Recently, my friend bought a used Sole treadmill. But, its incline was not working and calibrating. An error was displayed every time she tried to decline the machine. Even bypassing the incline could not help.
It worked perfectly for a few seconds and then the problem returned again. She discussed the matter with me. Because I work with exercise machines and know how to fix them.
Now, it was my duty to find a solution. I personally went to her home and troubleshot her Sole treadmill.
Fortunately, my remedies worked and she is happy now. Here, I would share all the steps to fix the incline error. This guide is applicable to all models of the Sole treadmills.
Tip#1. Restart Your Sole
Restarting can also help fix the issue. Maybe a temporary software glitch is a reason. It can be removed by a simple restart. Here is how to do it;
- Turn OFF your Sole treadmill by pressing the power button and unplugging it from the power outlet.
- Remove the safety key. Leave it switched OFF for 1-5 minutes.
- Now, turn the machine ON by switching ON the power supply.
- Reinsert the safety key. Next, toggle the power switch to the “ON” position.
- The ON/OFF button is located at the front below the motor hood.
- Finally, try to start the incline and it will work.
Tip#2. Recalibrate the Incline
Recalibration can fix the issue. Here is the step-by-step process;
- Turn ON your machine and remove the safety key.
- Press and hold the “Start” and “Fast/Speed Up” buttons. Meanwhile, insert the safety key again.
- Release both buttons when the screen comes ON and shows “Factory settings”. Click the “Enter” button.
- Now, you have to customize the settings. Adjust wheel size diameter at 2.30 and press “Enter”.
- The minimum speed should be .5 and the maximum should be 12.0.
- Select maximum elevation at 15. Be sure to press “Enter” after each step.
- Turn ON the “Grade Return” and then press the “Stop” button.
- Finally, press the “Start” button to initiate the calibration process.
- Do not stand on the machine when the process is going on.
Tip#3. Reset Your Sole Treadmill
Try the restart twice or thrice. If it does not improve, try a reset. The method may vary slightly for other models. You should confirm from the user manual. Here is how to reset a Sole F63.
- Turn ON your treadmill. Press and hold the “Speed Up” button.
- Release the button when “Maintenance” appears on the screen.
- Now, press “Enter” and keep holding the “Up” button.
- The screen will display “Lube Message Reset”. Release the buttons at this moment.
- The reset will take some time to complete. Wait patiently and avoid using your machine during this time.
Tip#4. Check the Control
The incline of your machine is connected to the PCB. A wire connects the two parts. The machine fails to work if the wire is disconnected, loose, or broken. Hence, you have to check the wire connection.
Find the incline control wires. Follow the wires to the PCB. Make sure they are attached properly and in the right place. You can understand this from the user manual.
Tip#5. Lubricate Your Treadmill
Too much friction can also jam the incline. Either it fails to work at all or stuck at the highest or lowest position. Use a recommended lubricant.
Raise the deck and lubricate the crucial parts including the belt. Be sure to power OFF your machine first. Switch it ON after lubrication. Hopefully, it will start working.
Tip#6. Test Incline Motor
The next thing to check is the incline motor. Again see the user manual and locate the motor. Use a Multimeter to test voltage. If no voltage is detected, the motor or gearbox needs to be repaired.
Moreover, the control board relay can be defective. There is more than one relay, locate and inspect them.
Changing a bad relay can fix the machine. Please take help from a professional technician if you cannot understand these technicalities.
Tip#7. Check the Speed Sensor
Bas speed sensors can also lead to such issues. So, you should check it. Access the motherboard of your machine. Turn ON the power supply. Observe the LED whether is blinking or not.
If the LED is not illuminated, the sensors are bad. Remove the motor cover by loosening the screws. Locate the speed sensor next to the front roller pulley.
The sensor should be touching the magnet that is attached to the pulley. If you notice any disconnection, realign the sensor.
Tip#8. Replace the Belt
The belt should work well after lubrication. Otherwise, it is broken or defective. A broken belt is one of the most common reasons your incline is not working.
Because the belt is responsible for moving the machine. If it is broken, the incline will stuck. Locate the belt and inspect it thoroughly.
Look for any signs of damage, cuts, and broken areas. Replace the worn-out belt and your machine will be good again.
Tip#9. Contact Sole Support
I did try all the above-mentioned solutions on my friend’s Sole. After a few steps, I found that the belt was not lubricated. It was giving off a screeching sound.
Another cause was the loose wire between the PCB and the control. So, I reattached the wire firmly. Likewise, you can also fix your Sole at home.
However, if no trick works then contact Sole. Ask for customer support and explain your problem. There may be some intricate issues that can be solved only by the manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sole Treadmill
Here are the answers to a few of your queries. You are welcome to ask more in the comment section.
Where can I get the replacement safety key for my Sole treadmill?
Only the manufacturer can provide you with the replacement key. So, contact Sole to get the key. Otherwise, you can buy a universal or multi-function key from Amazon or a sports store.
Why my Sole treadmill has stopped working suddenly?
Generally, excessive friction between the platform and the belt stops your machine. It happens due to a lack of lubrication. So, the solution is to lubricate your treadmill every 1-3 months.
What is the average lifespan of a Sole treadmill?
Sole manufacture long-lasting and durable treadmills. It can last more than 10 years if maintained properly. Sole gives a 5-year warranty on the motor, deck, frame, and other parts.
Also read: Treadmill Fuse Blows and the Circuit Breaker Trips-Fixed
Concluding Words
I shared my personal experience and verified solutions in this guide. I am sure till now your Sole treadmill incline has started working. Do not forget to tell us in the comment section which remedy worked for you.
