Model A erg questions

Tetrabiotic · Post by **Tetrabiotic** » March 10th, 2009, 12:39 pm

I have a model A I have been using diligently for about 4 months. Is it possible to up the tension any on this model? I have it on the smallest sprocket and I really could use more of a work out. Is the return mechanism a bungee type cord that iparts some resistance ? If so shoulod it be replaced?

Another question- if I am not careful and sometimes when rowing too fast, the chain jumps the sprocket either off completely or onto another sprocket. is this normal and is there any way to keep it from doing this?

thanks for any help.

c2jonw · Post by **c2jonw** » March 10th, 2009, 2:21 pm

Make sure you have all nine fan blades attached to the flywheel. If they are all there, then the small sprocket is pretty much the maximum resistance you're going to get out of it, which should be more than enough for rowing.Don't try to get more resistance from the bungee cord- its function is only to provide enough force to return the handle to the start position. Remember this is an aerobic execise, not weight lifting. If you don't feel like you're getting enough of a workout then maybe you need some pointers on your form. Check out: http://www.concept2.com/us/training/technique.asp

C2JonW

Cyclist2 · Post by **Cyclist2** » March 10th, 2009, 9:42 pm

c2jonw is obviously the expert here, but the first impression I got from your post was that the bungee was too weak -> the chain jumping off the sprockets. But that could also be due to your form, as he points out. The chain should go back and forth almost horizontally, smoothly with no bounce or rattling.

Bob S. · Post by **Bob S.** » March 10th, 2009, 10:14 pm

Is it well clear of any walls or anything else that might obstruct air flow? I gather that having plenty of open space around is critical with the model A.

Bob S.

c2jonw · Post by **c2jonw** » March 11th, 2009, 8:34 am

The bungee should have enough tension to return the handle firmly to the guide board- about 6-8 pounds- and it can be tightened up as described here: http://www.concept2.com/us/support/manu ... sembly.pdf What I was trying to point out in my earlier post is that the bungee is not to be tightened up simply to add resistance to the workout.
Also described here is the inspection and maintenance of the entire return mechanism, which might be worth checking out. Regarding the jumping sprocket, this could be caused by a stiff link, insufficient chain lubrication, high stroke rate, loose bungee, the angle of the chain onto the sprocket, poor form on the recovery or some combination of any of these.
BobS is correct about the air flow around an A- you get a much easier workout if the machine is in close proximity to walls or anything that might obstruct the air flow around the flywheel....C2JonW

Tetrabiotic · Post by **Tetrabiotic** » March 13th, 2009, 3:29 pm

Thank yo everyone for the tips. I carry the machine outdooors to use it so there are no walls or anything close by. Also I am missing one of the black plastic blades - is it possible to get replacements? I may try to tighten th bungee cord.

c2jonw · Post by **c2jonw** » March 13th, 2009, 3:51 pm

Yes, we still have the A fan blades. Call our customer service number for pricing....C2JonW