The honest answer is that it depends on your treadmill, so your owner’s manual comes first. Manufacturers set the schedule, and it varies. Some machines call for lubricant after a set number of hours or miles, some on a calendar schedule, and some use belts that are sold as needing little or none.
If you’ve lost the manual, you can usually find a copy online by searching for your model number. The number is typically on a sticker near the front of the frame or by the power switch.
Signs the belt may need lubricant
- The belt feels like it hesitates or drags when you step on it.
- The motor sounds like it’s working harder than it used to.
- You hear more squeaking or rubbing from under the belt.
- The machine trips a breaker or shuts off under load, though that can have other causes too.
You can also check by hand. With the treadmill unplugged, lift the edge of the belt and touch the top of the deck, as far toward the middle as you can reach. A deck with lubricant left on it usually feels a little slick. A completely dry deck may be due, if your manual calls for lube.
How to apply it
- Use only what the manual calls for. Most home treadmills use a silicone lubricant, but check yours. Don’t use WD-40, motor oil or household sprays, which can damage the belt and deck.
- Unplug the machine and loosen the belt if needed. Some models have enough slack to lift the belt without touching the bolts. If you loosen them, count your turns so you can put them back.
- Apply it under the belt, on the deck. Follow the amount and pattern in the manual, and keep it in the walking area.
- Spread it out. Plug the machine back in, then walk slowly for a few minutes to work it across the deck.
Too much is a problem too
More lubricant isn’t better. Extra lube can make the belt slip, attract dust and lint, and migrate to the rollers. If your belt started slipping right after you applied lube, this may be why. Follow the amount in the manual and wipe up anything that gets on the rollers or the floor.
Lube won’t fix everything
If the belt is frayed, worn smooth, or the deck has a rough or worn spot in the walking area, lubricant is only hiding the problem for a short time. That extra drag makes the motor and electronics work harder, so it’s worth getting looked at. If you’d rather have someone else keep up with it, see fitness equipment maintenance.
When to call
If you’ve lubricated the belt and it still drags, I can come to your house and find out why. See treadmill repair for what I work on, book a service call online to see your flat price, or text me at 850-733-8492 with your model number.
