Elliptical machines allow the user to perform an aerobic workout by simulating some of the movements involved in walking and cycling. These devices consist of a set of pedals and handlebars mounted on a base unit. As the pedals move, a drive belt installed inside the base unit turns a flywheel, which provides resistance when exercising. A console unit mounted on the elliptical's upright keeps track of the flywheel's rotations. This allows the device to calculate the simulated distance that the user has traveled during the workout.
Drive Belt
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Step 1
Remove the screws or bolts securing the ends of the pedals to the crank axles. Slide the ends of the pedals off the axles. Remove any screws or bolts securing the left and right disc shields to the base unit. Pull or pry the disc shields off the base unit and set them aside.
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Step 2
Remove any screws or bolts securing the left and right side shields to the base unit. Detach the side shields and set them aside. Examine the interior of the base unit and locate the drive belt.
Step 3
Pull the drive belt free of the crank pulley, flywheel and any other pulleys. Discard the old drive belt and install a new belt in its place. Turn the crank axles by hand to confirm that the belt will turn smoothly when the device is in use.
Lubrication
Step 1
Detach the ends of the pedals from the crank axles. Spread a layer of machine grease over the crank axles, then reattach the ends of the pedals.
Step 2
Remove the bolts connecting the pedals to the swing arms. Detach the pedals from the arms, then spread a layer of machine grease over the axles on the swing arms. On some models, the bolts may also serve as the axles. Reattach the pedals to the arms.
Step 3
Remove the bolts connecting the swing arms to the elliptical's upright. Detach the swing arms from the upright, then spread a layer of machine grease over the axles on the upright. Reattach the arms to the upright.
Console
Step 1
Remove the bolts or screws securing the console to the upright assembly. Lift the console and confirm that the cable connections are secure. Remove the cover from the console's battery bay and install a fresh set of batteries. Replace the battery cover.
Step 2
Detach the ends of the pedals from the crank axles. Remove the left and right disc shields and side shields. Inspect the interior of the base unit and locate the flywheel.
Step 3
Inspect the flywheel as it turns. Locate the magnet installed on the flywheel. Turn the flywheel until the magnet passes in front of the nearby reed switch. Loosen the screw securing the switch in place. Rotate the switch to reduce the gap between it and the magnet. Tighten the screw.
Step 4
Replace the left and right disc shields and side shields. Reattach the ends of the pedals to the crank axles.
Things You'll Need
Hex wrench
Phillips screwdriver
Replacement drive belt (optional)
Machine grease (optional)