How to Lubricate the Deck of a Treadmill

Last Updated: November 30, 2021

It is important to lubricate your treadmill deck every six months or on average every 180 hours of use. Otherwise, it will cause friction between the belt and the deck and it will overwork the motor. Here are some easy steps to preventing this problem.

Steps

1
Unplug your treadmill machine for safety precautions.^{[1]
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- You will need to access the deck and this can be achieved by lifting the belt on the treadmill up with your fingers, or you could get somebody to help you out with this.
2
Spread a straight line of treadmill lubricant which may be listed in the manual when purchased, down the side of the deck. Use enough to spread across about six inches of the belts.^{[2]
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3
Rub it in a little but don't work it into the belt too much as it will dry the lubricant.
4
Repeat on the other side.^{[3]
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5
Put back together and turn on.^{[4]
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6
Let the machine run for about 5 minutes on a slow setting to spread the lubricant around. Walk on the treadmill to help spread the lubricant.^{[5]
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Community Q&A

Question

Is this silicone the same used for fixing a glass pane?

Community Answer

No. The silicon used for glass is silicon rubber. You need to use silicon oil.
Question

Is a silicone spray alright to use?

Community Answer

Yes, it is. I recommend getting one with a low pH so the machine does not rust.
Question

Can I use any silicone lube gel to lube a treadmill deck?

Community Answer

Silicone is a synthetic substance that is found in many products. Lubrication is just one of many uses for silicone. Most fitness equipment manufacturers recommend using 100 percent silicone to lubricate the walking belt on a treadmill.