How To Fix Bowflex Selecttech 552 Dumbbells

If your Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells are acting up, you’re not alone. This guide will show you how to fix Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells with clear, step-by-step instructions. Many common issues, like stuck plates or a broken dial, can be resolved at home with basic tools and a little patience. Let’s get your weights working again so you can get back to your routine without the frustration or cost of a full replacement.

Before you start any repair, it’s crucial to understand how the 552s work. Each dumbbell has a dial you turn to select your weight. Inside, a series of selector plates engage or disengage the weight plates based on your chosen number. When something goes wrong, it’s usually because these internal parts are dirty, worn, or out of alignment. Safety first: always work on a clean, flat surface and keep track of all screws and small parts.

Common Problems and Quick Checks

First, identify your specific issue. This saves you time and helps you focus on the right fix. Here are the most frequent problems:

Plates won’t engage or lock on one or both sides.
Weight plates are stuck and won’t release.
The dial spins freely without clicking into place.
You hear a grinding or rattling noise when shaking the dumbbell.
A visible gap between the handle and the end weight plate.

For a quick check, try this. Dial the selector to 25 pounds. Lift the dumbbell by the handle. Gently shake it. All unselected plates should swing freely. If they don’t, they’re likely stuck. Also, inspect the dial for any visible cracks or damage—this is a common failure point.

Tools You Will Need for Repair

You don’t need a full mechanic’s set. Most fixes require just a few items:

Phillips head screwdriver (size #2).
Clean cloth or paper towels.
Silicone-based lubricant spray (DO NOT use WD-40 as it attracts dust).
A small container for holding screws.
Needle-nose pliers can be helpful for removing debris.

Step-by-Step Repair for Stuck Weight Plates

This is the most common issue. Dirt, dust, and old grease can cause plates to stick together.

Set the dial to 25 pounds to disengage all plates.
Lay the dumbbell on its side on a towel.
Look for the three long screws on the end of the dumbbell. Carefully remove them with your Phillips screwdriver.
Gently slide the outer shell off. You will now see the stack of weight plates and the central rod.
Wipe down each individual weight plate with a dry cloth. Remove any visible grime or clumped grease.
Lightly spray the silicone lubricant on the center rod and on the sides of each plate where they touch.
Manually work each plate back and forth to ensure they move independently.
Reassemble the shell and tighten the three screws firmly. Test the dial through all settings.

If Plates Are Still Stuck After Cleaning

Sometimes, the selector pins inside get jammed. After removing the shell as in the steps above, turn the dial and watch the small metal selector plates. They should move in and out smoothly. If one is stuck, a tiny drop of lubricant on its slide mechanism can free it. Be very careful not to bend these.

Fixing a Broken or Loose Dial

A spinning dial that doesn’t click usually means broken internal tabs. The dial assembly itself might need replacement.

Remove the three end screws and the outer shell as before.
You will see the white plastic dial mechanism attached with several smaller screws.
Unscrew these and carefully lift the dial assembly out. Note its orientation.
Inspect the plastic star-shaped piece underneath the dial. If the teeth are worn or broken, this is the culprit. Bowflex sells a “Dial Repair Kit” for the 552 model, which includes this part.
Replace the worn part with the new one from the kit, following the included instructions.
Reassemble everything in the reverse order. The dial should now click firmly into each position.

Dealing with Grinding Noises and Gaps

A grinding noise often points to a problem with the metal selector plates inside. They might be rubbing against the weight plates. A gap between the handle and end plate usually indicates the internal spring has failed or the screws are loose.

For noise: Open the shell and look for shiny, worn spots on the metal selectors. Lightly file down any burrs with a metal file and apply a tiny bit of lubricant.
For a gap: Tighten all three end screws securely. If the gap remains, the internal spring may be broken. You can order a new spring from Bowflex customer service.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

A little care prevents most major repairs. Follow these simple tips to keep your 552s in top shape for years.

Store them on a clean, dry surface, not directly on concrete floors which create dust.
Wipe them down with a dry cloth after each use to remove sweat and skin oils.
Every 6 months, perform a quick clean and lubricate as described in the stuck plates section.
Avoid dropping the dumbbells, especially on the dial side, as this can crack the housing.
Always turn the dial with the dumbbell on the stand, not while holding it in the air.

When to Contact Bowflex Support

Some problems are beyound a simple home fix. If you encounter the following, it’s time to reach out for professional help or replacement parts.

A cracked or broken handle or main housing.
Severely bent internal rods or selector plates.
You’ve performed all repairs but the problem persists.
Your model is still under warranty (usually 2 years).

Have your model number (552) and serial number ready when you call. They can provide specific repair kits for a reasonable price, which is often cheaper than buying new dumbbells.

FAQ: Bowflex 552 Dumbbell Repair

Can I use WD-40 on my Bowflex 552s?
No. WD-40 is a penetrant and degreaser, not a lubricant. It will dry out and attract more dust, making sticking worse. Always use a silicone-based lubricant.

Where can I buy replacement parts?
The official Bowflex website has a parts store. You can find dial assemblies, springs, and even individual weight plates they’re for sale.

My dumbbell is stuck on a high weight, what do I do?
Try setting the dial to the highest weight (52.5) and then back down to 25. This can sometimes re-engage the mechanism. If that fails, you’ll need to open the shell to manually free the selector pins.

Are the 552 dumbbells hard to fix?
Not really. Most repairs involve just a screwdriver and some cleaning. The design is relatively simple once you open it up. Take pictures as you disassemble to help with reassembly.

How long should these dumbbells last?
With proper care and occasional maintenance, Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells can last for well over a decade. The main wear items are the plastic dial parts and the springs, which are replaceable.

By following this guide, you can solve the majority of issues with your Bowflex 552s. Remember, regular cleaning is the best way to avoid problems. Now you have the knowledge to keep your home gym running smoothly and avoid interuptions in your fitness journey.