If your Sole E25 elliptical feels wobbly or uneven, you’re in the right place. Learning how to level sole e25 elliptical machine is a simple fix that makes your workout much smoother and safer. An unlevel machine can cause annoying noises, extra wear, and even throw off your form. This guide will walk you through the easy steps to get it perfectly flat.
How To Level Sole E25 Elliptical Machine
Before you start adjusting anything, you need to figure out how uneven your machine really is. This first step is crucial for getting it right. You’ll be suprised how much a tiny tilt can affect the feel.
Gather Your Tools and Prep the Area
You won’t need many tools for this job. Having them ready before you start makes everything go faster. First, clear the space around your elliptical so you can move freely.
- A standard carpenter’s level (at least 2 feet long is best).
- The provided Sole tool kit (usually includes an Allen wrench and open-end wrench).
- A few sturdy shims. You can use plastic or composite shims from a hardware store, or even old floor tiles or thin wood pieces.
- A tape measure.
- A helper is useful but not absolutly necessary.
Find Out Which Legs Need Adjustment
Don’t just guess which corner is low. Use your level to get an accurate reading. This tells you exactly where to place your shims.
- Place your level on the main foot rail, parallel to the floor. Check it near the front and then near the back.
- Note which side of the bubble in the level is raised. If the bubble is centered, that section is level.
- If the bubble is off-center, the machine is tilting toward the side where the bubble is. For example, if the bubble is to the left, the right side is higher.
- Repeat this process by placing the level side-to-side across the foot rails to check for tilt forward or backward.
Understanding the Leveling Feet
The Sole E25 has adjustable leveling feet on all four corners. They look like large plastic knobs or bolts at the bottom of each leg. Turning them clockwise raises that corner, while turning counter-clockwise lowers it. However, if the floor is very uneven, these feet alone might not be enough, which is where shims come in.
Step-by-Step Leveling Process
Now, let’s get your machine stable. Follow these steps in order for the best results.
- Loosen the Locking Nuts: On each leveling foot, there is a locking nut. Use the open-end wrench to slightly loosen this nut. This allows the foot to turn freely. Don’t remove it completely.
- Adjust the Feet First: Try to level the machine using just the adjustable feet. Turn the feet on the low side clockwise to raise them. Make small adjustments, like a quarter-turn at a time.
- Re-check with Your Level: After each small adjustment, place your level back on the foot rail. See if the bubble is getting closer to the center. Patience here is key.
- Add Shims if Needed: If you’ve turned a leveling foot all the way up and that corner is still too low, you need a shim. This is common on sloped or uneven floors.
How to Properly Shim the Elliptical
Shimming is simple but must be done carefully to ensure the machine is supported securely.
- With a helper, carefully tilt the elliptical just enough to slide the shim under the low leg. You only need to lift it a tiny bit.
- Start with a thin shim. You can always stack another one on top if you need more height.
- Lower the machine onto the shim. Then, screw the leveling foot down so it makes firm contact with the top of the shim. This prevents the shim from sliding out.
- Use your level again to check. If it’s still not level, you may need a thicker shim or to adjust the foot further.
Final Tightening and Testing
Once the bubble in your level is centered in both directions, you’re almost done. The final step is to secure everything so it doesn’t shift during use.
- While holding the leveling foot in place so it doesn’t turn, use your wrench to tighten the locking nut firmly against the base of the leg. This locks the setting.
- Do this for all four feet.
- Now, get on the elliptical and use it normally for a minute. Walk and pedal in both directions.
- Get off and check your level one more time. Sometimes the weight of a person can compress the feet or shims slightly.
- If it’s still good, you’re all set. If not, make tiny final adjustments and re-tighten.
Preventing Future Problems
A little maintenance can keep your E25 level for a long time. Check the level every few months, especially if you move the machine or notice new creaks. Also, make sure the floor surface is clean and dry before you place shims, as dust can cause them to slip. If you have carpet, a solid equipment mat can help distribute weight and provide a more stable base to begin with.
When to Call for Help
Most leveling jobs are straightforward. But there are a few situations where you might need professional assistance. If your floor has a severe slope (more than an inch over the length of the elliptical), permanent floor leveling might be needed. Also, if you hear grinding or cracking from the legs when adjusting, stop immediately. There could be a seperate issue with the frame. Finally, if you’ve tried everything and the machine still rocks, double-check that all frame bolts are tight according to the assembly manual.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my Sole elliptical rocking even after I leveled it?
If it still rocks, the issue might not be the legs. Check that all the frame bolts are tight, especially where the uprights meet the base. Also, ensure the rear roller arms are securely fastened. Sometimes a loose part inside can mimic a rocking feeling.
Can I use coins or cardboard as shims?
It’s not recommended. Coins can slip out and are a safety hazard. Cardboard compresses over time and will lead to the machine becoming unlevel again. Use purpose-made plastic or composite shims for a safe, durable fix.
How do I level a Sole E25 on thick carpet?
Thick carpet is tricky because it compresses. A solid equipment mat is the best first step. Place the mat under the entire machine, then level on top of the mat. The mat provides a firm, even surface for the leveling feet to press against.
What way do you turn the leveling feet?
Remember: Righty-tighty, lefty-loosey applies to raising and lowering. Turn the foot clockwise (right) to raise that corner up. Turn it counter-clockwise (left) to lower that corner down. Always loosen the locking nut first.
Is an unlevel elliptical bad for the machine?
Yes, it can cause premature wear on internal bearings and belts. It puts uneven stress on the frame and can lead to annoying squeaks and pops. For your safety and the machine’s longevity, keeping it level is important.
Getting your Sole E25 perfectly level might take 20 minutes, but it makes a world of difference. You’ll enjoy quieter, smoother workouts and protect your investment. Just take your time, use the right tools, and check your work twice. Now you can get back to exercising on a stable, secure machine.