Seated Stepper Noise

Your seated stepper is engineered and manufactured to the strictest industry standards and tolerances. All seated steppers, no matter the manufacturer, have a multitude of moving linkages and parts. Be aware that even with the tightest mechanical tolerances there still could be a slight amount of play between some parts. This inherent play can result in slight noises during use such as clicks and small thumps. Please expect that your seated stepper will not be completely silent.

Identifying the Noise

Before you troubleshoot the machine’s inner components, start by determining the following:

• Where the noise is coming from. Figure out where the noise seems to be coming from on your machine and prioritize this area when troubleshooting.
• How often the noise occurs. Knowing whether the noise occurs consistently throughout the entire rotation of your pedaling motion, or whether it occurs only once or twice per rotation, will help narrow down the source of the noise. 
• When the noise occurs. Determine if the noise occurs every time you pedal, or if it only occurs during certain instances. The noise may only occur (or become more noticeable) when your stepper is at a particular resistance setting, when it is connected to power, or when you use your machine in a particular way. Try pedaling with the machine unplugged to see if the noise still occurs. 
• If you can “feel” the noise during use. Knowing whether the noise coincides with part of your pedaling motion will further narrow down potential causes.

Types of Seated Stepper Noise

Causes of stepper noise include the surface on which the stepper is placed and using the stepper incorrectly. Mechanical causes include worn bearings and belts or loose belts and other parts. Some stepper noise during operation is normal; the friction of the parts rubbing together creates some amount of noise.

To prevent noise from improper use, place the stepper on a lightly carpeted surface or place a mat underneath it. Before each use, check for loose parts and tighten as needed. To address mechanical noise causes, inspect and replace bearings and belts, if necessary.

Grinding Noise

• A grinding sound near the front of the stepper that only occurs when you pedal may be coming from a loose or defective crank, pulley, flywheel bearing, or other hardware. It may be necessary to use a larger wrench than the one provided if you cannot tighten the bolts sufficiently. For assistance resolving this noise, please contact the XTERRA Service Department at 800-258-8511.

Thumping Noise

• A thumping noise that sounds like it is coming from inside the main body of the machine may be caused by dirt build-up on the rear rails. Try cleaning the rails and wheel with a lint-free cloth and rubbing alcohol. Stubborn build-up can be removed with your thumbnail or a non-metallic scraper. After cleaning, apply a small amount of lubricant on the rails with your fingers or a lint-free cloth. Wipe off any excess lubrication. If cleaning the rails does not resolve the thumping noise, please contact the XTERRA Service Department at 800-258-8511.

Squeaking and/or Squealing Noise

To keep your stepper operating smoothly and reduce noise, you may apply a small amount of silicone spray once weekly to the pulleys and bearings. Use of lubricants or cleaning solutions other than those specified will result in diminished performance and a shorter life span for that part.

• When there’s a squeak coming from the flywheel area, it could be caused by friction between the V-belt and the pulley(s). Inspect the belt for any damage and clean the pulley(s). Apply a small amount of silicone spray. If this cleaning does not resolve the noise, you may need to replace a pulley or adjust the V-belt. If your stepper is still within the limitations of its warranty, please contact the XTERRA Service Department at 800-258-8511 for assistance.
• If you have a squeak in the same general area as your V-belt mechanism, a loose screw may be the culprit. Check each of your stepper's screws and see if any have come loose. Retighten to see if it solves the problem. For additional assistance, please contact the XTERRA Service Department at 800-258-8511.