How, Why, When and Where to Lubricate an Elliptical?

Many people don’t understand that elliptical parts, just like treadmill parts, need to be lubricated from time to time. Proper lubrication of the machine will reduce wear, increase its longevity and functionality, and reduce the need for costly repairs. It will also reduce noise and jerks in the machine’s ellipse motion. One problem with ellipticals, unlike treadmill repair, is that the lubrication points are not always self-evident, and the types of lubricants are not as evident as well. We will discuss lubricating the different types of ellipticals, what to lubricate and what not to, and what types of lubricants should be used.

For lubrication purposes, there are two types: those with elliptical wheels and ramps and those without. If you have a ramp and wheel system on your elliptical, that is, wheels, and roll back and forth across a steel or aluminum ramp, you will need to lubricate this every 4 to 6 months with liquid silicone. Make sure that you clean the ramp before each lubrication with a dry, clean cloth. This will remove the dirt and dust that will certainly build up in the wheel channel on the ramp. If you leave the dirt, it will cause pitting in the wheels over time and cause the wheel to literally fall to pieces. Make sure that you don’t use WD-40 or any other caustic agent to lubricate the ramp and wheels. First, they aren’t lubricants, and second, they will cause the wheels to fail quickly and also ruin the ramp in the process. Just remember that lubricating with WD-40 means an eventual minimum of $500 for repair to the elliptical.

For those ellipticals that don’t have a ramp and wheel system, it is more difficult to determine the points for lubrication. Some will have wheels that roll over a steel bar, which will have to be lubricated with liquid silicone. All of these machines will have bushings, mainly oil-impregnated. These bushings don’t typically need lubrication regularly. However, they do have a tendency to squeak at certain points in their lifecycle. When this happens, lithium grease will take care of the squeaking issues with them. Most ellipticals have sealed bearings in their rotation points. These bearings never need lubrication, and don’t attempt to lubricate them. Breaking the seals on the bearings will ruin them. Some ellipticals use unsealed bearings. First, these ellipticals are cheap, so lubricating these machines is really only prolonging the inevitable demise of the crappy machine, so I recommend not greasing these bearings as well.

The final thing for elliptical maintenance that I recommend people do is not strictly lubricate the machine. All ellipticals have a large amount of Poly-V or A-shaped belting inside of them. These elliptical belts will wear dry and crack over time. Applying belt dressing, available on our website and in hardware stores, will increase the lifetime of the belts and prevent drying and squeaking of the belts. I hope this blog post will help you maintain your ellipticals and prevent many of the annoying problems people have with them due to improper or lack of lubrication.

How to lubricate an Elliptical?

Lubricate the ramp every 4-6 months with liquid silicone. All of these machines will have bushings, mainly oil-impregnated. These bushings don’t typically need lubrication regularly; however, they do tend to squeak at certain points in their lifecycle. When this happens, lithium grease will take care of the squeaking issues with them.

Step-by-step instructions on how to lubricate the different parts. This could include:

1. Access the Ramp and Wheel System

To begin, ensure your elliptical is unplugged to avoid electrical issues. any accidental starts. Remove the protective covers to expose the ramp and wheel system. If you’re unsure how to do this, consult your user manual for detailed instructions.

2. Clean before lubing

Clean the ramp with a dry, clean cloth to remove any dust or dirt. Avoid using WD-40 or other caustic agents, as they can damage your machine.

3. Identify Bushings

Bushings are typically oil-impregnated and may require lubrication if they start to squeak. Apply lithium grease to these areas to resolve any noise issues.

Can I use WD-40 on an Elliptical?

Make sure that you don’t use WD-40 or any other caustic agent to lubricate the ramp and wheels. First, they aren’t lubricants, and second, they will cause the wheels to fail quickly and also ruin the ramp in the process. Just remember that lubricating with WD-40 means an eventual minimum of $500 for repair to the elliptical.

How often to lubricate an Elliptical?

Lubrication of your elliptical is essential to ensure smooth operation and prolong its lifespan:

Monthly Checks

Make it a monthly habit to inspect your elliptical machine for lubrication needs. This proactive approach helps catch early signs of wear or dryness, ensuring optimal performance and longevity for your equipment.

Usage Frequency

Using the elliptical regularly, whether daily or several times a week, necessitates more frequent checks and lubrication. Consistent use can accelerate lubrication wear, so stay proactive to ensure optimal performance!

Manufacturer Guidelines

Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for tailored recommendations. These documents are invaluable resources, offering expert advice specific to your model, ensuring optimal performance and longevity for your equipment.

Auditory Cues

Listen closely for any squeaking or grinding noises when operating machinery. These unsettling sounds often signal the need for lubrication, which is crucial to maintaining optimal performance and extending equipment lifespan.

Visual Inspection

Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the machine’s moving parts to spot any visible signs of dryness or dust buildup, as these indicators may suggest it’s time for some essential lubrication.

Annual Maintenance

While your machine may appear to be operating flawlessly, conducting a comprehensive lubrication check at least once a year is crucial. This proactive step ensures optimal performance and extends its lifespan effectively.

What type of Lubricant to use on an Elliptical?

Liquid silicone is used for the ramp, and lithium grease is used to minimize squeaking at rotation points. Please have a look at the Elliptical Care Kit in our catalog to maintain an elliptical.

Should I clean my ramp before lubricating it?

Make sure that you clean the ramp before each lubrication with a dry, clean cloth. This will remove the dirt and dust that will certainly build up in the wheel channel on the ramp. If you leave the dirt, it will cause pitting in the wheels over time and cause the wheel to literally fall to pieces.

Safety Precautions

Practicing proper safety precautions during lubrication will help ensure the longevity and safe operation of your elliptical:

1. Unplug the Elliptical Trainer:

Before performing any maintenance on your elliptical trainer, always unplug it from the power source. This simple step is crucial for preventing electric shocks and ensuring safety.

2. Read the Manual:

For tailored guidance on your elliptical model, consult the user manual to discover its unique maintenance needs and ensure your machine operates at peak performance!

3. Use the Right Tools and Lubricants:

To protect your machine from damage, always use the manufacturer’s recommended tools and lubricants. Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your equipment.

4. Work in a Clean Area:

For safety and efficiency, always conduct maintenance in a clean, well-lit space. This helps prevent accidents and ensures that small parts don’t get lost or overlooked.

5. Wear Safety Gear:

For optimal safety, always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling lubricants. This precaution helps shield you from harmful spills and flying debris, ensuring your well-being.

Troubleshooting Tips

If lubrication doesn’t resolve the issue entirely, there may be other underlying problems with your elliptical. Here are some steps to take:

Check for worn-out parts

Inspect the machine for worn-out or damaged parts such as pedals, belts, or resistance mechanisms. These may need to be replaced to restore smooth operation.

Tighten loose bolts and screws

Sometimes, noise and poor performance are due to loose bolts and screws. Inspect and tighten all fasteners securely.

Examine electrical components

If your elliptical has electronic features, check the wiring and connections for any signs of wear or damage that could affect performance.

Contact a professional

If you are unable to identify or fix the problem, it may be time to contact a professional technician for a more thorough assessment and repair. Our team of experts is committed to providing personalized advice and support tailored to your specific needs.