If you need to move, repair, or store your machine, learning how to disassemble a NordicTrack T 65 S treadmill is a key skill. This guide will walk you through the process safely and efficiently, ensuring you don’t damage any components.
How to Disassemble NordicTrack T 65 S Treadmill
Before you start taking things apart, proper preparation is crucial. Rushing in can lead to lost parts, injury, or damage to your treadmill. Setting aside enough time and gathering the right tools will make the job much smoother.
Gather Your Tools and Prep the Area
You will need a few basic tools. Having them ready before you start will save you from frustration later on.
- Adjustable wrench or set of open-end wrenches
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Allen wrench set (metric is often used)
- Socket set with extensions
- A pair of pliers
- Electric tape or zip ties
- A small container for bolts and screws
Clear a large space around the treadmill. You’ll want plenty of room to lay down parts as you remove them. It’s also a good idea to have a helper, as some pieces are heavy and awkward.
Safety First: Unplug and Secure the Machine
Your safety is the most important step. Never skip these initial precautions.
- Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet. This eliminates any risk of electric shock.
- If your model has a safety key, remove it and store it with the power cord.
- Fold the treadmill deck to the upright position if possible. This gives you better access to the base and makes it more stable to work on.
- If you can’t fold it, consider placing a soft object under the motor hood to tilt the base slightly, giving you better acces to the underside.
Step-by-Step Disassembly Process
Now we can begin the actual disassembly. Follow these steps in order to keep everything organized.
1. Remove the Console and Motor Hood
The console is delicate. Start by carefully detaching any wires connecting it to the base. Look for plastic connectors you can unclip—do not pull on the wires themselves.
- Use your screwdriver or Allen wrench to loosen the bolts holding the console mast to the base frame.
- Once the bolts are out, you can gently lift the console and mast assembly away. Have your helper hold it steady while you disconnect any remaining wires.
- Next, locate the screws or bolts on the motor hood (the plastic cover over the front motor area). Remove them and lift the hood off.
2. Lower the Deck and Detach the Walking Belt
This step involves the heaviest part. If your deck is folded, lower it carefully to the flat position. You will now need to loosen the walking belt to relieve tension.
- Find the rear roller adjustment bolts at the very back of the treadmill, on either side.
- Using your wrench, turn both bolts counter-clockwise, exactly the same amount (like a quarter turn each). This loosens the belt so it’s not stretched tight.
- Once the belt is loose, you can carefully slide it toward the center of the deck. This gives you access to the deck bolts underneath.
3. Separate the Deck from the Frame
The deck is attached to the side rails with several large bolts. This is where your socket set with extensions will be very helpfull.
- Look for the large bolts running vertically through the side rails into the deck. There are usually two or three on each side.
- Remove all of these bolts completely. Place them immediately in your parts container.
- With the bolts removed, the deck should be free. It is very heavy, so get your helper to assist in lifting it straight up and away from the frame. Set it down gently on a soft surface, like a blanket, to avoid scratching the surface.
4. Disconnect and Remove the Motor
With the deck gone, you’ll see the motor mounted on the front frame. Before removing it, note how the wiring is connected—taking a photo with your phone is a smart idea.
- Disconnect the motor wires from the control board wiring. The connectors should unplug by hand.
- Remove the drive belt from the motor pulley. You might need to rotate the pulley by hand to get slack.
- Unbolt the motor from its mounting plate. There are typically four bolts holding it in place.
- Lift the motor out. It’s surprisingly heavy for its size, so use caution.
5. Take Apart the Frame and Side Rails
The final major step is breaking down the main frame. This makes it manageable for transport.
- Look for the large pivot bolts or pins at the base of the uprights (where the console mast was attached). Removing these allows you to fold or detach the uprights.
- Next, locate the bolts that connect the two side rails to the front and rear crossbars. Removing these will let you seperate the side rails from the rest of the frame.
- Once all bolts are removed, the frame should come apart into several long pieces. Use your electric tape or zip ties to bundle any loose wires together.
Packing and Storage Tips
You’ve successfully taken it apart. Now, keep everything organized for reassembly or storage.
- Place all small hardware (bolts, screws, washers) in sealed bags. Label each bag with a note about where the parts came from (e.g., “Console Bolts,” “Deck Bolts”).
- Wrap the console and motor in bubble wrap or moving blankets. These are the most sensitive components.
- If storing, keep the treadmill parts in a dry, climate-controlled area. Avoid damp basements or hot attics, which can damage electronics and the deck.
- Keep the owners manual with your bagged hardware. It has diagrams that are invaulable for reassembly.
FAQ: Common Questions About Treadmill Disassembly
How long does it take to take apart a NordicTrack T 65 S?
With a helper, you should plan for about 1 to 2 hours. Doing it alone for the first time could take up to 3 hours. Taking your time to label parts is worth the extra effort.
Can I disassemble my NordicTrack treadmill by myself?
While possible, we strongly recommend having a second person. The deck and motor are very heavy and awkward to handle alone, which increases your risk of injury or dropping a component.
What if I lose the bolts or assembly instructions?
If you lose the manual, you can usually find a PDF copy on the NordicTrack website by searching your model number. For lost bolts, take a sample to a hardware store for a match, or contact NordicTrack customer service for replacement parts kits.
Is it hard to put a NordicTrack T 65 S back together?
Reassembly is basically the reverse of disassembly. If you labeled your parts bags and took photos during teardown, it will be much straightforward. The main challenge is aligning the deck and re-tensioning the walking belt correctly, which requires patience.
Do I need any special tools not listed?
The tools listed are generally sufficient. However, having a rubber mallet can be useful if any pins are stuck. A flashlight is also handy for seeing bolt holes in tight spaces under the frame.
By following this guide, you can confidently take apart your treadmill. Remember to work slowly, keep parts organized, and always prioritize safety. With the machine disassembled, you’re ready for your move or the next step in your repair project.