How to Lubricate an Elliptical: 7 Easiest Steps (Explained)

Maintaining your elliptical machine is an important part of ensuring that it continues to operate smoothly and effectively. One important aspect of maintenance is lubrication, which helps to reduce friction and wear on the moving parts of the machine.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of lubricating your elliptical in 7 easy steps. By following these steps, you can help extend the life of your exercise equipment and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

7 Easiest Steps to Lubricate an Elliptical Machine

Step #1: Find out the moving parts

The very first thing you have to do is figure out where to lubricate. At that time, you have to look carefully at which parts create friction and move while performing an exercise. It’s important to lubricate every moving center; otherwise, over-friction could damage moving parts. 

Step #2: Open parts gently 

Here you have to do some technical work. Take your tools to remove bolts and screws to open the friction point. You must keep a sharp eye on bolts and screws at that point. Don’t mess down with screws and bolts. Otherwise, you will have trouble finding out the right screw and bolt exact moment. 

Step #3: Clean moving parts

The third step of greasing/lubricating the elliptical is cleaning the lubrication point. Many of us think cleaning well before lubrication isn’t so necessary. In my opinion, it’s one of the essential things in the lubrication process. If you don’t clean well before lubrication, the point could make noise and create additional friction because of dirt and sand. 

Step #4: Lubricate/Grease parts

After cleaning all the parts you want to work on, you have to choose where to use grease and a lubricant. Experts suggest using grease on parts that create moderate friction. For example, elliptical bearing. Parts that make high friction are advised to use a lubricant. In short, you can use lubricant in every position you want, but experts don’t recommend using grease everywhere. 

Step #5: Re-assemble lubricated parts 

It’s easy to open parts, but difficulties come when you have to reassemble them. To make this complex process more manageable, you can take photos or videos before opening parts. This trick helps a lot when someone forgets the way to assemble. 

Step #6: Tighten all parts

Tightening the bolts and screws is one of the most important things to do after lubrication. So many incidents could happen if you don’t tighten all the parts. Irritating noise, broken parts, and fall from machines due to function difficulties are the most common issue with un-tightened parts. 

Step #7: Take a trial exercise

After doing all the processes, the user must have a trial workout to ensure they did everything well. You can’t jump on it and use it usually at the beginning. It’s important to start slowly, and if it runs smoothly, then it’s ok. As lubrication isn’t a complicated process, users usually get success on it, but if you figure out something is wrong, contact a local expert.

Grease or Lubricant? Which One Should You Use? 

Grease works well on bearings that function at moderate speed. Normally, elliptical machines do not operate at an excessively high speed. So, if you find some bearing in an elliptical machine, you can go with grease, but if you don’t have grease, you can use a lubricant.

On the other hand, lubricant for elliptical performs better under high speed and extreme fiction. You can apply this oil to every moving part that creates friction. Applying lubricant is simple and easy, but you have to be careful when using it on an elliptical that functions with battery/electricity. As the lubricant is fluid, it can create damage to electrical parts. So you have to be more aware when you are lubricating parts near cables. Otherwise, you can lubricate any parts without any worries. 

The Bottom Line 

Lubricating your elliptical machine is a crucial part of maintaining its smooth operation and prolonging its lifespan. By following the 7 simple steps outlined in this article, you can easily keep your elliptical well-maintained and in top condition. By taking the time to lubricate your machine regularly, you can ensure that it performs at its best and provides a reliable, enjoyable workout experience.

Remember to gather all necessary tools and supplies, prepare your elliptical, clean it thoroughly, apply lubrication according to the manufacturer’s instructions, reassemble the machine, and test it for smooth operation. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to keep your elliptical running smoothly for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions