Newer models of treadmills will normally not work if you don’t insert its safety key before starting it. These keys, available in different sizes and shapes and some with magnets, are inserted into the console.
When the key is included with the treadmill, it provides user protection and prevents children from operating the machine, and avoids accidents.
If you lose the key, you will want to replace it to ensure that you can safely use it.
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How Does Treadmill’s Safety Key work?
The safety key works by interrupting the treadmill’s operation when, for some reason, the key is inserted into its slot.
This is connected to the user by a cable, which will come loose in an accident, and the treadmill will stop.
This is because the key helps to provide electricity to the motor and when it is not in place, the circuit does not complete, automatically stopping the training.
Safety Key Types and Solutions
In case you have lost the security key, don’t worry because you can replace it. Next, we will explain the different types of security keys that you can find in the market.
#1. Magnetic Safety Key
This type of key is the most used in treadmills. It is a magnet inserted into the console, where it also has a metal part capable of transmitting electricity and that acts as a switch so that the engine remains on.
This key has a plastic cable where, at its other end, it has a clip so you can place it on your clothes.
This type of key is prevalent, and it is straightforward to replace it in case of loss.
#2. Insertion Safety Key
Other models of treadmills offer a key of a different design but the same function.
In this case, a slot will be observed in the part of the machine board, and it is there where the key is inserted, which, of course, for safety is made of plastic and has a thin shape but, unlike the previous model, it does not have a magnet.
But they tend to have a rough surface that helps make better contact for the engine to start.
This type of key is also prevalent and can be easily replaced.
There are even universal models of this type of key that can be used in different treadmills models.
#3. Bar Keys
These security keys exist but are gradually becoming obsolete because if they need to be replaced, the switches must also be replaced.
This is because the key is shaped like a bar made of metal that allows it to make contact with electrodes to start the engine, and although they are covered with plastic, their replacement may not be safe.
How to Make a Replacement Treadmill Safety Key?
To avoid accidents when training, all motorized treadmills have a built-in safety key and, generally, they usually bring a replacement key.
But since these keys are very lightweight and made of plastic for security, they can be lost or even broken if not used correctly with constant use.
The key allows to start of the engine of the machine since it helps the switch to activate, and in this way, the electricity makes its way to the engine, correctly activating the treadmill’s operation.
In case you don’t have a key, you won’t be able to train. Many users tend to ‘fix’ this problem by trying to make contact with the internal wires to make it work, but since this produces electricity, it is not a safe option.
Depending on the type of security key that your machine uses, you can replace it, or in case it is more complicated, you must replace the switch with a new key.
However, you have another option: to build a straight security key in a homemade and safe way.
For that, you will need to follow some steps, and you will need the following materials:
- Posterboard
- Utility knife
- Plastic file box
- Hacksaw
- Fine flat file
- Electric drill
- 1/4-inch drill bit
- 3/16-inch braided cord
- Plastic spring clip
Steps to follow:
#1. Pay attention to the slot’s width where the key is inserted because you will have to cut the poster board to exactly that measurement.
You can cut 3 inches long with the utility knife. Now, plug in the machine and position yourself on the belt to insert the poster board you just cut into the key slot.
Once inside, turn on the machine (Start button) and see if the monitor screen is turned on. If the answer is yes, you can proceed to the next step.
#2. Now, use the poster board that you cut as a mold to cut another piece.
Put both pieces together that fit correctly and then insert them back into the slot and press the Start button again.
The monitor screen should turn on and then off when you remove the poster board.
#3. Now, grab the plastic file box, but it will need to have a uniform side.
With the help of one of the poster boards that you cut earlier, place it on the plastic file box to make a mold to obtain the same size and cut it with a hacksaw.
Being plastic and of a perfect thickness, you can use it as a security key.
To avoid cutting yourself when maneuvering, use a fine flat file to make the edges smooth.
#4. Now that you have your plastic key, you will need to make a hole in one end with the drill so that it can pierce a 3/16 inch diameter cord.
Tie a knot so the cord stays in place, and cut it to 36 inches long. At the other end of the cord, place the clip; remember that it must always be plastic since it will be hooked to you when you train.
Test to see if your new key works properly by pulling the cord to check the plastic comes out of the slot.
Related Questions
#1. Can You Start a Treadmill Without the Key?
No. The security key has this name precisely because it provides security to the user, so it does not start without the key.
#2. Are Treadmill Keys Universal?
Each treadmill has its own security key, but keys of the same type can be used in different machines since they fulfill the same function.
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