How To Oil Proform Treadmill

Keeping your treadmill in good shape is essential, and knowing how to oil proform treadmill is a key part of that. This simple maintenance task reduces friction, protects the belt and deck, and makes your runs smoother and quieter. Neglecting it can lead to premature wear and a less effective workout.

This guide walks you through the entire process step-by-step. You’ll learn how to check if your treadmill needs lubrication, what supplies to use, and the correct technique to apply it. Regular oiling will extend the life of your machine and ensure it performs its best for years to come.

Before you start, it’s important to understand that not all Proform treadmills require the same maintenance. Most modern Proform models come with a lubricated deck that may not need frequent oiling, but checking regularly is crucial. Always refer to your owner’s manual first for the manufacturers specific recommendations.

What You’ll Need

Gathering the right tools makes the job quick and easy. You won’t need much, but using the correct products is vital.

100% Silicone Treadmill Lubricant: This is the only type of lubricant you should use. Do not use WD-40, household oils, or spray silicone.
A Clean Cloth or Rag
A Phillips Head Screwdriver (for some models to loosen the belt)
Your Owner’s Manual for model-specific instructions

Step 1: Check If Your Treadmill Needs Oiling

First, you need to determine if lubrication is necessary. Oiling too often can create a mess and attract dust. Here’s a simple test.

Unplug the treadmill from the electrical outlet for safety.
Locate the center of the running belt between the deck.
Try to lift the belt and slide your hand underneath it. You should feel slight resistance.
If the belt moves very freely and your hand slides easily, it likely needs oil. If it feels dry or creates a squeaking noise during use, it’s definitely time.

Step 2: Prepare the Treadmill

Proper preparation ensures the lubricant gets to the right place. Start by cleaning the area to prevent grinding dirt into the deck.

Unplug the treadmill completely.
Use your clean cloth to wipe down the entire running belt, removing any dust, dirt, or debris.
If your model requires it, loosen the belt tension. Consult your manual; this often involves turning the rear roller adjustment bolts with a screwdriver. This creates a small gap to access the deck.

Step 3: Apply the Silicone Lubricant

This is the core of the process. Take your time to apply the oil correctly and evenly across the deck surface.

Gently lift the edge of the running belt on one side. You may need to use the screwdriver to carefully pry it up just enough to see the deck underneath.
Apply a thin, even bead of 100% silicone lubricant along the deck, about 1-2 inches from the edge. Do not over-apply; a little goes a long way.
Repeat this process on the other side of the treadmill belt. You should have two parallel lines of lubricant running the length of the deck.
Some manuals recomend applying three lines: one down the center and one along each side. Check what your specific model calls for.

Step 4: Distribute the Lubricant

Now you need to spread the oil evenly under the entire belt. This step ensures full coverage and prevents sticky spots.

Lower the belt back into place.
Plug the treadmill back in.
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 2-3 minutes. This allows the belt to naturally spread the silicone lubricant across the entire deck surface.

Step 5: Final Check and Cleanup

After distribution, do a final inspection to make sure everything is working properly and looks clean.

Stop the treadmill and unplug it again.
Wipe off any excess lubricant that may have seeped out from the edges of the belt with your cloth.
If you loosened the belt tension earlier, now is the time to retighten the adjustment bolts according to your manual’s specifications. The belt should not slip when you walk on it, but you should still be able to lift it slightly.
Do a quick visual check to ensure the belt is centered and tracking straight.

How Often Should You Oil Your Proform Treadmill?

Frequency depends on use. A good rule of thumb is to check every three months or every 130 hours of use. If you use your treadmill daily, you might need to oil it more often. Always rely on the hand test described in Step 1 rather than a strict calendar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these errors will protect your investment and keep your treadmill running safely.

Using the Wrong Lubricant: Only 100% silicone treadmill lube is safe. Other oils can damage the belt and deck.
Over-oiling: This can cause the belt to slip and create a mess. More is not better.
Not Unplugging the Machine: Always disconnect power to prevent accidental startup.
Ignoring the Manual: Your specific Proform model might have unique requirements or a pre-lubricated deck that needs less frequent attention.

Troubleshooting After Oiling

Sometimes, issues can arise after maintenance. Here’s how to fix common problems.

Belt is Slipping

If the belt hesitates or slips under your feet after oiling, you probably used too much lubricant or didn’t retighten the belt properly. Unplug the machine and tighten the rear roller adjustment bolts a quarter-turn on each side. Test and repeat if necessary until the slippage stops.

Treadmill is Making Noise

A new squeak or rubbing sound could mean the belt is misaligned. Check the tracking and center the belt using the adjustment bolts. Also, ensure you didn’t get lubricant on the motor or any pulleys, as this can sometimes cause noise.

Belt is Still Stiff or Noisy

If the belt still feels dry after oiling, you may not have applied enough or distributed it well. Repeat the application process, ensuring you get good coverage under the entire belt. It’s also possible the deck itself is worn out and needs professional inspection.

FAQ Section

Can I use WD-40 on my Proform treadmill?

No, you should never use WD-40. It is a degreaser and penetrant, not a lubricant. It will actually dry out the deck and belt, causing more damage over time.

Where can I buy Proform treadmill lubricant?

You can purchase 100% silicone treadmill lubricant online from retailers like Amazon, directly from Proform, or at most fitness equipment stores. Many brands are compatible as long as they are 100% silicone.

How do I know if my Proform treadmill is self-lubricating?

Many newer Proform models have a “Lube-Free” or “EverLubricated” deck. Check your owner’s manual or the product description from when you bought it. If it is self-lubricating, you typically do not need to add oil.

What happens if I never oil my treadmill?

Failing to oil a treadmill that requires it leads to increased friction. This causes the belt and deck to wear out faster, the motor to work harder and overheat, and can result in costly repairs or early replacement of the machine.

My treadmill belt is off-center after oiling. How do I fix it?

This is a common issue if the belt was disturbed. While the treadmill is unplugged, use the rear roller adjustment bolts. Turn the left bolt clockwise a quarter-turn to move the belt left, or the right bolt clockwise to move it right. Make small adjustments and test until it’s centered.

Regular maintenance, including knowing how to oil proform treadmill correctly, is the best way to protect your equipment. It’s a simple task that takes only minutes but adds years to your treadmill’s life. Always put safety first by unplugging the machine and following the steps carefully. For more detailed information specific to your model, always consult your Proform owner’s manual, which you can often find online if you’ve lost your copy. A good resource for manuals and parts is the Proform Help Center.