How To Unjam Bowflex Dumbbells

If you own a set of Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells, you know how convenient they are. But when they jam, it can be incredibly frustrating. This guide will show you how to unjam Bowflex dumbbells with clear, simple steps. Let’s get your weights working again so you can get back to your routine without delay.

Before you start, it’s important to understand why these dumbbells jam. The mechanism uses a dial to select weight. Plastic selector pins engage with holes in the weight plates. A jam happens when these pins get stuck, often due to dirt, a misaligned pin, or worn parts.

What You’ll Need

Gather these items first. Having them ready makes the process smoother.

A clean, flat workspace (like a floor mat or table)
A can of compressed air (key for cleaning)
Light machine oil or silicone lubricant (like 3-in-1 oil)
A soft cloth or paper towels
A small flashlight (to see inside the mechanism)
A rubber mallet (optional, for gentle taps)

Step-by-Step Unjamming Process

Follow these steps in order. Don’t force anything, as that can cause more damage.

Step 1: Safety First and Initial Check

Always set the dumbbell on a stable, flat surface. Never try to fix it while holding it in the air. Check that the dial turns freely and isn’t obstructed by anything. Look for obvious cracks or broken pieces on the casing.

Step 2: Dial to the Lowest Weight Setting

Turn the selector dial to the lowest weight, usually 5 or 10 pounds. This retracts the pins as much as possible. Sometimes, just doing this while the dumbbell is flat can help release a minor jam. Give the dial a few turns back and forth gently.

Step 3: Apply Compressed Air

This is the most effective step. With the dial on the low setting, use the straw attachment on your compressed air can. Blow air directly into the small holes and gaps around the dial and the seam where the two halves of the dumbbell meet. This dislodges dust and debris that’s causing the pins to stick.

Step 4: Gentle Percussive Maintenance

If air alone doesn’t work, carefully lift the dumbbell a few inches off your mat. Let it drop flat onto its side. Do this a 2-3 times. You can also use the heel of your hand or a rubber mallet to give the side a firm, but not hard, tap. The goal is to vibrate the internal mechanism loose.

Step 5: Lubricate the Mechanism

After using air, apply light lubricant. Put a small drop of oil into the pin holes on the weight plates. Also, put a drop around the base of the selector dial. Turn the dial through all settings several times to work the oil in. Wipe away any excess oil immediately.

Step 6: Final Test and Reset

Set the dumbbell down flat. Slowly turn the dial through each weight setting. Listen for smooth clicks. At each setting, try to lift a weight plate slightly to see if it’s engaged. If it works, do a test lift with a light weight to ensure it’s secure.

What to Do If It’s Still Jammed

If the basic steps fail, the problem might be more serious. Don’t worry, there’s still a few things you can try before calling for help.

Check for Weight Plate Obstructions: Look for small objects, like a pebble or gym chalk, stuck between the plates. Use your flashlight to see clearly.
Inspect the Selector Pins: As you turn the dial, watch the pins inside the handle. See if they all move in and out together. One bent or stuck pin is often the culprit.
Even Weight Distribution: Always store your dumbbells on a level surface. Leaving them leaning can cause internal alignment issues over time.

Preventing Future Jams

Regular maintenance is much easier than fixing a bad jam. Make these habits part of your routine.

Monthly Cleaning: Once a month, use compressed air to blow out the dial and plate areas. This prevents buildup.
Quarterly Lubrication: Every few months, apply a drop of oil as described in Step 5. This keeps the pins moving smoothly.
Proper Storage: Always place the dumbbells on their provided tray or a flat, clean surface. Never drop them.
Gentle Use: Turn the dials slowly and deliberately. Avoid slamming or forcing the dial when changing weights.

When to Contact Bowflex Customer Service

Sometimes, a jam is due to a broken part. If you see any of the following, it’s time to reach out for support.

A visibly cracked or broken plastic casing.
A selector pin that is clearly bent or missing.
If the internal mechanism makes a grinding noise or feels completely loose.
If your dumbbells are still under warranty, attempting a complex repair yourself might void it.

Have your model number and serial number ready when you call. They are usually located on the bottom of the dumbbell or the storage tray.

FAQ: Fixing Bowflex Dumbbell Problems

Here are quick answers to common questions about Bowflex dumbbell issues.

Why did my Bowflex dumbbells jam in the first place?

The most common cause is dust and sweat buildup inside the mechanism. Over time, this grit acts like glue. Other causes include rough handling, dropping the dumbbell, or a manufacturing defect in the pins.

Can I use WD-40 on my Bowflex dumbbells?

It’s not recommended. WD-40 is a penetrant and water displacer, not a long-term lubricant. It can attract more dust. A light machine oil or silicone-based lubricant is a much better choice for lasting protection.

Is it safe to use a hammer to fix a jam?

No, using a metal hammer directly on the plastic casing is a bad idea. You could crack it. If you need to tap it, use the palm of your hand or a rubber mallet for gentle impact. The “drop” method on a soft mat is safer.

My dial spins freely but doesn’t change the weight. What’s wrong?

This usually indicates that the internal connection between the dial and the pin assembly has failed or become disconnected. This typically requires professional repair or replacement from Bowflex.

How often should I clean my adjustable dumbbells?

For most home gym users, a quick blast of air every month and a light oiling every 3-4 months is sufficient. If you use them daily or in a dusty environment, you might need to clean them more frequently.

Can I take the dumbbell apart to fix it?

Opening the sealed casing is very difficult without special tools and can void your warranty. It’s generally advised to try external cleaning methods first and contact customer service before attempting any disassembly yourself.

Dealing with jammed weights can be a hassle, but it’s usually a fixable problem. By following this guide on how to unjam Bowflex dumbbells, you can solve most issues in under ten minutes. Remember, the key is regular, simple maintenance. Keeping the mechanism clean and lightly lubricated will prevent most jams and ensure your versatile dumbbells last for many years of great workouts. Now you can get back to lifting with confidence.