FIRST DEGREE FITNESS VX-2 Vortex Compact Rower Owner’s Manual

FIRST DEGREE FITNESS VX-2 Vortex Compact Rower

OverView

1. Contents of VX-2 Pack.
2. VX-2 Assembly Instructions.
3. Tank Filling and Water Treatment.
4. How to Row.
5. Long Term Water Treatment and Basic Operation.
6.  Maintenance Chart.
7. Troubleshooting Guide.
8.  The VX-2 Rower Ergometer with Optional USB Function
9. Changing the Bungee Cord.
10. Parts List and Warranty.

Training with the VX-2

1. As with any piece of fitness equipment, consult a physician before beginning your VX-2 exercise program.
2. Follow instructions provided in this manual for correct foot position and basic rowing techniques.

CAUTION

1.  The VX-2 can stand vertically for storage. When doing so, please follow the instructions given in the basic operation section of this manual.
2. Keep hands away from moving parts, as indicated by the warning sticker on the mainframe of your machine and inside the PVC rear cover.

Box Contents:

 Attaching Upper/Lower Frame

1. Step 1: Open the box and remove the contents. Lie Upper Frame on its back as shown here. In the bolt pack, locate 2x M10x140mm bolts and curved washers along with 1x M10x65mm dome head bolt and washer. Connect the Lower Frame to the Upper using M10x140mm bolts first and do not tighten before installing the third M10x65mm bolt as shown lower right.
   Caution: the curved washers can damage paint if not lying flush against the oval tube when tightened. Use care when securing.

WARNING

Do not attempt to stand rower until Footplate/Seat Rail assembly is attached. See the following page for details.

Assembly Instructions

1. Step 1: Using 2x 170mm bolts, 4x standard washers, and 2x Nylock nuts, attach the Footplate to the Mainframe of the rower as shown.

Attaching Seat Rails to Mainframe

1. Step 1: Install Seat Rail onto Footplate/Mainframe Assembly using 4x M10x47.5mm bolts (no washers) and 4x M6x20mm bolts with M6 washers.
2. Step 2: Install the right Seat Rail. Tip: Install both M10x47.5mm bolts first from the outside to hold the rail in position before securing from the inside with the M6x20mm bolts and M6 washers.

Rower Seat Assembly

Installing the Rear Leg

Installing the S-bend and Frame Tension Cable

1. Step 1. Install rear of S-bend onto the Upper Frame using M10x80 mm bolt, M10 Nylock, and 2 x M10 washers.
2. Step 2. Attach the S-bend to the Footplate as shown. Tilt the upper frame slightly forward to align in the proper position. Note the M10x15mm S-bend bolt with washer is pre-installed on the S-bend for your convenience.
3. Step 3. Align the Frame Tension Cable eyelet with the Bracket on the lower frame and install with M10x40mm Bolt, 4x M10 plastic washers (2 on either side of eyelet and inside the metal bracket), and Nylock nut. Then, align and screw the opposite end into the Rear Leg as shown. Tension until taut and then secure with Retaining Nut.

Tand Filling and Water Treatment

Fill the tank as shown left. Use the yellow plug only for filling. Fill with adjuster handle at level 16 only. Once the filling is complete, use a coin or large blade screwdriver to tighten the tank plug into place.

1. The filling requires a large bucket (not supplied) and the Fluid Rower siphon (included). A filling will take approximately 7.6 liters of water.
2. Unscrew the yellow tank plug on the tank back and insert the flexible tube into the rear of the tank while keeping the rigid hose in the bucket. Note: The siphon tube may be impeded by one of the impeller blades. Use the siphon only to push the impeller down slightly. Note: Where water quality is known to be poor, FDF recommends the use of distilled water.
3. Move the adjuster handle to level 16, and begin filling. Note: The siphon valve must be closed to allow siphoning action to occur. Tip: Placing the bucket in an elevated position will allow the si-phon to continually pump water into the tank. Do not fill past the calibration mark indicated on the tank! Note: Opening the siphon valve will stop the pumping action. Use this feature to avoid water spillage when nearing filling completion.
4. Once the filling is complete (to the proper calibration level as indicated on the tank), follow the water treatment schedule as shown.

Water Treatment Procedures:

1. Add one Chlorine tablet.
2. Wait a minimum of 72 hours. Then add a very small amount of blue dye and check for the desired color. Important! Do not add blue dye for at least 72 hours following Chlorine treatment. The blue dye adds visual appeal as well as cuts down the amount of light affecting the tank water, thus extending the amount of time between water treatments.
3. Use a drop cloth under the tank both when filling the tank and adding blue dye to avoid staining floor or carpet

How to Row?

1.  Begin the stroke comfortably forward and push strongly back with your legs while keeping your arms and back straight.
2.  Begin to pull your arms back as they pass over your knees and continue the stroke through to completion rocking slightly back over your pelvis.
3.  Return to the starting position and repeat.
4.  For further details regarding rowing technique, please refer to our international website at firstdegreefitness.com

How Often?

Begin with 5-minute training sessions once a day and aim for around 2:30 to 2:45 for 500m times. Row at a pace that keeps the water circulating continuously between strokes. Progress a few minutes more each day until you are comfortable with 30-45 minutes training time 3 or 4 times a week. This will provide aerobic endurance benefits, muscle toning, and sufficient calorie burning to form part of a weight loss program.

CAUTION: Always consult a doctor before beginning an exercise program. Stop immediately if you feel faint or dizzy.

Long Term Water Treatment and Basic Operation

• Important: Do not fill past the calibration mark as indicated on the tank level sticker or water spillage can occur. See tank filling/water treatment page for details.

• Long Term Water Treatment: Do not use any water treatment other than the tablets supplied with this machine. For replacement tablets, contact your local First Degree Fitness distributor.
  Water treatment schedules for the VX-2 will vary according to the fluid tank’s exposure to sunlight but expect 8-12 months near a bright, sunlit window and 2 years or more for a darker location. At the point of finding the water slightly cloudy, add a Chlorine tablet. Remember to wait 72 hours following the chlorine tablet before adding the blue dye as the Chlorine tablet is extremely concentrated.

• CAUTION: It is recommended that a drop cloth be used under the fluid tank whenever the tank is open for water treatment

• Vertical Storage: The VX-2 can easily be stored in a vertical, upright position. For safety, choose a suitable location, such as a corner of a room. It is recommended that something soft (such as carpet or a small towel) be placed under the upper rear of the unit to avoid marring either the paint or Perspex cover.

• Resistance: The level of resistance is determined by the level indicator located on the front of the tank. Level one indicates the lightest resistance, level sixteen represents the heaviest resistance. Allow three to four strokes after adjusting the resistance handle to allow the desired resistance level to be reached.

• Dyneema Cable Drive: The Dyneema Cable Drive system allows for simplicity, smoothness, and unparalleled performance. The unique properties of the Dyneema Cable make it extremely useful in harsh environments, such as sailing, climbing, fishing lines, body armor, etc. It is quite literally stronger than steel. The 6mm Dyneema Cable used on the VX-2 is rated in excess of 1,000kg.

• Note: If the Dyneema Cable is twisted excessively, the rowing stroke will feel lumpy. Use the rower handle to untwist the cable to its normal operating position.

• Light fraying is normal: The Dyneema Cable may have a slight “fuzzy” appearance after a period of use. Dyneema Cable is extremely abrasion-resistant and to some degree self-lubricating. Expect many years of trouble-free performance.

• Frame Tension Cable: The VX-2 is fitted with a Frame Tension Cable which provides improved frame rigidity. The cable may on occasion require adjustment. For optimum performance, the cable should be taut. If the cable becomes loose, first loosen the Retaining Nut, retighten the Frame Tension Cable and then secure the Retaining Nut.

Maintenance chart

required, please fol- low the instructions provided in the “Changing the Bungee Cord” section of this manual.|
Dyneema Cable.| Check monthly for signs of twisting, excess fraying or other signs of premature wear. Note that a light “fuzz” is perfectly normal for Dyneema Cable and will not affect performance or longevity in any way.| The Dyneema Cable should rarely require changing, but should the need arise, please follow the instructions provided in the “Changing the Dyneema Cable” service section of the First Degree Fitness website at

www.firstdegreefitness.com

|
Frame Tension Cable| Check regularly for proper tension.| Tighten until taut. See Basic Operation page for details|

Troubleshooting Guide

sunlight. Add water treatment and blue dye or change tank water as di- rected in the water treatment section of this manual.
Rowing stroke return is too light.| Bungee not under enough tension.| Open rear Perspex cover, cut bungee tie wrap . Tighten by small increments using the bungee tie off tab point and test tension by allowing the rowing handle to return to its furthest point forward while still having some slight tension. Note light fraying of the bungee cord is normal.
Rower rocks from side to side when sitting on floor| Front/Rear frame level- ers need adjusting| Adjust the front two frame levelers until sta- bility is reached.
Excess Flex in frame during hard rowing| Frame Tension Cable requires tightening| Loosen retaining nut, and tighten rear of Tension Cable into rear leg until cable is taut. Retighten retaining nut. It is not nec- essary to overtighten the Cable.
Computer screen illumi- nates, but does not register when rowing.| Loose or failed connec- tion/Sensor gap too wide (see erratic computer display).| Check that the computer lead is connected properly. If connected properly check sen- sor gap.  Contact your local service center if this fails to address the problem.
Rowing stroke feels lumpy, not smooth..| Dyneema Cable is twisted .| You can untwist the Dyneema Cable by simply pulling the rowing handle to the end and turning the rowing handle to untwist the cable.

Note: Light fraying is normal.

The VX-2 computer does not illuminate after battery installation.| Batteries installed incor- rectly or need replacing.| Reinstall batteries in correct position and try again. If the LCD screen fails to illumi- nate, try rotating the batteries slightly in the computer. If this fails, contact your local service center.
The VX-2 computer display is erratic while displaying SPM and 500meter times.| Gap between sensor and magnetic ring is too wide.| Adjust sensor location using rear sliding adjustment located inside rear Perspex cover to a gap of no more than 2.5mm.

The VX-2 Rower Ergometer

• Quick start: Provides instant workout information. Just start training to activate. You can choose to change UNITS displayed
• UNITS:   Displays WATTS, SPM, HR, 500/m
• LEVEL:   Adjustable from 1-16. Match LEVEL number with resistance level on the Fluid tank.
• SET: Changes Time, Distance parameters
• PROGRAM: Clears current exercise program
• RESET: Clears data

Note: For complete operational instructions, please refer to the computer manual, which is included with your VX-2 Series rower.

Using the First Degree Fitness USB Interface

Description:
The USB connectivity now built into all new models of FDF Console and IPM allows you to enhance your exercise experience by connecting to your home PC or Laptop. Using FDF’s own sample applications you can exercise while enjoying your favorite movies. NetAthlon 2 XF for Rowers lets you race with other Internet-connected rowers in a Virtual Reality 3D environment or train solo.

Setting up USB connectivity

1. Download and Install the USB Device Driver (CDM2xxxx_Setup.exe for 32 and 64 bit Windows 7/Vista/XP) from the FDF Website.
2. Download and Install the Sample USB Applications from the FDF Website (www.firstdegreefitness.com). Download and Install NetAthlon 2 XF for Rowers from www.webracing.org/downloads.htm

Connecting your console

• The USB Connector is located on a flying lead at the rear of the IPM, along with the Sensor and Heart Rate Monitor Connectors.
• Connect to a Laptop or PC using a standard USB cable, you may need to wait while Windows starts the USB Device Driver.

Note: Please refer to computer manual where applicable or for further information refer to our website at www.firstdegreefitness.com

Replacing the VX-2 Bungee Shock Cord

1. Step 1. Remove the Perspex cover from the rear of the upper frame.
2. Step 2. Move the rowing handle from the S-Bend handle catch to a point where it is resting on top of the tank. This helps line up the Bungee Cord hole for easier removal/ replacement. Detach Bungee Cord from the lower rear attachment point.
3. Step 3. Unwrap the Bungee Cord from all of the Bungee Pulleys.
4. Step 4. Next, remove the magnetic ring. To loosen the Rear Mainshaft Bolt holding the magnetic ring in place, it is necessary to keep the main shaft and impeller assembly from turning with the bolt. Open the yellow tank plug, and insert a wrench wrapped in a lint-free cloth (to protect the electroplating finish on the blades) to catch the impeller blade and allow the Rear Mainshaft Bolt to be loosened as shown below right with a 6mm Allen key. Caution: Do not allow a dissimilar metal to directly contact the impeller blade. Premature rusting could occur. Cover any tool inserted in the tanks with a lint-free cloth and keep fingers clear.
5. Step 5. After removing the magnetic ring, the Bungee Cord will be accessible. Pull through the Rope/Bungee Pulley and remove. Note that the rower handle should be resting on top of the tank (as shown in step 2) for the bungee hole to line up. Thread new Bungee Cord through and pull until the knotted end is held securely in the slot.
6. Step 6. Once the Bungee Cord is in position, make two wraps on the Rope/Bungee Pulley in a clockwise direction, making sure the Bungee Cord tracks in the proper grooves. Make sure the Bungee is wrapped behind the Dyneema Cable. Once the Bungee has reached the position shown below, you may begin to re-wrap the Bungee around the Bungee Pulleys, starting with the upper-right rear Pulley.

Bungee wrapping in order

1. Rope/Bungee Pulley to upper rear right Bungee Pulley.
2. Upper rear right to lower rear right and left rear Pulleys.
3. Lower left rear to upper left rear Pulley.
4. Upper left rear to lower middle left and right Pulleys.
5.  Middle right Pulley to upper right front Pulley.
6. Upper front right Pulley to lower front right and left Pulleys.
7. Lower left front Pulley to upper left front Pulley.
8. Upper left front Pulley to Time off point.

Exploded Diagram

Parts list

Magnet #70319
10030| 1| Adjuster PP Tank Ring 358×10| 70321| 1| Tank Plug Black
10036| 12| Screw M3x20 SUS| 71018| 1| Tank Bolt Adjuster Washer M8x110
10041| 4| Nut M10 Nylock| 73019| 1| PVC Cover & Decal
10043| 12| Washer M12| 73045| 1| PC Tank Cover with Level Decal 16R – Blue
10047| 9| Impeller Blade| 73201| 2| Transport Wheel Frame
10063| 4| Bolt M12x30| 73705| 1| Rope/Bungee Pulley & One Way & Needle Bearings
10070| 5| Screw M4x10| 73800| 1| Rope Pulley 102mm & Bearings 6000ZZ #60112
10076| 4| Seat Wheel Polyurethane| 74038| 1| Rubber Bumper
10079| 1| Seat LS-E28| 74046| 1| Computer Stalk VX-1/2
10080| 12| Bolt M6x20| 74102| 1| Decal – Vortex Oval
10081| 14| Washer M6| 82001| 1| Lower Frame – VX2
10082| 23| Washer M10| 82016| 1| O-ring for Dyneema Handle
10096| 2| Bolt M10x70| 82017| 1| Handle Rubber Cover
10097| 2| Nut Dome Head M10| 82018| 1| Handle Bar for Dyneema
10114| 2| Plastic Bushing 20x16x13x10| 82021| 1| Upper main frame – VX-1/2
10121| 2| 3M Foot Plate Non Slip| 82031| 1| Footplate – VX2
10140| 8| Rear Leg Bolt M10x47.5mm| 82045| 1| Rear Leg – VX2
10176| 2| Foot Strap & Buckle #10177| 82054| 1| S Bend for VX
10184|

1

| Adjuster Handle & PU Cover P/ N 10193| 82063| 1| Steel Cable – VX2
10207| 1| Tank Plug Yellow| 82077| 2| Rear Leg End Cap – VX2/3
10300| 1| Aluminum tank back| 82084| 1| Pop Pin
11101| 1| Heel Support| 82085| 2| Curved Washer M10
14044| 1| Tank Black Outer Cover Ring – Blue| 82086|

2

| Bolt M10 x 140
20007| 2| Foot Levelers M8x30 Hardened Rubber| 82087|

1

| Bolt M10 x 65
20029| 3| Nut Welded M10| 82088| 2| Bolt M10 x 170
20150| 2| Bolt M10x15| 82089| 1| Bolt M10 x 80
50903| 1| IPM| 82090| 1| Bolt M10 x 45
60105| 1| Computer Mounting Bracket| 83502|

1

| Dyneema with Crimped End P/N 60617
74109| 10| Bungee Pulley 50mm with Bear- ing|

VORTEX SERIES ROWERS

INTERNATIONAL WARRANTY – FULL COMMERCIAL USE

This product is designed and constructed for use in any Health Club / Fitness Studio application.
First Degree Fitness Limited warrants that the Vortex Rower (model VX-1, VX-2 & VX-3), purchased from an authorized agent and in its undamaged original packaging, is free from defects in materials and workmanship. First Degree Fitness Limited or its agent will, at their discretion, repair or replace parts that become defective within the warranty period, subject to the specific inclusions and exclusions below.

• Metal Frame – 10 Year Limited Warranty First Degree Fitness will repair or replace the metal Main Frame of the Rower should it fail due to any defect in materials or workmanship within 10 years of the original purchase. Warranty does not apply to frame coating.

• Polycarbonate Tank & Seals – 3 Year Limited Warranty First Degree Fitness will repair or replace the polycarbonate tank or seals should they fail due to any defect in materials or workmanship within 3 years of the original purchase.

• Mechanical Components (of a non-wearing nature) – 2 Year Limited Warranty First Degree Fitness will repair or replace any mechanical component should it fail due to any defect in materials or workmanship within 2 years of the original purchase.

• All Other Components (of a wearing nature) – 2 Year Limited Warranty First Degree Fitness will repair or replace any component should it fail due to any defect in materials or workmanship within 2 years of the original purchase.
  Specific Inclusions

  • Bungee recoil cord, belt and pulley
  • Hand grips & foot straps
  • Polyester rowing belt / Dyneema cable
  • Seat
  • All pulleys, rollers & bearings
  • All rubber components
  • Computer & speed sensor (excluding replaceable batteries) All drive belts
  • Aluminum seat rails

• General Exclusions

  • Damage to the finish of any part of the machine
  • Damage due to neglect, abuse, incorrect assembly, or use of the machine
  • Any charges for freight or customs clearance associated with the return or dispatch of parts Any damage to or loss of goods during transport of any kind
  • Any labor cost associated with a warranty claim

• General Conditions

  • The serial number of the machine must be correctly registered with First Degree Fitness Limited or one of its appointed distributors
  • First Degree Fitness Limited reserve the right to examine any part where replacement is claimed under warranty
  • The warranty period applies only to the original purchaser from the date of purchase and is not transferable
  • The product must be returned to your place of purchase in original packaging with transportation, insurance, and associated charges paid for by you and risk of loss or damage assumed by you
  • First Degree Fitness makes no other warranties except as stated here and expressly disclaims all warranties not stated in this warranty. Neither First Degree Fitness nor its associates shall be responsible for incidental or consequential damages Manufacturer’s warranty automatically commences upon sale of the product to end-user or upon the expiration of one (1) year from month of manufacture, whichever occurs first

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