Proform Elliptical Clunking Noise

Proform ellipticals are a popular choice for home use. They are often used by people who want to get in shape and stay healthy. 

However, if you notice that your Proform elliptical is making a clunking noise, it can be very frustrating and distracting as you are no longer getting good workouts in.

In this article, we are reviewing some of the most common causes of Proform elliptical clunking noise, and then explaining a few of their solutions as well.

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

Why is Proform Making Clunking Noise? – Common Causes

A clunky Proform elliptical machine can be a real problem. It’s not only annoying for the person who is using it, but it can also be a distraction to your surroundings.

proform elliptical machine in my home gym setup

There are a few reasons why your Proform elliptical machine might be making this noise. One of the most common reasons are:

1. Loose Connection Bolts

Loose screws and bolts are the most common causes of squeaky elliptical machines. 

The elliptical bolts are usually tightened with a wrench, but if they are too loose, the bolt will just spin in place and not tighten the connection.  

It is recommended to tighten them regularly and apply some lubricant on moving parts to avoid this problem.

It also may just be something loose inside your machine that is causing the noise.

This can be done by checking if there are any loose bolts or screws on your Proform, especially the pedals and moving arms, and tightening them accordingly.

2. Collection of Dust

Another reason why your Proform elliptical may be making a clunking noise is that there may be debris or dirt stuck in between the pedals or on the bottom of the machine. 

Dust can be collected on any type of surface including an elliptical machine. It only takes a few days for dust to accumulate on a machine and make it clunk. 

This can cause an imbalance when you use it which will then cause noise to come from somewhere on your machine as you use it. 

The issue will even worsen if you don’t clean your equipment after each use, as then you are just adding more and more layers of dirt onto it.

3. Uneven Weight Distribution 

proform elliptical machine picture from my garage gym

A Proform elliptical machine should be set up on a level surface. The elliptical moving elements will be subjected to undue stress if the surface is uneven. This could result in a clunking sound.

It’s important you check the machine is situated on an even floor.

There’s also a chance the leveling pads at the bottom of your elliptical can be out of alignment.

Make sure they are all at the same level. If they are not, your elliptical can make a clunking noise due to internal components hitting each other. 

Try screwing/unscrewing the leveling feet until you’re sure your elliptical is level.

4. Lack of Grease 

One of the most common problems with ellipticals is when they lack the necessary lubrication.

Constant use will cause the rollers, gears, and joints to dry out. If this goes unchecked, they will eventually seize up and you may need to replace the machine. 

Regularly lubricating Proform elliptical will help prevent this from happening which can save you money in the long run.

How To Resolve Proform Elliptical Clunking Noise?

proform elliptical machine in my home gym setup

1. Tighten the Proform Moving Parts

A ‘clunking’ sound during your workout may be a sign that your Proform cross-trainer is in need of some maintenance. 

The problem could be as simple as a loose fitting screw or a worn out spring. If you tighten the parts that are loose, you can avoid expensive repairs and make your workouts more efficient. 

2. Replace The elliptical Broken Parts

The elliptical has many parts that can break and need to be replaced. If you find any part that is broken or no longer functioning as it should be, replace it. 

Step 1: Locate the noise.

The noise is made by the movement of parts in the machine. Usually, it is on the right side of the machine, near a platform support bracket or lever. 

If the noise is in the front, near the flywheel and handrails, then check that these areas have been lubricated.

Step 2: Inspect all parts. 

There are two main locations where you can find worn out parts: the bottom bracket area, and the crank arms.

It is also possible that a bearing has worn down and needs to be replaced. Make sure to apply some lubricant after you replace any.

3. Check the Flywheel Bearing

nordictrack elliptical machine picture from my home gym

Use a flat screwdriver to unseat the tabs that hold the front top cover in place. This will expose the flywheel and pedal arm connection points. 

Rotate the flywheel by hand and determine whether lubrication will accomplish the repairs. 

If the bearings are exposed, use a grease gun with an extension nozzle and lubricate both bearings with lithium grease. 

However, if the bearings are damaged or sealed, then proceed to do the following:

  1. Remove the front and side covers on the mainframe. Hold the flywheel with one hand and use a box wrench to loosen the bolts that secure the pedal arms at each side of the flywheel. 
  2. Pull the arms away from the flywheel and remove the bearings from each side.
  3. Replace the old bearings with new ones. 
  4. Test the bearings as before. Lubricate the exposed bearings with lithium grease and reinstall them. 

Reattach the pedal arms to the flywheel and replace the main frame covers and front top cover to complete the repairs.

4. Lubricate The Moving Parts

The first step to solving this issue is to identify where the noise is coming from. The most common locations are the pedals and the foot pads.

Detach the ends of the pedals from the crank axles. Spread a layer of machine grease over the crank axles, then reattach the ends of the pedals back.

Next, remove the bolts connecting the pedals to the swing arms. Detach the pedals from the arms, then spread a layer of machine grease over the axles on the swing arms.

Remove the bolts connecting the swing arms to the elliptical’s upright.

Detach the swing arms from the upright, then spread a layer of machine grease over the axles on the upright. Reattach the arms to the upright.

Just be careful when applying silicone oil to a machine, as it can affect the finish of the machine and leave a residue.

Next, apply a thin layer of marine grease to the ramps.

If you don’t have any grease handy, use a silicone-based lubricant.

You can use the leftover lubricant to oil up the rollers to ensure the smooth movement of your Proform elliptical. This action should correct any clunking or clicking noise your elliptical may be making.

5. Clean The Elliptical 

proform elliptical machine from my garage gym

Remove any dust or rust from the elliptical as this will also cause the clunking sound.

You should clean your elliptical machine to make sure that the parts don’t have any dirt or debris on them. 

To clean the elliptical, use a damp cloth and a small amount of mild soap. 

This will reduce the friction between the parts and make it easier to glide when you are working out.

Conclusion 

A clunky Proform elliptical machine can be a real problem. It’s not only annoying for the person who is using it, but it can also be a distraction to your surroundings.

A healthy, functioning elliptical machine should be largely silent. If you’re hearing a grinding noise or squeaking, it could be due to a few different things.

One of the most common reasons are lack of lubrication, loose connection bolts, or damaged parts.

Hopefully after today’s article you find the Proform clunking noise source and fix this issue.

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