Moving a Woodway treadmill is a serious task. These are premium, heavy-duty machines built for commercial use, and moving them incorrectly can cause damage or injury. This expert relocation guide for Woodway treadmills will walk you through the safest methods, whether you’re moving it across a room or across town. We’ll cover everything from prep to reassembly.
First, understand that Woodways are not like residential treadmills. They are extremely heavy, often exceeding 400 pounds. The curved, self-powered design also means you can’t just fold them up. A proper plan is essential.
How to Move a Woodway Treadmill – Expert Relocation Guide for
Before you touch a single bolt, gather your tools and helpers. You will need at least two other strong people. Four is ideal for a full disassembly and move. Never attempt this alone.
Essential tools and supplies include:
* A set of hex keys (Allen wrenches) or a power drill with hex bits.
* Adjustable wrenches.
* Phillips head screwdriver.
* Moving blankets or heavy-duty furniture pads.
* High-quality plastic stretch wrap.
* Heavy-duty zip ties.
* A furniture dolly with straps (preferable) or a standard hand truck.
* Cardboard or plywood to protect floors.
Step 1: Safety First – Unplug and Document
Unplug the treadmill from the electrical outlet immediately. Give the console time to power down completely. This eliminates any risk of electrical shock.
Next, take clear, well-lit photos of the entire assembly. Focus on where cables connect to the console and how the handrails attach. These photos will be your best friend during reassembly. It’s easy to forget where a specific wire goes.
Step 2: Secure the Console and Cables
Carefully disconnect all cables from the console. Label each cable and its corresponding port using masking tape. For example, write “Left Speed Sensor” on the cable and the port it came from. Wrap the loose cables neatly and secure them with zip ties.
Gently lower the console onto the belt deck. Place a thick moving blanket or foam over the display screen. Then, tightly wrap the entire console and top of the deck with plastic stretch wrap. This holds the console in place and protects the screen and buttons from scratches.
Step 3: Disassemble the Handrails
Consult your Woodway manual for the specific disassembly steps for your model (4Front, Curve, etc.). Generally, you will need to remove the side handrails. This is where your hex keys come in.
Locate the bolts connecting the handrails to the main frame and the console uprights. Have one person stabilize the handrail while another loosens and removes the bolts. Place all bolts, washers, and nuts immediately into a labeled ziplock bag. Attach this bag to the corresponding handrail with tape or a zip tie.
Step 4: Prepare the Base for Moving
With the handrails removed, the unit will be lower but still very heavy. Wrap the entire remaining frame and belt deck with moving blankets. Secure the blankets with stretch wrap. This protects the belt, side rails, and finish from dings and dirt.
If your model has transport wheels, you may be able to tilt it carefully onto them. However, for stairs or long distances, a dolly is safer. Do not rely solely on the built-in wheels for major moves.
Step 5: The Actual Move – Team Lift and Dolly
This is the most critical phase. Communicate with your team at every step. For moving across a flat surface:
1. Position the dolly next to the treadmill.
2. With three people, carefully tilt the treadmill onto the dolly, ensuring its weight is centered.
3. Immediately strap the treadmill to the dolly securely.
4. One person controls the dolly while two others spot and guide, watching for doorways and corners.
For stairs, extreme caution is needed. You may need to partially disassemble further or use a powered stair-climbing dolly. Consider hiring professional movers experienced with fitness equipment if you have multiple flights of stairs.
Step 6: Reassembly and Testing
Once in its new location, reverse the process. Unwrap everything carefully. Use your photos and labeled bags to reattach the handrails. Reconnect all cables to their proper ports, double-checking your labels.
Before you plug it in, do a visual inspection. Ensure the running belt is centered and there are no loose parts. Plug the power cord directly into a grounded outlet—avoid extension cords.
Perform a basic function test. Start at a very low speed and listen for any unusual noises. Test the buttons and incline (if equipped) to ensure everything is working correctly.
When to Hire Professional Movers
You should seriously consider hiring professionals if:
* You have to navigate narrow hallways, tight corners, or multiple flights of stairs.
* You lack the necessary tools or strong helpers.
* You are moving the treadmill into a basement or up to a second floor.
* You are uncomfortable with any step of the disassembly process.
Professional movers have the equipment and insurance to handle the job safely. It can save you from costly repairs or a back injury.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many problems arise from rushing. Here are key pitfalls to skip:
* Not disassembling enough: Trying to move a fully assembled Woodway through a standard doorway is often impossible.
* Using cheap straps or a weak dolly: The weight can cause failure, leading to a dropped treadmill.
* Dragging the treadmill: This can ruin floors and damage the treadmill’s feet and frame.
* Forgetting to wrap the console: A scratched console screen is a expensive and frustrating mistake.
* Losing hardware: Keep all bolts and parts organized in labeled bags taped to the piece they belong to.
Taking your time and following these steps will make the process much smoother. The goal is to have your Woodway working perfectly in its new home without any stress or damage.
FAQ: Moving Your Woodway Treadmill
How many people does it take to move a Woodway?
You need an absolute minimum of two very strong people for a simple room-to-room move on a dolly. For any disassembly or stairs, three or four people is strongly recommended.
Can you move a Woodway treadmill without taking it apart?
You can move some models a very short distance on a perfectly flat surface by tilting it onto its transport wheels. For any real relocation, partial disassembly (removing handrails) is almost always required to fit through doors and protect the machine.
What is the best way to protect the Woodway belt during a move?
After cleaning the belt, wrap the entire deck area with moving blankets. Then, use plastic stretch wrap to hold the blankets securely in place. This prevents dirt, debris, and sharp objects from contacting the belt and tracking system.
Is it okay to lay a Woodway treadmill on its side?
Generally, no. You should avoid laying a Woodway on its side or back unless specifically instructed in the manual for your model. This can put stress on the frame and affect the calibration of the belt and deck system. Always transport it in an upright position if possible.
How do I find professional movers for this job?
Search for “fitness equipment movers” or “commercial gym equipment relocation” in your area. Ask for proof of insurance and references. A general moving company might not have the specific experience needed for a high-end machine like a Woodway, so choose carefully.
Moving your Woodway is a big job, but with careful planning and the right help, you can do it successfully. Always prioritize safety over speed, and don’t hesitate to call in the pros if the job seems beyond your scope. Your Woodway is a long-term investment, and protecting it during a move ensures you’ll enjoy it for many more miles to come.