Merrithew Health & Fitness Reformer User manual

Please review this important assembly, safety and warranty information about your
new Merrithew Health & Fitness Reformer and keep it handy for future reference.
OWNER’S MANUAL
Reformer

Reformer Owner’s Manual
2
1 Wooden Standing Platform
2 Plastic Foot
3 1⁄2" Star Knob
4 Easy-Roll Wheel
5 Accessory Board Receptacle
6 Footbar Adjustment Cradle
7 Swing Arm Support
8 Gearbar Slot [fig. B]
9 Gearbar [fig. B]
10 Footbar
11 Spring [fig. A & B]
12 Spring Ball
13 Spring Coil [fig. A]
14 Fixed Cube Nut [fig. A]
15 Spring Bolt [fig. A]
16 Nylon Locknut [fig. A]
17 Plastic Spring Holder [fig. B & E]
18 Floating Roller [fig. E]
19 Fixed Roller [fig. E]
22 3⁄8" Star Knob [fig. D]
23 Rope Housing Reel [fig. E]
24 Cotter Pin [fig. E]
25 Self-Locking Cleat [fig. E & G]
26 Rope Retaining Hook [fig. G]
27 Socket Head Cap Screw
28 C-channel [fig. C]
29 Carriage Stopper Position [fig. H]
30 Carriage Stopper [fig. C & H]
31 Small Swing Arm Bar
32 Large Swing Arm Bar
33 Aluminum Rail [fig. H]
34 Soft Reformer Loop
35 Carriage [fig. E]
36 Headrest
37 Padded Shoulder Rest
38 Double-Ended Swivel Spring Clip
39 Serial Number [fig. C]
40 Pulleybar Receptacle
41 Rope [fig. E]
42 Horizontal Metal Bar pro &rehab
43 Horizontal Metal Frame [fig. D]
44 Pulley [fig. H]
45 Pulley Spring [fig. H]
46 Eyehook [fig. D & H]
47 Pulleybar [fig. D]
48 Receptacle Cap
Part Identification for the STOTT PILATES Reformers
NOTE: Parts may not be exactly as shown.
Photo shown is a Professional Reformer.
Part IDs are the same for other Reformer
models (SPX Max, Rehab and V2 Max Plus).
Please see page 6 for all Reformers included.
44
45
47
BACK OF
REFORMER
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 10811 17 27 31 32 3433 35 36 37 38 40 41 42
FRONT OF
REFORMER
39

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D
REQUIRED TOOLS:
one flat-head screwdriver
one 1/4” (6mm) hex key (supplied)
one open-end wrench (supplied):
1/2” (13mm) x7/16” (11mm)
17 2119
18 23
24 2519
18 41
FIG E – RETRACTABLE ROPE SYSTEM CARRIAGE [35]
20
47
48
22
43
46
VERTICAL FRAME
RECEPTACLE & STAR KNOB
BOLT ENDOF SPRING
FIG A – SPRING
B
GEARBAR& SPRINGS
13 ?
BALL ENDOFSPRING
C
SERIAL NUMBER STICKER
39.
28.
G H
45.
F
25.
26.
44.
46.
35.
29.
30.
28.
33.
58.
PULLEY BLOCKCARRIAGE STOPPING SYSTEMCLEAT SYSTEM
57
14 15 16
1212
11
12
17
9.
8.
?

Reformer Owner’s Manual
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Reformer Owner’s Manual
4
50 Vertical Frame [fig. I]
51 Spring Clip
52 Vertical Sliding Track plus-style
53 Traveling Pulley plus-style
54 Traveling Pulley Eyehook plus-style
55 Pulley Spring plus-style
56 Pulley plus-style
57 Threaded Bolt plus-style
58 Swivel Harness plus-style
59 Spring-Loaded Stopper plus-style
60 Stopper Position plus-style
61 Leg Spring, white
62 Safety Chain
63 Roll-Down Spring, black
64 Roll-Down Bar
65 Padded Long Spine Strap
66 Push-Thru Bar
67 Traveling Spring Hook
68 Fixed Eyehook [fig. I] plus-style
69 Light Arm Spring, yellow [fig. J]
70 Foam-Grip Handle [fig. J]
71 Hex Bolt
72 Vertical Frame Receptacle
73 Push-Thru Spring, blue [fig. K]
74 Extension Strap [fig. L]
75 Locking Spring Clip [fig. K]
Part Identification for the Vertical Frame
NOTE: Parts may not be exactly
as shown. Photo shown is a
Professional Reformer. Part IDs are
the same for other Reformer models
(SPX Max, Rehab and V2 Max Plus).
PLUS-STYLE VERTICAL FRAME
52.
61.
63.
62.
64.
67.
65.
66.
53.

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50.
54
55
58
57
59
71
72
60
51
68
PUSH-THRU SPRING WITH
LOCKING SPRING CLIP
74.
68.
69
50
50
66
56
51
FIG I– TRADITIONAL VERTICAL FRAME
VERTICAL FRAME RECEPTACLE
SPRING CLIP ON PUSH-THRU BAR
EXTENSION STRAPS
LIGHT ARM SPRING WITH
FOAM-GRIP HANDLE
68
TRAVELING PULLEY ON
MAX PLUS FRAME
52
J
K
L
REQUIRED TOOLS:
one open-end wrench
70
73
75

Reformer Owner’s Manual
6
STOTT PILATES Reformers are favored among Pilates professionals for their superior adaptability, versatility, craftsmanship and
smooth carriage ride. Allof our units feature easy adjustments to accommodate different sizes and abilities. The unique spring
resistance of this machine helps generate smooth muscular contractions that develop strength without bulk.
The STOTT PILATES Family of Reformers
V2 Max Plus™
Reformer*
V2 Max
Reformer™
V2 Max Plus™
Rehab Reformer*
SPX Max Plus™
Reformer*
includes
Retractable Rope System
and Vertical Frame with
Traveling Pulley System
includes
Retractable Rope System
and Vertical Frame with
Traveling Pulley System
includes
Retractable Rope System
and Vertical Frame with
Traveling Pulley System
V2 Max Rehab
Reformer™
SPX Max™
Reformer*
includes
Retractable Rope System
includes
Retractable Rope System
includes
Retractable Rope System

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User Guidelines
The STOTT PILATES Reformer is a sophisticated piece of equipment
that, when used properly, can facilitate many Pilates exercises
safely and effectively. However, care and caution must be taken
as there are some inherent dangers when using any exercise
equipment – especially when spring resistance is involved.
For inexperienced or first-time users, Reformers should only
be used under the supervision of a trained professional.
This manual includes general guidelines for setup and usage.
To get the most out of your Reformer, Merrithew Health & Fitness
offers instructional DVDs and manuals. Personalized training is
offered through our Licensed and Corporate Training Centers.
Visit merrithew.com for more information.
For questions or technical assistance,
email [email protected]
Care & Cleaning
Wipe vinyl surfaces with a mixture of water and tea tree oil, a
natural disinfectant. Add 1tsp of tea tree oil to a 1L or 1qt spray
bottle of water. A mixture of mild soap and water may be used to
remove more persistent dirt. Ensure cleaner does not leave an oily
residue, or make surfaces slippery.
Clean channels, rails and rollers weekly with a damp cloth.
Avoid spraying liquid directly onto surfaces.
CAUTION: Never use oil lubricants as they may damage rollers.
IMPORTANT!
This manual contains important assembly, safety and warranty
information. Read the manual carefully before using your new
Reformer and keep the manual on hand for future reference.
UNSAFE OR IMPROPER USE OF THIS EQUIPMENT BY FAILING TO
READ AND COMPLYWITH ALL REQUIREMENTS ANDWARNINGS
COULD RESULT IN SERIOUSINJURY.
It is impossible to predict every situation and condition that can
occur while using your Reformer. Merrithew Health & Fitness™
makes no representation about the safe use of the Reformer
any exercise equipment that cannot be predicted or avoided,
and you assume the responsibility for that risk.
Please ensure that you and your clients/patients have received
proper instruction regarding the correct and safe use of Merrithew
Health & Fitness equipment. We recommend cautious assembly and
usage and wish you many hours of safe and effective exercise.
Safety Instructions
WARNING: As with any athletic activity, the use of exercise
equipment involves risk of injury, damage and/or death.
By choosing to use Merrithew Health & Fitness equipment,
you and/or your clients/patients assume responsibility for
that risk, not the people who sold you the equipment,
distribute and/or manufacture it.
wReplace springs every 24 months, or as needed within that
period if deformation occurs.
wCheck wear on single, locking and double-ended spring clips
and replace every 12 months.
wEnsure footbar is securely fastened.
wEnsure swing arm support is securely fastened.
wEnsure carriage stopper is fully inserted in one of the six
positions at all times.
wEnsure all nylon locknuts and spring bolts are securely fastened.
wCheck wear on all star knob threads, replace as needed.
wCheck wear on ropes, straps and spring clips, replace as needed
with 12 month period.
wEnsure shoulder rests are inserted completely.
wCheck that nylon locknuts, spring bolts and spring balls
are securely fastened.
wInspect the retractable rope system to confirm the ropes are in
position and the threaded bolts of the cleats and pulley blocks
are secure (if applicable).
wCheck that all hex bolts on the Reformer’s two vertical frame
receptacles are tight and that the vertical frame is securely
anchored (if applicable).

Reformer Owner’s Manual
8
Proper maintenance and timely replacement of your
equipment or component parts is your responsibility
as it helps reduce the risk of injury. Conduct a regular
inspection of the following:
Daily
wClean rails with a damp cloth.
wInspect retractable rope system to confirm ropes are in position
and threaded bolts of the cleats and pulley blocks are secure.
wEnsure shoulder rests are fully seated on carriage.
wClean all upholstery after each use, using a soft cloth and
gentle cleanser.
Weekly
wEnsure that all nuts, bolts and screws are securely fastened.
wEnsure plastic feet are securely attached and have the flat side
facing towards the floor.
wEnsure footbar and chrome adjuster bar are securely fastened.
wEnsure pulley bar star knobs are securely tightened.
wInspect for excessive wear and replace rollers as needed.
Sit on the carriage and test rollers, listening for any thumping
or grinding – the ride should be quiet and whisper smooth.
wInspect all springs for wear and damage and replace immediately
as needed.
wCheck that bolts on the vertical frame receptacles are securely
fastened. Inspect traveling pulleys to ensure that threaded bolts
of the pulley blocks are secure. Test to confirm that the plunger
button is locking securely into the vertical frame.
Monthly
wCheck rope wear and replace as necessary.
wCheck that spring bolts and spring balls are securely fastened.
wCheck all spring clips to ensure proper fastening.
wCheck wear on star knobs and replace as necessary.
wCheck strap wear and replace as necessary.
Yearly
wReplace all spring clips
Every 2 Years
wReplace all springs
REPLACE ALL SPRINGS EVERY 24 MONTHS AND SPRING CLIPS
EVERY 12 MONTHS OR AS NEEDED WITHIN THAT PERIOD.
FAILURE TO PERFORM RECOMMENDED SAFETY CHECKS, OR USING
THE MACHINE WITH IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED, BROKEN OR WORN PARTS,
COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS BODILY INJURY.
IMPORTANT! PLEASE DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ASSEMBLE ON
YOUR OWN. THIS IS, AT MINIMUM, A JOB FOR TWO PEOPLE.
PLEASE READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS COMPLETELY BEFORE
BEGINNING ASSEMBLY.
Place all parts from the box in a cleared area and position them
on the floor in front of you. Remove all packing material from
your area and place them back into the box. Do not dispose of the
packing materials until assembly is completed. To prevent unsafe
or improper use, please read each step carefully before beginning.
For assistance or any missing parts:
Call: Toll-free in North America 1-800-910-0001
Toll-free in United Kindom 0800-328-5676 or
Email [email protected]
Please refer to the assembly instructions included in this Owner’s
Manual for initial Assembly Instructions and Part Identification.
Mechanical Safety Check

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Assembly Instructions
2Place swing arm support [7] in one of the footbar
adjustment cradles [6] and fasten tosmall swing arm
bars [31] with socket head cap screws [27].
4On Reformer carriage, insert floating rollers [18] into
bronze bushings [20].
6Align fixed rollers with c-channels, then adjust floating
rollers as necessary before guiding carriage into rails.
CAUTION: Westrongly advise that two people perform
this operation to prevent damaging rollers.
1Place metal plate of wooden standing platform [1]
on threaded bolts on front of Reformer and fasten
with 5⁄16" lock nuts and washers.
CAUTION: Ifyou are using a ratchet system to tighten
nuts, be careful not to over-tighten.
NOTE: Steps 1 to 7 are complete upon delivery for all
SPX Max™models.
3Fasten footbar [10] to top of large swing arm bars [32]
with socket head cap screws [27].
NOTE: To help ensure proper alignment, do not tighten
completely until all components of footbar are assembled.
Apply pressure to footbar before tightening all socket
head cap screws.
5Wipe rails [33] and inner c-channels [28], with a damp cloth
to remove dust and dirt. Insert carriage stopper [30]
in one of six positions.
CAUTION: The carriage stopper must be inserted into one
of the six positions AT ALL TIMES. Never use oil lubricants
as they may damage rollers.

Reformer Owner’s Manual
10
CONT’D
Assembly Instructions
8 Insert shoulder rests [37] into receptacles with handles
facing pulleybars and closest to outside edges of carriage.
10
To extend ropes, depress below rope retaining hooks
[26] and lift out of self-locking cleats [25]. Reel out length
of rope required.
12 Reattach double-ended swivel spring clips and soft
reformer loops [34].
7 Insert gearbar [9] into the middle gearbar slots [8] with
the concave indentations [inset above] facing the wooden
standing platform [1].
9Insert pulleybars [47] into receptacles [40] at back of reformer
and tighten star knobs [3]. Ensure eyehooks [46] on top of
pulleybars are parallel to rails [33].
PROFESSIONAL & REHAB MODELS:Align top of pulleys
with top of shoulder rests.
11 Remove double-ended swivel spring clips [38], pinch
end loop of ropes [41] and insert through the front of
pulleys [44].

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#6 #5 #4 #3 #2 #1
11
CONT’D
Assembly Instructions
14 Place soft reformer loops on carriage to line up fixed D-rings
on straps with end of metal plate of shoulder rests [37].
16 To shorten length slightly, pinch ropes [41] between
carriage [35] and self-locking cleats [25] and pull toward
carriage. Grasp ropes at retaining hooks [26] and tug
to engage cleats.
13 To determine correct length of ropes, setcarriage stopper
[30] in the second position. Attach springs to gearbar [9]
to ensure carriage [35] does not move.
15 Once rope length has been established, reset ropes in
self-locking cleats [25] then set fully into rope retaining
hooks [26].
17 Carefully lift Reformer and slide on plastic foot [2].
Ensure they sit flat on floor.
NOTE: Not necessary on SPX Max models.

Reformer Owner’s Manual
12
Assembly Instructions – Vertical Frame
19
PLUS-STYLE: To use traveling pulleys [53] extend ropes
and detach double-ended swivel spring clips [38] and
soft reformer loops [34]. Pinch end loop of ropes and
insert through the bottom of traveling pulleys. Re-attach
double-ended spring clips and soft reformer loops.
18 Remove receptacle caps [48] with a flat-head screwdriver.
Slide vertical frame into receptacles [72]. For plus-style
models, position pulley system facing carriage. For traditional
models, position highest eyehooks facing carriage. Tighten all
four hex bolts [71]. Attach springs, roll-down bar and safety
chain as illustrated on page 5 [Fig I].
20 To alter the height of traveling pulleys, pull out spring-loaded
stoppers [59]. Shift the traveling pulleys up or down vertical
sliding tracks [52] and release spring-loaded stoppers.
Shake pulleys to confirm they are fully locked into stopper
positions [60].
21 For exercises using arm [69] or leg springs [61], attach
springs to traveling spring hooks [67], and adjust height
in the same way as traveling pulleys. After changing
position, shake spring hooks to confirm they are fully
locked into stopper positions.

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Safety & Usage
GETTING ON THE REFORMER
SUPINE POSITION (LYING ON BACK)
wSit on Reformer carriage, facing side.
wReach hand nearest the footbar across your body and
place it onto the shoulder rest.
wTuck opposite shoulder under arm and roll onto back,
lowering head onto headrest.
wBring legs up and place feet on footbar, lowering arms by sides.
STANDING OR KNEELING POSITIONS
The carriage is a moving platform. Special attention must always
be paid to maintaining balance and stability, especially when
performing kneeling orstanding exercises.
wBefore you begin, ensure one or more springs are engaged
in the gearbar to secure the carriage.
FOR SPX MAX™REFORMERS:
wNever stand with both feet on woodenstanding platform.
wPlace one foot on secured carriage.
wCarefully place other foot onto the wooden standing platform.
A gripper mat may be used to prevent slipping.
wChemical-based cleansers used around Reformer feet may cause
permanent marking on floors. Our warranty does not cover
this damage. We highly recommend avoiding chemical-based
products and suggest placing a non-slip mat under the machine.
FOR ALL OTHER STOTT PILATES REFORMERS:
wPlace one foot on wooden standing platform.
wCarefully place other foot onto the secured carriage.
A gripper mat may be used to prevent slipping.
ALL MODELS OF REFORMERS:
wWhen standing on the carriage with two feet, it is advisable
to have a spotter to steady the carriage.
KEEP HANDS & FEET SECURE
Whenever placing hands or feet on the footbar, shoulder rests
or headrest, ensure they will not slip during exercise. Gripper mats
may be used.
SITTING OR LYING ON A BOX
Always place reformer box in a stable position onthe Reformer
and sit directly in the middle to avoidtipping. When using
footstrap, ensure it isunderneath the wooden standing
platform and securely clippedtogether.
CARRIAGE STOPPER
The carriage stopper position determines how close the carriage
slides in toward the wooden standing platform and dictates the
body’s range of motion.
The hole closest to the wooden standing platform is referred
to as position #1; the next is position #2, etc.
Adjusting the Carriage Stopper
wDo not sit on carriage while adjusting.
wRemove all springs from gearbar.
wInsert carriage stopper in one of six positions.
wEnsure carriage stopper is completely inserted.
The carriage stopper position should be chosen to give the
optimal range of motion based on the exercise and the individual
performing it. It will also affect the initial tension on the springs
in relation to the gearbar.
NOTE:The carriage stopper must be inserted in one of the six
positions AT ALL TIMES. USING THE REFORMER WITHOUT THE
CARRIAGE STOPPER MAY CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE GEARBAR
BLOCK AND ROLLERS.
#6 #5 #4 #3 #2 #1
RETRACTABLE ROPE SYSTEM
Prior to use, confirm that the retractable rope system is in good
order and rope is secured through self-locking cleats and rope
retaining hook. (See Assembly Instructions on page 10 and 11.)
GEARBAR
The gearbar position determines the amount of initial tension
on the springs. The slot closest to the wooden standing platform
is referred to as position #1, the next is position #2, the last is
position #3.
Adjusting the Gearbar
wDo not sit on carriage while adjusting.
wRemove all springs while holding gearbar in place.
wPlace gearbar in desired position.
wEnsure gearbar slides fully into slots.
wFace concave indentations toward Footbar.
Position gearbar relative to the carriage stopper to create initial
tension on the springs, i.e. the gearbar should not be in position
#3 if the carriage stopper is in position #1 or #2 as there will not
be any initial spring tension.
#1
#2
#3

Reformer Owner’s Manual
FOOTBAR
The footbar can be set at four different heights to facilitate various
reformer exercises and to accommodate physical differences and
abilities. The cradle closest to the gearbar is position #1, the cradle
farthest away is position #4.
Adjusting the footbar
wThe footbar can be adjusted while standing beside the reformer
or sitting on the carriage.
wGently pull footbar up and lift swing arm support out of footbar
adjustment cradle.
wLift or lower footbar to the desired height and place swing arm
support securely into nearest cradle.
SPX Max & SPX Max Rehab
#4 #3 #2 #1 #4 #3 #2
SPX Max
14
Safety & Usage CONT’D
SPRINGS
The number of springs attached to the gearbar determines the
total amount of resistance. Reformers are equipped with either
one 50% and four 100%-tension springs OR one 25%, one 50%,
and three 100%-tension springs. (See page 20 for more details.)
Adjusting springs
wTake care when attaching and detaching springs.
wFor safety, place one hand on gearbar.
wFirmly grasp spring, (not spring ball), and stretch
it to hook to or unhook from gearbar.
wEnsure ball rests securely in concave
HEADREST
The headrest adjusts to three positions: flat, half-raised or fully
raised. It should be adjusted on an individual basis to ensure neck
and shoulders are comfortable and tension-free when lying supine.
In exercises where the hips are lifted higher than the shoulders,
the headrest should be flat – even when beginning from a supine
position. In some exercises it is raised to provide a brace for
the feet.
Adjusting the headrest
wWith no weight on headrest, lift it and hinge adjustment block
to rest securely onto wooden edge of carriage.
SHOULDER RESTS
Shoulder rests are removable to allow storage of the reformer
and to facilitate the use of a mat converter.
Attaching the shoulder rests
wSlide square posts into receptacles in the carriage.
Padded sides face footbar and handles are positioned
closest to edges of carriage.
wTo remove, pull directly up on handles.
PULLEYBARS
SPX MAX REFORMER ONLY:Pulleybars detach for storage
without disengaging ropes. To remove, loosen star knobs and
remove pulleybars from receptacles.
When replacing pulleybars, ensure they are firmly within the
receptacles. Ensure eyehooks on top of pulleybars are parallel
to aluminum rails. Tighten star knobs securely.
Adjustment Block

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STORING SHOULDER REST
SPX MAX REFORMERS ONLY:When stacking, shoulder rests slide
conveniently into brackets affixed to the underside of the rail.
STORING PULLEYBARS
SPX MAX REFORMERS ONLY:When stacking, pulleybars can be
removed without disengaging ropes and stored in receptacles
under reformer.
MOVING REFORMERS
The front end of all reformers feature easy-roll wheels
which make repositioning simple.
NOTE SPX Max Reformers also include easy-roll wheels
on the back.
Preparing to reposition
wEnsure ropes do not drag and springs are attached to gearbar
so carriage is secure.
wStand at the back of reformer, grasp the horizontal metal bar
or frame and gently lift. Lift reformer high enough toengage
easy-roll wheels.
STACKING REFORMERS
STOTT PILATES offers a stackable reformer model. Up to five
SPX Max™Reformers can be stacked on the optional rolling base
or a maximum of six on a level floor without the rolling base.
CAUTION:Do not stack Reformers higher than your height
comfortably allows lifting them.
Stacking SPXMax Reformers
wLower footbar, insert carriage stopper into third position
and engage two springs to secure carriage.
wRemove shoulder rests and insert onto brackets under the rail.
Remove pulleybars without disengaging ropes and insert into
receptacles under the frame.
wStacking requires two people. The stronger person should
take the front (footbar) end.
wHold the steel plate beneath wooden standing platform.
wHold the back end by gripping horizontal metal frame.
Safety & Usage CONT’D

Reformer Owner’s Manual
16
Safety & Usage CONT’D
PUSH-THRU BAR
SAFETY CHAIN
The safety chain must be attached when using the push-thru bar
with springs from below. Attach safety chain first, from middle
eyehook of vertical frame to either upper eyehook of push-thru
bar. Ensure spring clips are completely closed and secure.
SPRINGS FROM BELOW
When using the push-thru bar with springs from below, attach
springs to eyehooks on lowest eyehooks on vertical frame using
locking spring clips. Then attach one or two springs to eyehooks
on lower side of bar, ensuring spring clips are completely closed
and secure.
A trained professional must keep a hand on the bar at all times
and safety chain must be used.
ADJUSTABLE PULLEY SYSTEM
PLUS-STYLE ONLY:The spring-loaded track system provides
adjustability for pulleys and spring hooks throughout the range
ofthe vertical frame.
ALTERING HEIGHT OF TRAVELING PULLEYS
AND TRAVELING SPRING HOOKS
wPull out the spring-loaded stopper on traveling pulley.
wShift traveling pulley up or down the track and release
the spring-loaded stopper. The pulley will spring-lock into
the nearest stopper position.
wShake traveling pulley to confirm it is fully locked into
stopper position.
wThe same method applies to adjusting traveling spring hooks.
wAdjust rope length as necessary.
CAUTION: Prior to use, confirm that the traveling pulley system
is in good order and that the traveling pulley’s threaded bolts
are securely fastened.
ROLL-DOWN BAR
Attach roll-down springs to roll-down bar, then to the fixed
eyehooks at the top of the vertical frame (see page 5). Both
springs must be attached. To decrease or increase, spring
tension, substitute light arm springs or leg springs respectively.
CAUTION: Roll-down bar can release at high velocity due to
spring tension. Ensure a secure grip at ALL times. Gripper mats
may be used.
SPRINGS FROM ABOVE
A trained professional must keep a hand on the push-thru
bar for any exercises with the springs attached from above.
CAUTION: To prevent accidental injury, never put yourface
(or another body part) above the push-thru or roll-down bar
while spotting an exercise.
Locking spring clips must be used to attach push-thru springs
from below to the vertical frame.

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Safety & Usage CONT’D
LEG SPRINGS
Attach leg springs to traveling spring hooks or fixed eyehooks
at desired height. Ensure spring clips are completely closed and
secure. Shown with padded long spine straps attached.
LIGHT ARM SPRINGS
Attach light arm springs to traveling spring hooks or fixed
eyehooks at desired height. Ensure spring clips are completely
closed and secure. Shown with foam-grip handles attached.
SPRING CLIPS
Whenever springs are used, ensure the spring clips at both
ends are closed completely. If a spring clip is only half closed
and catches on the eyehook, it may come undone and detach
with high force.
CAUTION: Locking spring clips must be used to attach push-thru
springs from below to the vertical frame. DO NOT use non-locking
spring clips.
EXTENSION STRAPS
The extension straps are valuable in supporting the knees
or legs in various exercises.
Attaching extension straps
wMove traveling spring hook to desired height along vertical
frame and release spring-loaded stopper or select desired
fixed eyehook.
wAttach leg springs, then attach extension straps to springs
and attach padded long spine straps or reformer loops to straps.
Ensure all spring clips are completely closed and secure.
wEnsure spring tension on Reformer is sufficient to return
carriage completely.
Padded Long Spine Straps
Leg Springs
Extension Straps

Reformer Owner’s Manual
18
Removing Carriage
Required for replacement of Reformer springs, carriage rollers and ropes.
1VERTICAL FRAME: Remove all springs from vertical frame,
including roll-down bar and safety chain. Loosen all four
hex bolts at the base of receptacles. Secure push-thru bar
in place by hand while removing vertical frame.
NOTE: Requires two people.
3Remove shoulder rests (if applicable). 4Detach all springs from gearbar. Carefully slide carriage out
of aluminum rails keeping carriage level until completely free
of rails. Turn carriage over, ensuring rollers are secure and
do not come in contact with the floor.
NOTE: Requires two people.
2To remove carriage, remove pulleybars and place them
on floor, on either side of aluminum rails.
5 Place carriage face down on floor.
REQUIRED TOOLS:
(spx max only)
1/2"(13mm) x9/16"(14mm)

merrithew.com 19
Replacing Springs
3Using second 7⁄16" wrench on opposite side, loosen nylon
locknut. This may require a bit of force.
NOTE:Discard used nylon locknuts. New ones are
provided with new springs.
5Repeat steps 2 to 4 on remaining springs.
4Remove spring bolt from spring anchoring bar, then
pull ball end of the spring out of spring holding loop.
2With 7⁄16" wrench or pliers, hold fixed cube nut in place.1Remove carriage, see page 18 for full instructions.
REQUIRED TOOLS:
pliers or two wrench
1/2"(13mm) x7/16"(14mm)
Spring Ball Spring SleevesSpring Coils Fixed Cube Nut
Bolt End
of Spring
Spring Bolt
Nylon Locknut
Ball End of Spring
IMPORTANT: Werecommend thatyou replace thesprings
on your reformer every two years to ensure maximum
performance and safety of your reformer at all times.

Reformer Owner’s Manual
20
Replacing Springs CONT’D
1Remove nylon locknut from spring bolt.
3Insert spring bolt through the corresponding
hole on spring anchoring bar.
2Thread the spring bolt through the spring holding loop.
Place 50% spring in the center, and 25% spring to one side.
Place 100% springs in remaining positions.
HIGH-PRECISION SPRING PACKAGE
3 x 100%, 1 x 50%, 1 x 25% arrange as follows:
Place 50% spring in the center and two 100% springs
on either side.
TRADITIONAL SPRING PACKAGE
4 x 100%, 1 x 50% arrange as follows:
4Thread nylon locknut onto spring bolt.
INSTALLING NEW SPRINGS
Determine Replacement Spring Package.
Springs are color-coded at the ball end. Red = 100%, Blue = 50%, White = 25%
100 10050100 100
#1 #2 #3 #4 #5
100 2550100 100
#1 #2 #3 #4 #5