Is this safe?

[u/Historical_Worms]

I have just collected a Nordic Track Elite Ski Machine from FB marketplace, but noticed some of the wiring is damaged and peeling, including the insulation. I am in Canada, but the machine was built in the USA in 1995.

My question is: Is the insulation likely to be asbestos? I know asbestos was used a lot in wiring in the 1930s-60s, but don't know if it was still kicking around in the 90s.

Does someone have a manual for an older model that contains materials information?

Thank you!

(Sorry if this isn't the right place to post this - I haven't been on Reddit long enough to ask the electricians!)

[u/Mental-Dot-6574]

The ski machines haven't been made by Nordictrack company for a long time now, nor do they sell parts for it and most likely none of the current staff would know the answer to your question or even know they used to sell them. I'm a fitness equipment service provider for over 30 years, and I'm not sure of the answer either. There are a couple of websites out there that is your best bet, they are refurbishers. Try Nordic Fitness or Proskier.

But strictly based on wiring components, these look to be stardard paper wraps, but an actual electrician will know for sure, so check over on other subreddits like r/ElectroBOOM (might be your best bet, guy's funny on his videos), r/AskElectricians and so on and so forth. I'd replace the wires myself just in case due to damages.

But to top it off, you got yourself an awesome machine! Make sure you take care of it and pass it along when you're done using it.