Hi, I’ve come with a problematic treadmill controller board. The board is 17 years old, Sole f63. The issue is that the board goes into fault whenever load is applied. The upper display panel shows an “err” code the second after the motor start, but continues fine until load is applied. And when load is applied, a “low speed” error shows. It goes into fault and turns the relay off.

I am not experienced in circuits but decided to learn a bit on this treadmill, partially because I don’t want to part a 200lb monstrosity and spend another grand on a new one, and partially because I’m tired of throwing good shit out because of a $2 part.

What I have done so far:

• I got an ESR meter and checked all the electrolytic capacitors.
• I checked the two Mosfets out of circuit and because my multimeter was garbage, it couldn’t activate it, I ended up replacing the FETs.
• I checked the 2-wire Hall speed sensor for continuity. It looked good.
• I measured current and voltage going to the motor (90v 18A brushed dc motor):

	3 mph	6 mph	3 mph under load	6 mph under load
A	2.0	2.5	5	6
V	14	27	16	24

The way I tested the current and voltage under load is by dragging my bare foot on the walking belt until the board went into fault. It wasn’t that much drag. I noted down the highest peaks in the table.

• I checked the three bridge rectifiers (in circuit). They seem fine.
• All diodes read fine. Some appeared to be showing forward and backward voltage drop. Probably normal?

As for mechanical parts, I think it’s in good order. I replaced the belt, lubed it. It runs very quiet and slides very well.

The motor generates current when I “walk” the belt manually.

What would you advise I go on to check?

 

Hi,
Welcome to AAC.
Nice to see good photo's.
You could resolder your previous soldering and remove surplus flux. (Just so you don't create further problems).
Good luck........

 

I haven’t touched a soldering iron since I was 10 years old. 47 now I butchered that one ^

 

Hi,
You will be fine, I'm 82 and still practicing.
There are some members well versed on treadmills, I'm not one of them.
Good luck...........