Keeping your treadmill in good shape is essential, and knowing how to oil nordictrack treadmill is a key part of that. Regular lubrication reduces friction, protects the belt and deck, and ensures your machine runs smoothly and quietly for years to come. This guide will walk you through the simple process step-by-step.
How to Oil Nordictrack Treadmill
Oiling your treadmill isn’t a complicated task, but doing it correctly makes all the difference. You’ll need just a few things and about 15-20 minutes of your time. First, let’s make sure you have the right supplies.
What You’ll Need
Gathering your materials before you start will make the job go faster. Here’s what you need:
- 100% Silicone Lubricant: This is non-negotiable. Use only the lubricant recommended by NordicTrack, typically 100% silicone. Do not use WD-40 or other aerosol sprays.
- A Clean Cloth or Rag: For wiping away any old residue or dust.
- A Screwdriver or Allen Wrench: To loosen the walking belt for the “lift and apply” method (common on many models).
- Your Treadmill Owner’s Manual: Always good to have on hand for model-specific details.
Step-by-Step Lubrication Guide
Follow these steps carefully to oil your NordicTrack treadmill properly. Make sure the power is off and the machine is unplugged before you begin for safety.
Step 1: Locate the Lubrication Points
You need to apply oil between the walking belt and the deck. On most NordicTrack treadmills, you do this by lifting the edges of the belt along both sides. Some newer models have designated lubrication ports near the center of the deck—check your manual to be sure.
Step 2: Prepare the Treadmill
Center the belt on the deck. You can do this by hand, gently pulling it to the left or right if it has drifted. Then, use your cloth to wipe any visible debris from under the edges of the belt. A clean surface helps the oil spread evenly.
Step 3: Apply the Silicone Lubricant
This is the main step. If your model requires you to lift the belt, use your tool to slightly loosen the rear roller bolts (usually on the back end). Just a quarter-turn is often enough.
- Lift the left side of the walking belt near the center of the deck.
- Apply a thin, 3-inch line of silicone lubricant directly onto the deck underneath. Don’t overdo it—about 1.5 ounces total is usually plenty.
- Repeat this process on the right side of the belt, applying another line.
- If your treadmill has lubrication ports, simply insert the tube nozzle into each port and apply the recommended amount.
Step 4: Spread the Lubricant
After applying the oil, you need to distribute it. Plug in the treadmill, secure the safety key, and start walking at a very slow speed (around 1-2 mph). Let the belt move for 2-3 minutes. This allows the silicone to spread evenly across the entire deck surface.
Step 5: Final Check and Tightening
Unplug the machine again. Check the belt alignment and recenter it if needed. If you loosened the rear roller bolts, now is the time to tighten them back to there original position. Finally, wipe off any excess lubricant that may have seeped out.
How Often Should You Oil It?
NordicTrack generally recommends lubricating your treadmill every 150 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, your usage matters alot. If you use your treadmill daily for running, you might need to oil it more frequently. A good rule of thumb is to check the belt’s movement every three months.
Signs Your Treadmill Needs Oiling
Don’t wait for the schedule if you notice these signs. They indicate increased friction and that it’s time for lubrication:
- The belt feels sticky or hesitates when you start walking.
- You hear a squeaking or rubbing noise from the deck area during use.
- The motor seems to strain or the console displays error codes related to motor or belt issues.
- You feel more resistance than usual when walking or running.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding these errors will keep your treadmill in top condition and prevent damage.
- Using the Wrong Lubricant: Petroleum-based sprays can damage the belt and deck. Stick to 100% silicone.
- Over-Lubricating: Too much oil can cause the belt to slip and attract more dust and dirt.
- Neglecting Belt Tension: A belt that’s too tight or too loose won’t run properly, even with oil. Check tension periodically.
- Forgetting to Clean: Always wipe the deck and belt before applying new lubricant to avoid grinding debris into the surface.
Troubleshooting After Oiling
If things don’t seem right after you’ve oiled the treadmill, here are a few quick fixes:
- Belt Slipping: You likely used too much oil. Wipe the excess from under the edges and run the belt at a slow speed to help distribute it. You may need to tighten the belt slightly.
- Still Noisy: The noise might be coming from the motor or rollers, not the deck. Check for obstructions and ensure all parts are secure.
- Belt Drifting: After oiling, the belt might need recentering. Adjust the rear roller bolts in tiny increments to realign it.
FAQ Section
Can I use any silicone lubricant on my NordicTrack?
It’s best to use the NordicTrack-branded lubricant or one that specifies it’s 100% silicone and safe for treadmill decks. Some additives in other silicones can cause problems.
How do I know if my treadmill is self-lubricating?
Most NordicTrack treadmills are not self-lubricating. Check your owner’s manual or the product specifications online. If it required an initial bottle of lubricant when you set it up, it needs regular oiling.
What happens if I never oil my treadmill?
Friction will increase dramatically. This causes excessive wear on the belt and deck, forces the motor to work harder (which can lead to premature failure), and creates more noise. It can void your warranty and lead to costly repairs.
Is there a difference between oiling and lubricating a treadmill?
No, these terms are used interchangeably in this context. We are always refering to applying 100% silicone lubricant to the deck.
Can I over tighten the walking belt?
Yes, over-tightening is a common mistake. A belt that’s too tight puts stress on the motor and rollers. It should have a little bit of lift (about 2-3 inches) when you pull up on it from the center.
Regular maintenance, including knowing how to oil your machine correctly, is the simplest way to extend it’s life. By following these steps every few months, you ensure a smoother, quieter, and more reliable workout experience for yourself. Always consulte your specific model’s manual for any unique instructions.