How to Use a Treadmill Without a Key

By Ryan Bauer

Overview

If you've ever exercised on a treadmill in the past, you are likely familiar with having to use treadmill keys. These plastic devices are used as a safety measure to prevent the treadmill from continuing to run if you slip or fall. The key inserts into a slot on the panel of the treadmill and is attached to a cord which clips to your clothing. Unfortunately, these keys have a tendency to get lost or misplaced. Though many treadmill users may find them to be tedious, they do provide an important safety measure, so only modify your treadmill for use without a key if necessary.

A typical plastic treadmill key.

Step 1

Examine the console of your treadmill to determine how it is designed to be opened. Most models have screws inserted from the bottom of the console. Remove these and set them aside in a safe place where they can be used for reassembly. The cover is now be free to be lifted off. Be cautious when pulling it away since there may be wiring that still connects the two parts together that will need to be disconnected. Remove the cover and set it aside.
Step 2

Find the slot where the key is inserted. This mechanism is powered by a simple action. When the key is inserted into the slot, it enables a switch, connecting two wires together. When this circuit is completed, the motor is allowed to run. Examine the slot and you will find two wires connected to it in one way or another. When these wires unite to make a complete circuit, the safety mechanism allows the treadmill to run.

Step 3

Use wire cutters or a knife to cut both of these wires as close to the key slot as you can, leaving as much wire as possible left to work with. Strip the ends of each wire using a pair of wire strippers or a knife. Expose at least 1/4 inch of bare wire to ensure a good connection. Twist the ends of the two wires together, and wrap them in electrical tape to ensure they don't short out or come loose over time.
Step 4

Reassemble the console cover, remembering to reconnect any wiring that was previously unplugged. Tighten the screws from the back to secure it in place. Test the treadmill out to see how the bypass is working. Remember the key is no longer acting as a safety mechanism, so in the event of an accident, the treadmill will continue to run until it is switched off or unplugged.

Skill: Moderate
Ingredients:
Screwdriver
Knife
Wire cutters
Wire strippers
Electrical tape
Tip: If you simply lost your key, it may be easier to order a new one from the manufacturer.
Warning:
Remember to unplug your treadmill before performing any type of work on it.
It is safer to use a key than to bypass the mechanism.

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