How do I Troubleshoot the Schwinn 230 Bike?

Troubleshoot a Scwhinn 230 recumbent bike.

The Schwinn 230 recumbent bike is an indoor exercise machine intended for home use or at the gym. It features a heart rate (HR) monitoring system, with a console and chest strap, as well as a variety of built-in work out programs. The bike is made by Nautilus and comes with a booklet that explains the step-by-step assembly of the unit. Sometimes glitches can occur and there are a few basic trouble-shooting steps you can take before contacting Schwinn to have any parts replaced.

Things You'll Need

• Allen wrench
• volt meter

Instructions

1. Check that the unit is plugged into a wall socket that is operating. See that the power cable to the unit is secure and undamaged. If any wires are cut or crimped, replace them as necessary. The small latch on the connector must line up and snap into place. Check that the HR ( Heart Rate) cable is securely connected at the console.

2. Apply a conductive electrode cream to the hand sensors. This will help with calloused or dried out hands. The cream can be purchased online or at a fitness store. Check the heart rate chest strap. See that it is against the skin and the area is moist for the HR to register.

3. Move the unit away from interference such as television sets and microwaves. If the HR monitor still does not work, you may need to replace the strap and the console.

4. Remove the flywheel shroud. Check to see that there is a magnet in place on the flywheel. If not, this could be affecting the speed or RPM reading. If there is no magnet, you may need to have Schwinn replace the flywheel or the entire base unit.

5. Reset the unit if the console shuts off and enters "sleep" mode during use. Unplug the unit from the wall for three minutes. Reconnect the unit, wait for the console to power up and press the "reset" button.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace the console if it is damaged or cracked.

• If all the connections are OK and there is only a partial display on the console, replace the computer.

• If the unit rocks during use, check the leveler adjustment. Turn feet in or out to raise or lower.

• Check to be sure the adjustment pin is locked into the seat post adjustment holes if the seat post feels loose.

• Use conductive creams such as Signa Creme or a similar brand for lubricating the hand sensors.

• If the unit does not turn on and there is no display on the console, disconnect the wire harness from the back of the computer. Make sure there is power to the unit. Use a volt meter to check that there is power to the computer. The voltage between pins 1 and 3 should be within 9-14VDC. This corresponds to the purple (pin 1) and pink (pin 3) pins.

References

• Scwhinn Fitness: Schwinn Retail Bike Service Manual