How To Lubricate A Proform Elliptical?

Elliptical machines are a common alternative to treadmills as a form of cardiovascular exercise.

The best way to keep your Proform trainer in top running condition is by regularly lubricating it. 

Lubricating an elliptical is also something you should to stop Proform elliptical from squeaking, or when the tread becomes a bit rough when you are gliding on the machine.

In this article, we’ll go over how to lubricate Proform elliptical in a simple and easy to follow guide in order to make the lubrication process much easier to do.

Without further ado, let’s get right into it!

Types of Proform Elliptical Machines

For lubrication purposes, Proform elliptical trainers at their most basic level can be categorized into one of two major types. 

These characterizations are based upon the location of the flywheel.

1. Front wheel drive ellipticals

proform elliptical machine in my home gym setup

As the name suggests, Proform front drive ellipticals are the converse of rear drive models in nearly every way. 

This elliptical style places the flywheel in the front of the machine and roller tracks in the back, giving them a more traditional look.

Both the Pro HIIT H14 and Carbon E series present this elliptical style, as both of these machines have their motor centered on the front of the machine.

These ellipticals tend to have a more sophisticated and complex design, with more moving parts which make them more difficult to maintain.

These Proform front-wheel-drive elliptical machines may not be as comfortable as other back-wheel drive models because many are missing the pedals that create different angles for a smooth movement.

These Proform models also come with adjustable incline levels, while most other front drive cross trainers don’t.

2. Rear wheel drive ellipticals

life fitness elliptical machine in a white background

Proform rear drive elliptical may be the oldest design for elliptical trainers, but it’s still very effective and in wide use today. 

This design features a flywheel situated at the back of the machine.

Due to the position of the flywheel, rear drive ellipticals have the ability to provide a more natural and smooth range of motion because of the articulating pedals.

As a Proform rear drive elliptical, we find the Hybrid Trainer XT model which has a simpler design and fewer rollers and tracks, making its maintenance process more straightforward.

Additionally, due to the flywheel being positioned in the rear, the center of balance for this type of machine is located more toward the center. 

They also typically allow for longer, more natural strides.

How To Lubricate Proform Elliptical?  Step-By-Step Guide

It’s important to note your Proform elliptical can get dust and dirt in it, so a regular cleaning process to your machine must be applied. 

All you will need to successfully go through the lubrication process is a lubricant, a grease gun, and two soft, lint-free cloth.

While the placement and layout may vary between models in Proform’s elliptical range, they’ll always be in the same general location.

The following are general steps for how to lube Proform elliptical. 

  1. After you turn off Proform elliptical, begin by using one piece of the soft cloth to remove any dust or debris from the ramp and rollers. All you need to do is wipe the cloth over.
  2. Add a small amount of the included high-temperature lubricant to the second piece of cloth and wipe it over the Proform rails. Do the same on each roller, ensuring you only leave a thin coat of lubricant.
  3. Briefly turn on Proform elliptical and allow it to run slowly for a few steps to distribute the lubricant around any areas you couldn’t reach with the cloth.
  4. Next, remove the motor cover. Vacuum out any debris, being careful not to bring the vacuum cleaner nozzle too close to any circuit board.
  5. Now It is also time to find the lift motor screw and make sure it is lubricated with an approved grease.

What Is The Best Lubricant For Proform Elliptical?

There are two primary kinds of lubricant that you will be using to lubricate the sliding ramp and your elliptical rollers: silicone and grease.

Most often than not you are going to use a silicone spray lubrication as it is the easiest application on your elliptical.

Some Proform elliptical models come equipped with a high temperature lubricant.

Whichever lubricant you decide to use, just make sure that after you apply it, you wipe down the machine rail.

These are the best silicone and grease lubricants to consider using on your Proform elliptical in 2022:

Silicone Treadmill Belt Lubricant 

Silicone Treadmill Belt Lubricant is a non-toxic, odorless lubricant which has been formulated for a wide range of modern exercise equipment. 

It works great for home and heavy duty commercial treadmills and most elliptical trainers.

Regular lubrication reduces noise, extends the motor life, and makes a more natural and smooth range of motion.

Each 4 oz bottle of the lubricant contains approximately 4 applications, enough to protect your equipment for a full year.

This silicone lubricant is absolutely ideal for all elliptical and treadmill models to help you keep your exercise equipment in top running condition.

Super Lube Multi-Purpose Grease

Super Lube Grease is a patented synthetic, heavy-duty, multi-purpose lubricant.

With the addition of PTFE micro powdersPTFE lubricant is used for coating items such as cookware in PTFE) combined to form a premium lubricant that provides protection against friction, wear, rust and corrosion over higher levels of temperature.

Super Lube grease is absolutely one of the well known exercise equipment lubricant on today’s market.

Mobil 1 Synthetic Grease

Mobil 1 Synthetic Grease is an advanced full synthetic grease formulated with a proprietary blend of high-performance synthetic base stocks and a lithium complex soap thickener. 

The thickener system provides a high dropping point, while additives impart excellent extreme-pressure properties and resistance to water wash, rust and corrosion. 

The proprietary blend of high-performance synthetic base stocks gives reliable lubrication over wide temperature ranges.

Why a Proform Elliptical Needs To Be Oiled?

Elliptical machines, just like treadmills, need to be lubricated from time to time. 

proform elliptical machine from my garage gym

Proper lubrication of the machine will reduce wear and increase the longevity and functionality of the machine and reduce the need for costly repairs that can go up to 500$.

Lubricating your Proform cross trainer is also an essential part of maintenance when it comes to your home gym. 

An elliptical machine flywheel bearings primarily rely on oil to function properly. 

If your rower is used daily and not lubricated, then the bearings will get worn out and need to be replaced. 

Because of the high amount of friction the bearings experience, it’s important to lubricate your elliptical. 

Another reason to keep a lubricating routine is to extend the lifespan of your machine. 

If you don’t lubricate your crosstrainer, then the parts will wear down and become damaged. 

Therefore if you want your machine to last for years and to work properly, then you need to lubricate it every four to six months. 

How Often You Should Lubricate a Proform Elliptical Trainer?

a female athlete training on precor elliptical machine

Most ellipticals should be lubricated every six months, and more often if they produce a squeaking or scraping noise while in use.

Proform recommends that their elliptical machines need to be lubricated every four to six months.

One thing to keep in mind is that the longer you wait between lubrications, the more oil will get contaminated with dust and dirt. 

Conclusion

The best way to keep your elliptical in top running condition is by regularly lubricating it. 

Today’s guide will help you maintain your Proform elliptical machine and prevent many of the annoying problems people encounter due to improper or lack of lubrication.

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