How To Remove Flywheel From Treadmill Motor? Trust The Answer

One of the most important parts of your treadmill is the motor. The motor is a central hub of your treadmill and does most of the heavy lifting when your treadmill is in use. However, not all treadmill motors are created equal.

When it comes to home fitness equipment, treadmills are some of the most popular cardio equipment on the market.

Because treadmills fulfill different purposes for the user and can also offer many different features depending on the model. Users can walk, jog and run safely from the comfort of their own home.

Additionally, many treadmills also include heart rate monitors, incline adjustments, and video consoles that stream everything from exercise programs to third-party apps like Netflix or YouTube.

Because treadmills are so common and can offer so many features, they can also be expensive. Buying a treadmill is a big investment and it’s important to know what you’re investing in before you open your wallet.

One of the most important parts of your treadmill is the motor. The motor is a central hub of your treadmill and does most of the heavy lifting when your treadmill is in use. However, not all treadmill motors are created equal.

In this article, we will examine important details you need to know about treadmill motors while also debunking some myths.

In this article:

What is a treadmill motor?

As mentioned above, the treadmill motor is the central part of an electric treadmill that does most of the mechanical work.

It is responsible for the rotation of the belt and takes on the wear and tear from heavy contact with users. If the engine is weak or worn out, the belt will not move.

The motor is most commonly located in the front end of the treadmill, just near the edge of the treadmill and under the console.

Types of treadmill motors

There are two different types of motors found in treadmills:

DC motors (aka DC motors)

AC motors (also called AC motors)

DC powered motors

DC motors are most commonly found in treadmills built for home use. These motors convert direct electrical energy into mechanical energy.

DC motors tend to start slower than AC motors, but provide a consistent response to speed and incline adjustments. They’re also built with fewer internal parts than AC motors, which could save you some money if your motor needs to be replaced.

DC motors also tend to run quieter compared to AC motors.

AC motors

AC motors are electric motors that produce mechanical energy by using alternating current in combination with magnetism.

These types of motors are more commonly found in commercial treadmills and will generally start your treadmill at a higher speed than DC motors. While they start out stronger, you can still safely plug an AC motor treadmill directly into a home outlet.

Treadmill motor energy

The power of your treadmill motor is measured in horsepower (HP). Horsepower is a measure of the horsepower or the speed at which work is being done.

The general formula for horsepower can be defined as the force in pounds multiplied by the distance in feet and then divided by the time in minutes.

However, there are different types of horsepower, such as:

mechanical hp

Metric horsepower

Electric hp

boiler output

Hydraulic hp

With treadmills, expect your power rating to be labeled as mechanical or electric.

Rating systems the horsepower of treadmill motors

A common myth or misconception is that all treadmill motors are rated the same. However, this is not the case. Two different 3.0HP motors can give different results.

These rating systems can be divided into two categories:

Top performance

continuous use

Peak load refers to the highest power that the treadmill motor will achieve. Engines rated by their peak power are generally the weakest.

Continuous horsepower is defined as the power that can be sustained during your cardio workout.

Manufacturers can sometimes be misleading with their ratings, so it is very important to know the difference between peak and continuous use.

How much horsepower is necessary?

For a long-term return on investment, a 3.0 hp motor in your treadmill is best.

However, as a general rule, if you weigh over 200 pounds and plan to use your treadmill regularly, you should find a treadmill with a motor that provides an additional .5 horsepower.

Alternatively, if your treadmill isn’t used heavily or frequently, you can still get away with a lower HP.

In general, the amount of HP you need looks like this:

2.0 HP: A motor with this low power in continuous operation should only be used for walking.

2.5 HP: For joggers, a 2.5 HP motor can be sufficient in continuous operation.

3.0 HP: The recommended continuous horsepower for your treadmill if you intend to use it for running.

A common misconception is that you have to have a treadmill motor greater than 3.0 horsepower to run on it. That is not true! As long as you have a 3.0 horsepower continuous duty motor for your treadmill and weigh less than 200 pounds, that amount of horsepower will work.

revolutions per minute

Horsepower isn’t the only metric to look out for when reviewing the details of your treadmill motor. Revolutions per minute (RPM) tells you how much torque your engine has. Simply put, the amount of force required to rotate the belt.

If your engine isn’t producing enough torque, you will start to drag with the belt. When comparing treadmills, it’s best to look at the RPM values.

For example, a continuous duty motor revving over 8000 RPM means your motor is working too hard. This can ultimately reduce its lifespan.

It’s best to find a treadmill that spins under 5000 RPM. This still provides enough power to keep your treadmill running smoothly while increasing the longevity of your motor.

Factors affecting the engine

Another common misconception is that most problems with treadmill motors are that they simply burn out. While this can happen, it is extremely rare.

Of course, if your motor is of poor quality then there is a greater chance that it will burn out or need repairing, but that is not the case with high-quality treadmills.

Also, be sure to check your treadmill motor manufacturer’s warranty. Many well-known fitness brands offer longer warranties on higher quality motors.

The most common factors that wear out your engine the most over time are the following:

accumulation of dirt and dust

High resistance due to lack of lubrication

The use of extension cords, power rails and surge protectors

overuse

You should properly maintain your treadmill to increase the longevity of your motor. Neglect is the number one reason why your engine will not work properly.

Click here for a step-by-step guide on how to lubricate your treadmill.

You can also read more about how to properly maintain commercial fitness equipment and what expectations you should have for the lifespan of your fitness equipment.

Buy your treadmill from Akfit

Although there are several treadmills on the market, your choice ultimately comes down to preference. However, it can still be difficult to figure out which treadmill is best for you.

Luckily we’re here to help. Akfit is a Canadian fitness specialty store based in Sudbury, Ontario since 1989. We work closely with our local customers in Northern Ontario, the rest of Canada and beyond.

First, check out our top 5 best selling treadmills at Akfit.

If you are still not entirely sure which treadmill to invest in or which one will best suit your needs and be within your budget, we strongly encourage you to contact us.

Our fitness professionals share their expertise with you and provide you with everything you need to know about your future treadmill.

You can visit us in store at our Sudbury location or arrange a virtual meeting with us to discuss your fitness needs. We also specialize in commercial gym services, so don’t hesitate to contact us.

If you have already decided to buy a treadmill from us, you can also request delivery here. Our service doesn’t stop here either. Our experts not only offer you the delivery of your equipment, but can also install it and show you how to use it safely.

As scientists look for more ways to harness the power of nature to generate renewable energy, there is one source of energy that is being naturally burned and not being used every day: calories. (Skynesher/Getty Images)

As scientists look for more ways to harness the power of nature to generate renewable energy, there is one source of energy that is being naturally burned and not being used every day: calories.

SportsArt, a 42-year-old Taiwanese exercise equipment maker, is trying to change that by selling treadmills, elliptical trainers and bicycles that convert workouts into electricity and feed it back into the building via an outlet. The company recently unveiled the third generation of its treadmill to attendees at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

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“Imagine a hamster wheel,” says Ruben Mejia, SportsArt’s chief technology officer. “You are the hamster and the treadmill is the wheel. As soon as you start turning that wheel, we have a generator inside that starts producing electricity.”

Physical exertion is fueled by combustion reactions – small cellular ones. “It’s a shame that the energy isn’t used,” writes SportsArt in its patent applications.

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However, there is a size issue. The maximum power of the treadmill is 200 watts per hour. The average American uses about 28,000 watt hours per day. Maximum treadmill training at 200 watts for one hour would save 2.4 cents, assuming an electricity cost of $0.12 per kilowatt hour, plus the power that would have been consumed by a motorized machine.

The company’s bikes and elliptical trainers can move up to 250 watts. On the treadmill, a 147-pound person running about 8:20 miles would only put out 24 watts every 30 minutes, or enough for 4 hours of Wi-Fi. A 176-pound person jogging gently for 20 minutes could run a 60-watt light bulb long enough to light up the room while exercising.

Factoring in the electricity savings, SportsArt’s “Eco-Powr” machines could save nearly $900 per year with continuous use compared to treadmills from other brands, according to Mejia. Units cost about $10,000 each and are sold to gyms, assisted living centers, universities and beyond. Consumer models are in the works.

“There are a lot of gyms that are going green, and they’re going green in a variety of ways.”

With little use and a price five times higher than a conventional treadmill, why would a gym buy one of these? Being even a little bit green is increasingly a selling point in itself, so the reasoning.

“There are many gyms that are going green, and they’re going green in a variety of ways, whether it’s zero waste or net zero real estate,” Mejia said.

Paul Crane owns Eco-Gym, a “sustainable gym” in Brighton, England that uses SportsArt equipment. In the past, the facility reduced fees based in part on how much energy members generate while exercising. He said members “definitely feel motivated and committed to improving their own health and that of the planet.” Other customers are boutique gyms, which can charge more for amenities like power-generating equipment that aren’t about saving energy, but more about making a mark.

Getting to the gym is difficult enough for busy people. Being able to measure one’s power output can be that extra mental stimulus or trigger people need to get moving, even if it “just makes people feel like they’re burning off energy and seeing some results.” said Dan Ariely, a psychologist, professor of behavioral economics at Duke University and author.

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Conventional treadmills have motors that set the belt in motion once the workout begins. This costs electricity, as does the electronic training display. The SportsArt treadmill has no motor. It is initially powered by gravity. Training begins when a brake on the band is released. The unit is set at a 4-degree angle relative to the ground, just enough for the belt — which is actually a mat of horizontal slats that roll on ball bearings to reduce friction — to slide under the weight of the runner or walker slides behind. As the feet kick forward, the belt spins pulleys that capture the movement and convert it into electricity.

A microinverter, a device that regulates the flow of electricity, converts it into electricity that powers the home or building and shoots it back into the outlet. The modest extra power goes where it’s needed first: near electronics that share the same outlet, or deeper into the building. At least for now, the current cannot flow through the circuit board, out of the structure, and onto the grid.

Because the machines generate the most energy during higher-intensity workouts, the amount of calories burned doesn’t necessarily translate into performance. Mejia said that while you can burn a lot of calories by taking a three-hour walk at 3 miles per hour, “you’re not producing a lot of electricity.”

How to fix common treadmill problems

We all know that treadmills are a great addition to a home gym. They provide an effective and relatively safe cardiovascular workout. Like most exercise equipment, a treadmill can occasionally malfunction, especially if you use it frequently. Treadmills come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and features – but there are several key issues that are common to most types of treadmills. Timeliness is key. You can minimize damage and downtime if you act quickly. Learn how to repair a treadmill with these effective general treadmill repair tips.

Irregular speed

There may be a problem with your device if your running speed varies. Start by checking the owner’s manual for the recommended speed setting. Set the machine to the recommended setting, but do not get on. Watch the treadmill for a few minutes to see if the belt is binding. This is often a sign that you need a new belt. If the machine shuts down, there may be a problem with the motor, or the machine may have a bad electrical circuit.

Slipping belt

If you experience a slipping sensation when using your treadmill, the treadmill may require minor repairs. To resolve treadmill issues related to slippage, align and tighten the running belt. Straps can slip if there is too much friction or if the strap is overtightened. To check if the belt is too tight, lift it in the middle. There should be a gap of about two to three inches. If not, the strap is probably too tight.

no screen

If you’re having problems with the console display, the solution is usually relatively simple. To repair the treadmill console displays, check the length of the power cord and exposed wires. Worn batteries or pinched cables must be replaced. Treadmill repairs involving a magnetic flywheel pickup involve a thorough investigation. The magnet may have fallen off and needs to be replaced. If the console becomes static, the circuit breaker may need to be reset. Unplug the power cord for 60 seconds to resolve this issue.

Burning smell

If you notice a burning smell coming from the treadmill, it could indicate something serious. Turn off the treadmill immediately and unplug the power cord from the outlet. Common causes of a burning smell from a treadmill include friction between the deck and back, or a short in the wiring, electronics, or motor. These problems could potentially cause a fire, requiring immediate treadmill repair.

Engine not working

Fixing a malfunctioning treadmill motor can be one of the more expensive treadmill repairs an owner will encounter. The motor may need to be replaced if it runs at full speed, cannot be adjusted, and continues to function poorly or not at all. Treadmills that turn on at full speed often experience problems with failed circuits, leading to safety issues. Professional help may be required to repair or replace the circuit or motor.

Heated belt

Too much friction on the treadmill can cause it to overheat and not run properly. Treadmills must be lubricated to limit friction between the platform and the belt. If the friction increases to a certain point, the machine will shut down automatically. This may be the cause of the machine suddenly stopping working. Try lubricating the belt. Ultimately, it may need to be replaced.

It is common to encounter some problems while learning how to repair a treadmill. Although the above problems are quite common, the solution is not always easy. Treadmill parts may need to be completely replaced before the machine can be used again. Learning how to properly attach a treadmill is important to avoid injury and damage to the equipment. Troubleshooting the treadmill can help identify the point of failure within the machine. This also gives you the option of repairing or replacing the part yourself or with the help of a qualified repair technician.

Didn’t find what you’re looking for here? Check out the treadmill buyer’s guide for more useful information.

Woman sitting on the edge of her treadmill Credit: Siri Stafford/Photodisc/Getty Images

While using a treadmill is a great way to burn calories, a burnt smell is a sign that your machine needs servicing. Thorough troubleshooting of the main machine components must be performed. Disconnect the machine from the power source before performing such tasks. Follow the maintenance guidelines provided by your treadmill manufacturer to reduce the risk of equipment malfunction.

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maintenance of the engine

The engine is a common source of a burning smell in a treadmill. Over time, the engine can become clogged with dirt, hair, and other debris. Unplug the machine and remove the motor cover as instructed in your owner’s manual. Use compressed air and a vacuum to clean the motor and fan blades. On cheaper treadmill models, beware of excessive friction, which can cause the cardboard components in the motor to overheat and smolder.

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Check the deck

Proper maintenance of your treadmill’s treadmill and deck can reduce the amount of friction and static electricity your machine generates. After cleaning your treadmill motor, clean the belt, deck, and underside of the machine. If your treadmill model recommends it, lubricate the belt and tread. If your treadmill or deck system has been damaged or appears worn, replace the parts by following your treadmill manufacturer’s guidelines.

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Check for electrical shorts

If your motor, belt, and deck appear to be in good condition, the burning smell may be caused by an electrical short in your treadmill’s motor, console, or wiring. Excessive static electricity can cause your treadmill’s electrical components to malfunction. Place your treadmill on a mat to absorb friction and catch debris before it enters the motor. If you suspect an electrical short, consult an electrician or experienced treadmill repair person

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Troubleshooting Precautions

A burning smell coming from your treadmill could be a minor problem that you can fix yourself, or it could be a major repair that needs to be performed by a professional service technician. Always follow the troubleshooting guidelines provided by your treadmill manufacturer. If you cannot determine the source of the burning smell, discontinue use until the treadmill can be serviced by a knowledgeable technician.

Since you can use them while watching TV, treadmills are a fantastic option for exercising at home. Nevertheless, this kind of

exercise equipment

is not cheap and you really want your device to last a long time. But how long do treadmills last? Read on to find out what the average lifespan of a treadmill is and how to choose the right one for you.

I had a Janome DB-J706 I found at the junkyard with no clutch motor or table for $15 and the Lifestyler 8.0 with a 1.5hp motor was on the market for free. I couldn’t tell if the machine worked without a motor and I didn’t want to spend a lot trying to find out. It was a huge hit and after timing the shuttle and replacing the tensioner with one I salvaged an old serger, it sews beautifully and I sew through 2 layers of TM (treadmill) rubberized canvas belting like butter. I also use Spectra spider wire fishing line as thread.

Originally, the sewing machine ran in a special workbench with a special clutch motor. The clutch motor runs all the time and a linkage-mounted foot pedal engages a friction clutch. The whole setup takes up a lot of space, is heavy and clutch motors are expensive and delicate and weren’t with me anyway. I built my new sewing machine base using parts from the TM tubular frame.

The TM’s square tubing is fairly heavy gauge, mild steel, and easily welded after you’ve sanded or sanded down any plastic powder coating or paint. I cut down the existing motor mount and welded it to my new sewing machine frame base and used a piece of fully threaded nut adjustable nut to push the motor away from the frame and tension the original belt and motor pulley. Note the pulley welded to the shaft…had to reverse the polarity which of course wanted the left hand pulley to thread out…a problem easily fixed. As you can see I also sawed off the flywheel. Can’t have all that sluggishness that causes the machine to keep sewing. This hack also requires lowering the minimum speed setting on the TM controller and the maximum setting. Treadmills don’t have to stop at a dime like sewing machines do. With these adjustments, the machine was responsive enough to sew one stitch at a time, or full speed ahead and still managed to stop in a stitch or two. As you can see I also used the original TM pulley by 3D printing an adapter that connected it to the sewing machine drive shaft.

The controller and power board fit snugly in a plastic case. The wire harness that went to the original TM controller only had 8 or 10 wires, but only 2 wires were needed. When shorted out, they closed the relay that provided the AC power. The original TM digital board that controlled speed was scrapped and controlled directly from the main control board, using 3 wires and a 10K him slide potentiometer instead. The speed control foot I found at the thrift store was for a thyristor based AC sewing machine. While the circuitry was useless and the slide potentiometer unusable, I was able to piggyback and epoxidize a 10k ohm slide potentiometer right next to the original to wire it to my speed control control board. The digital displays really put people off when trying to incorporate TM controllers into their project. But if you look at the main controller there are usually 3 tabs that connect to a POT and in this case a 10K ohm worked great.

One thing this foot pedal had was a micro switch built into the circuit that could be used to incorporate dynamic breaking by inserting a resistor across the DC motor when you release your foot…this might help with one single stitch without stopping I need to lower the min setting on the controller and might be my next endeavor but at the moment the torque, although greatly reduced, is far more torque than the sewing machine requires.

Everything you need to know about treadmills

Whether you train at home or at the gym, treadmills are seemingly ubiquitous.

If you are green in the world of fitness, a treadmill is a great choice for you to start your physical training program.

However, when it comes to buying a treadmill, the huge selection and variety can be confusing for shoppers.

But rest assured – this guide will answer all your questions about the what, why and how of a treadmill!

A home treadmill can be a great investment as it gives you more exercise options when you can’t go to the gym or outside. Using a treadmill in a gym is one thing, but choosing a treadmill for your home is another thing. A good treadmill is expensive, and buying a treadmill doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll use it regularly.

Before you decide to buy a treadmill, consider these factors:

Budget: how much do you want to spend?

: How much do you want to spend? Extras: Consider program options, heart rate monitors, and extra features.

: Consider program options, heart rate monitors, and additional features. Users: How many people will use it and how often?

: How many people will use it and how often? Space: How much space do you have? Should You Get a Collapsible Treadmill?

: How much space do you have? Should You Get a Collapsible Treadmill? Usage: How will you use it? Running puts more strain on the machine than walking and requires a longer strap for longer strides.

1:22 Watch now: 6 things to know before buying a treadmill

Cost of treadmill at home

Your budget is probably the most important consideration when buying any home fitness equipment, especially a treadmill this large and expensive. It’s important to get the highest quality treadmill you can afford. A good treadmill is comfortable, quiet, easy to use, and lasts a long time.

If you want a durable treadmill, you’ll likely spend at least $1,000, although spends between $1,500 and $3,000 offer more stability, better motors, and more workout options. If you have two or more users in your household, it’s a good idea to look at models that cost at least $1,500.

There are some mediocre models that fall under $1,000, but keep in mind that these may not last as long, especially for runners or if you have multiple people on the treadmill.

If you are on a budget, consider purchasing a slightly used or refurbished treadmill. You can often buy these from previous owners as well as at some stores that sell used gym equipment.

Horsepower of the treadmill motor

The horsepower delivered by the drive motor directly affects the quality of your treadmill and how your workout feels. Figuring out horsepower and engine specs can be confusing.

To simplify, look for a motor with at least 1.5 hp continuous power (CHP). If you plan to run on treadmill frequently, you’d better choose 2.5~3.0 CHP. Depending on the weight, you will also need a more powerful motor.

minimum specifications

Other things to look for are:

Belt size: For running, the belt should be at least 48 inches long and 18 inches wide. If you are over 6 feet tall you will need at least a 52″ belt for walking and a 54″ belt for running.

: For running, the belt should be at least 48 inches long and 18 inches wide. If you are over 6 feet tall you will need at least a 52″ belt for walking and a 54″ belt for running. Control panel: It should be within reach and easy to use.

: It should be within reach and easy to use. Cushioning: The running bed should absorb shock and the running belt should not move with every step.

: The running bed should absorb shock and the belt should not move with every step. Incline: Get a treadmill with an incline of up to 10 percent or more. If the treadmill has an incline function, this is also valuable for better simulating outdoor running conditions.

: Get a treadmill with an incline of up to 10 percent or more. If the treadmill has an incline function, this is also valuable for better simulating outdoor running conditions. Maximum weight: This is a consideration if you are a taller person, and it is also an indication of the treadmill’s sturdiness. Look at the max user weight (which is optimistic) and subtract about 50 pounds to get a realistic number.

: This is a consideration if you are a taller person, and it is also an indication of the treadmill’s sturdiness. Look at the max user weight (which is optimistic) and subtract about 50 pounds to get a realistic number. Speed: If you plan to run, get a treadmill that can go up to 10 mph or more.

: If you plan on running, get a treadmill that can go up to 10 mph or more. Stability: The treadmill should not wobble when running or walking and the frame should remain stable.

Space and foldable treadmills

A treadmill looks a lot smaller in a store than it does in your home, so be sure to measure your space before buying. A folding treadmill might seem like a good option, but it still takes up space when folded.

Other considerations are that some models are much easier to fold, unfold and move. You may have to tip a heavy treadmill back onto its wheels to move it, which can be challenging. Test this in store so you know it will work in your training space.

Treadmill Extras

Before you buy a treadmill, think about what you want. Before you go shopping, ask yourself a few questions like:

Can you service a treadmill?

Would you like running or walking programs to be included?

Would you like a heart rate monitor included?

Would you like to be able to connect your treadmill to apps or websites like ifit.com for new workouts?

Should both incline and decline simulate both uphill and downhill?

Do you need a folding treadmill or do you have enough space for a regular treadmill?

What is the most important feature you want in a treadmill?

Try before you buy

You may not be able to find all of your treadmill choices at local exercise shops, but it pays to do some research and try as many treadmills as possible. Make a list of treadmills you are interested in and call local sporting goods stores to see if they are available locally.

Spend at least 10 minutes on each treadmill. Make sure it’s quiet and doesn’t shake even when it’s running. When you’re there, see where the cup holder is. Is there a place for your music player or cell phone? Can you add a bookshelf?

Warranty, delivery and assembly of the treadmill

The manufacturer’s warranty often gives you important information about the quality of the treadmill. Look out for a lifetime warranty on the frame and motor, or at least 10 years. Electronics should have a 5 year warranty. Parts and labor should have a 2 year warranty.

How do you get the treadmill into your home? Shipping costs can be significant if not included in the purchase price. Also consider how you will be moving the treadmill from your front door to your designated exercise area and if this is included or will it incur an additional cost. New treadmills usually require some assembly and you should see if this is included or requires a separate fee.

using your treadmill

Once you bring your treadmill home, you have many options to try out the different programs and develop a routine. Treadmill workouts get pretty boring if you do the same thing all the time. Be sure to take the time to explore all the variations so your new treadmill doesn’t sit in the corner and become a clothes rack.