How to Fix a Treadmill Belt That Is Not Centered?

Treadmill belts can sometimes shift off center but can easily be set back on track.

Treadmills provide the benefits of a running or walking workout from the comfort of your home. The walking belt runs along a deck to allow you to walk or run in place. The belt is typically centered on the walking deck at the factory, but occasionally the belt tension is too loose or too tight, causing the belt to shift. Centering the treadmill's walking belt is a simple task.

Instructions

1. Remove the console key and disconnect the treadmill's power cord.

2. Pick up the edges of the belt at the center of the walking deck. Do this gently and don't force the belt up. It should lift 2 to 3 inches from the walking platform if the belt has proper tension. If the belt doesn't lift to at least 2 inches, it is too tight and should be loosened. If it lifts more than 3 inches it's too loose and should be tightened.

3. Tighten the walking belt tension by inserting the hex key provided with your treadmill into the roller bolts located on the back of the walking deck and turning both bolts one-quarter turn clockwise.

4. Loosen the tension in the walking belt by turning both rear roller bolts one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

5. Pick up the edges of the belt once more to check the tension.

6. Continue turning the bolts in one-quarter-turn increments until you achieve the right tension.

7. Plug the treadmill in again and re-insert the key into the console.

8. Allow the treadmill to run on its lowest speed for a few minutes to establish which way it has moved off center.

9. Remove the key again and disconnect the power cord.

10. Turn the left roller bolt one-half turn clockwise, using the hex key provided if the walking belt has moved to the left.

11. Turn the left roller bolt counterclockwise one-half turn if the walking belt has moved to the right. On some treadmills you will have to turn the right rear roller bolt if it has moved right. If the left bolt will not turn counterclockwise, don't force it. Try turning the right bolt instead.

12. Plug the treadmill in once more and insert the console key.

13. Set the treadmill at its lowest speed and watch it run for a few minutes to ensure the belt is adjusted properly.

References

• Nordictrack C2000 User's Manual
• Academy.com: Pro-Form 400X User's Manual Page 26