If your Horizon T101 treadmill is making a squeaking or grinding noise, you might need to reset its lube belt system. Learning how to reset lube belt on Horizon T101 treadmill is a simple fix you can do yourself with a few basic tools. This guide will walk you through the entire process step-by-step.
How to Reset Lube Belt on Horizon T101 Treadmill
The T101 has an automatic lubrication system for the walking belt. A small reservoir holds lubricant, and a timer tells the machine when to release it onto the deck. Resetting this system simply means telling the treadmill’s computer that you’ve added fresh lube, so it can start its timer over. It’s a crucial step after any maintenance.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Gathering your supplies first makes the job go smoothly. You won’t need many items.
- Silicone-based treadmill lubricant (specifically made for treadmills)
- A clean cloth or rag
- A hex key (Allen wrench) set – the one that came with your treadmill is perfect
- A small phillips-head screwdriver
- A helper to lift the treadmill deck (optional but very useful)
Step 1: Safety First – Unplug the Treadmill
This is the most important step. Always, always unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet before performing any maintenance. It prevents accidental starts and protects you from electrical shock.
Step 2: Lift and Secure the Treadmill Deck
You need to access the area under the belt. Locate the motor cover at the front of the treadmill. There’s usually a small hole or lever. Insert your hex key into the hole or press the lever to realese the deck. Carefully lift the walking deck up. It can be heavy, so ask your helper to hold it steady.
Step 3: Apply the Treadmill Belt Lubricant
With the deck lifted, you can see the underside of the walking belt and the deck. Apply a thin, even bead of silicone lubricant down the center of the deck. Don’t over-lube! Two or three lines from the front to about three-quarters of the way back is sufficient.
- Too much lubricant can cause the belt to slip.
- Make sure you’re using silicone lubricant, not WD-40 or other oils.
Step 4: Manually Distribute the Lubricant
Lower the treadmill deck carefully. Now, you need to spread the lubricant. Plug the treadmill back in for this step only. Stand on the side rails, not the belt. Start the treadmill at a very slow speed, like 1 or 2 MPH. Let the belt run for 30 to 60 seconds. This helps the lubricant spread evenly between the belt and the deck. Afterward, unplug the treadmill again before proceeding.
Step 5: Access the Reset Button
Now it’s time to find the reset button. On the Horizon T101, this button is typically located on the electronic console. You’ll need to remove the motor hood or a small cover. Use your phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws holding the hood in place. Set them aside safely. Gently lift off the hood to reveal the electronics and motor.
Step 6: Locate and Press the Lube Reset Button
Inside, look for a small circuit board or a button near the motor area. The button is usually red, black, or yellow and might be labeled “LUBE,” “RESET,” or have a small icon. It’s often near a green or red LED light. Once you find it, simply press and hold this button for about 3-5 seconds. You might here a beep or see a light flash, indicating the system has been reset.
Step 7: Reassemble and Test
Place the motor hood back on and secure it with the screws. Plug the treadmill back into the power outlet. Turn it on. The console should now recognize that the lube cycle has been reset. To test, walk on the treadmill at a moderate pace. The squeaking or friction noise should be significantly reduced or gone completely.
Checking Belt Tension and Alignment
Sometimes noise is not just about lubrication. After resetting the lube system, it’s a good idea to check your belt tension and alignment. A belt that’s too tight or misaligned can also cause problems.
- To check tension, try to lift the belt in the center. You should be able to lift it about 2-3 inches off the deck.
- To check alignment, look at the belt relative to the rear roller. It should be centered and not rubbing on either side.
Adjustments are made with the hex key on the rear roller adjustment bolts. Turn each bolt a quarter-turn at a time, checking frequently.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you’ve reset the system but problems persist, here are a few things to check.
- Persistent Squeaking: The issue might be the drive belt or motor bearings, not the walking belt.
- Belt Slipping: This usually means you applied to much lubricant. Wipe away excess with a cloth.
- Reset Button Not Working: Ensure the treadmill is unplugged when you press it. Double-check you have the correct button.
- Console Error: If an error code appears, consult your T101 manual for specific code meanings.
How Often Should You Lubricate and Reset?
Horizon recommends lubricating your T101 every three months or every 130 miles, whichever comes first. However, your usage may vary. If you use the treadmill daily, you might need to do it more often. The key is to listen to your machine and reset the lube system every single time you add lubricant.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the lube reset button on a Horizon treadmill?
On the T101 model, the lube reset button is located inside the motor hood, near the motor or on a small circuit board. You’ll need to remove a few screws to access it.
What happens if I don’t reset the lube belt system?
If you don’t reset it, the treadmill’s computer won’t know you’ve added new lubricant. It will continue to count down based on the old maintenance cycle and may not remind you to lube it again on time, leading to premature wear.
Can I use any lubricant on my Horizon T101?
No, you should only use 100% silicone-based treadmill lubricant. Other oils or household lubricants can damage the belt and deck, voiding your warranty.
My treadmill still squeaks after lubrication and reset. What now?
First, recheck belt tension and alignment. If the noise continues, it could indicate a worn drive belt, a problem with the roller bearings, or an issue with the motor. At this point, contacting Horizon customer support might be your best bet.
How do I know when my treadmill needs lubricant?
The most common signs are a squeaking or grinding noise from the deck area, increased friction when you try to move the belt by hand, or if the belt feels like it’s dragging. The console may also display a maintenance reminder if the lube timer has elapsed.
Performing regular maintenance, including knowing how to reset lube belt on Horizon T101 treadmill, is key to keeping your machine running smoothly for years. It’s a straightforward process that saves you money on service calls and extends the life of your equipment. Just remember to unplug the machine, use the right lubricant, and always reset the system when your done.