Precor Error Code 38 Overload Slowdown

Mar 03, 2022

Applies to

TRM600-XX, 120V

Lower SW 304643-101 012 and later

P30 Software Version 304716-101 002 and later

TRM700-XX, 120V

Lower SW 304235-105 003 and later

P30 Software Version 304254-101 007 and later

P30i Software Version 304756-101 002 and later

TRM800-XX, 120V

Lower SW 302105-104 and later

P10 Software Version 303310-102 008 and later

P30 Software Version 303080-105 016 and later

Issue symptoms

Note: Before this P10/P30 software version, when too much current was used by the motor, an Error 36 was displayed. The treadmill would become temporarily out of service with the belt slowing to a stop. Overload Slowdown has been added to help the exerciser experience.

When a heavy exerciser uses the treadmill at high speed, the treadmill needs more power to move the running belt. In this case, the treadmill will attempt to draw more power from the wall outlet. The maximum current the treadmill can draw from the wall outlet is 20 amperes. If the treadmill draws more than 20 amperes, the treadmill causes an overload. In order to prevent an overload, the treadmill slows down the running belt and limits the speed. A heavy exerciser can still use the treadmill, but the speed will be limited.

When the MCU detects excessive current being used by the motor, the MCU will slow the belt down in 3% MPH/KPH increments, which will decrease the current draw from the motor until the motor is no longer in an overload condition. An Error 38 will be logged in the Error Log but will not immediately scroll on the console. The speed displayed on the console will be updated to the actual speed, and this new speed will be limited by the MC. The exerciser will not be able to increase the speed beyond the new temporarily limited speed during the workout in progress, and “SPEED IS TEMPORARILY LIMITED” will be displayed when the exerciser tries to increase beyond the temporary speed set by the MCU. Once an Error 38 is triggered, the belt must come to a complete stop to clear the error condition. The tread will reset to the Club Setting Max Speed without being power cycled. Once recovered, the exerciser may start another workout. The next exerciser will not see any speed limitations unless an Error 38 is triggered again.

If the speed drops below 5 MPH (8 KPH) and the overload condition is still present, an Error 36 will be displayed and the treadmill will temporarily be out of service. The treadmill will slow to a stop but will recover from the error upon starting a new workout; see error 36 for details.

If the speed drops below 5 MPH or 8 KPH and the overload condition is still present, an Error 36 will be displayed and the treadmill will temporarily be out of service. It will slow to a stop but will recover from the error; see error 36 for details.

The most important factor to remember when encountering a logged Error 38 is, it is meant for capturing information and is not necessarily an indication of a problem. Most of the time the code, taken by itself, is normal. Even with a new deck/belt, an Error 38 can trigger with the right combination of a high weight/high speed runner, even if this person runs for just a few seconds. Gyms that have a lot of heavy members running at high speeds may need to replace belts more often.

Servicers should rely on the belt rating and current measurement troubleshooting methods if an actual problem is suspected with the treadmill.

Troubleshooting steps:

1. Intermittent occurrences of Error 38 are not a major concern and is most likely caused by a heavy exerciser running at high speed.
   1. Check for other error codes. Errors 16 and 36 could indicate other power problems.
   2. If no other errors are present, monitor for other occurrences.
2. TRM700-XX, TRM800-XX:
   If the occurrence of Error 38 becomes more frequent, check the belt rating.
   1. If the belt rating is 1 or 0, Inspect the condition of the belt and deck. If dirty clean the belt/deck and verify operation. If worn, replace as necessary.
3. TRM600-XX
   If the occurrence of Error 38 becomes more frequent, check the Belt Maintenance > Current (motor current).
   1. If the current is high (greater than 16 amps), Inspect the condition of the belt and deck.
   2. If dirty, try cleaning the belt/deck.
   3. If worn and in poor condition, replace the belt and deck (or flip deck).