch where the power cord enters the treadmill has tripped off. Flip the power switch to ON to reset the power switch.

Why does my treadmill turn off when I'm using it?

Check the wall outlet for power. Check the surge protector and the power cord for a loose power cord connection. Check the treadmills power switch to see if has tripped. If tripped, wait 5 minutes and then press the switch back. Remove the key from the console and then reinsert it.

Should I plug the treadmill into a surge protector?

Yes, you should use a surge protector to reduce the risk of damage to the electronic controls. A damaged control system may cause the walking belt to slow down, speed up or stop unexpectedly.

Use only a surge protector that meets all of the specifications described in the user's manual.

Symptoms for treadmills

Choose a symptom to see related treadmill repairs.

Main causes: no power, bad power cord, tripped or faulty overload switch, bad power switch, wiring failure, bad motor co…

Main causes: rear roller out of alignment, damaged walking belt, bad roller…

Main causes: missing safety key, bad control console, wiring failure, faulty motor control board, bad drive motor…

Main causes: faulty sensors, wiring failure, bad control console…

Main causes: bad control console, wiring failure, bad motor control board…

Main causes: damaged walking belt, improper belt tension, lack of belt lubricant, bad drive motor…

Main causes: damaged walking belt, improper belt tension, bad roller bearing…

Repair guides for treadmills

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your treadmill.

How to replace a treadmill motor controller

How to replace a treadmill motor controller

Your treadmill motor won't run with a defective motor controller. Replace the motor controller if it doesn't operate the…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a treadmill walking belt

How to replace a treadmill walking belt

A worn walking belt will begin to slow down during use. If your treadmill walking belt is worn out, replace it using the…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 45 minutes or less
How to replace a treadmill drive motor

How to replace a treadmill drive motor

A defective drive motor won't run when activated by the motor controller. Replace the treadmill drive motor if it doesn'…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

Articles and videos for treadmills

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your treadmill.

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