Sole Treadmill Lubrication Guide: OEM-Approved Methods
Own a Sole treadmill? Here's the manufacturer-approved lubrication method, the right lubricant to use, and the exact schedule to follow for every model.
Sole treadmills are among the most popular and well-built home treadmills available. Models like the F85, F89, F63, F65, and ST90 deliver exceptional performance — but only with proper maintenance. Here's everything you need to know about Sole treadmill lubrication.
The Right Lubricant for Sole Treadmills
Sole specifies 100% pure silicone lubricant for all their treadmill models. Our Sole Treadmill Lubricant (1 oz tube) is the OEM-approved formula — the exact same product recommended in your owner's manual.
Important: Sole treadmills use non-waxed decks. Using wax-based lubricant on a Sole treadmill can damage the deck coating and void your warranty. Always use silicone-based lubricant.
When to Lubricate Your Sole Treadmill
Sole recommends lubricating your treadmill every 90 hours of use or every 3 months, whichever comes first. Here's a quick reference:
- Light use (2-3 hours/week) — Every 3 months
- Moderate use (4-6 hours/week) — Every 6-8 weeks
- Heavy use (7+ hours/week) — Monthly
Step-by-Step Lubrication Process
- Turn off and unplug the treadmill completely
- Loosen the belt by turning the rear adjustment bolts 1/4 turn counterclockwise on each side
- Lift one side of the belt about 6 inches to access the deck underneath
- Apply lubricant — Squeeze the tube in a 12-inch line across the deck, about 18 inches from the motor cover
- Repeat on the other side of the belt
- Re-tension the belt by turning the adjustment bolts back 1/4 turn clockwise
- Walk (don't run) at 2 mph for 5 minutes to distribute the lubricant evenly
- Wipe any excess from the belt edges
Compatible Sole Models
This lubrication process applies to all current and recent Sole treadmill models:
- Sole F85 and F89 (premium home models)
- Sole F63 and F65 (mid-range home models)
- Sole ST90 (studio/commercial model)
- Sole FT94 and FT96 (folding models)
- All Spirit Fitness and Xterra Fitness treadmills (same parent company)
Stock Up and Save
A single 1 oz tube ($15.99) covers one lubrication session. For long-term savings:
- 2-Pack ($29.99) — 6 months of maintenance
- 10-Pack ($139.99) — Over 2 years of maintenance, best per-tube value
For owners who also maintain other equipment, TechMotion Silicone Spray Cans are a versatile alternative that works on Sole treadmills and everything else in your gym.
Need more help? See our complete treadmill lubrication tutorial with photos and tips.
Wondering why silicone is the only approved lubricant for Sole treadmills? Read the science behind silicone lubricant. Make sure you're not making any of the 8 maintenance mistakes that void your warranty. And if your Sole treadmill is making unusual noises, check our complete noise fix guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What lubricant does Sole recommend for their treadmills?
Sole recommends 100% pure silicone lubricant. Their OEM-approved tube lubricant is the exact formula specified in all Sole treadmill owner's manuals and is compatible with all Sole, Spirit Fitness, and Xterra models.
Q: How often should I lubricate my Sole F85 treadmill?
Sole recommends lubricating the F85 every 90 hours of use or every 3 months, whichever comes first. Heavy users running 7+ hours per week should lubricate monthly for optimal belt protection.
Q: Can I use spray lubricant on a Sole treadmill instead of tube?
Yes. Any 100% pure silicone lubricant works on Sole treadmills. TechMotion Silicone Spray provides the same protection as tube lubricant with faster, more even application and better cost per use.
Q: Does Sole use wax or silicone on their treadmill decks?
Sole treadmills use non-waxed decks that require silicone lubrication. Using wax-based lubricant on a Sole treadmill can damage the deck coating and void your warranty. Always use silicone-based lubricant.