If your Bowflex adjustable dumbbells are stuck, you’re probably frustrated. This guide will show you how to unstick Bowflex dumbbells with a simple repair process. It’s a common issue, but often an easy fix you can do at home with basic tools.
Don’t force them or risk injury. Let’s get your weights working smoothly again so you can get back to your routine without missing a beat.
How To Unstick Bowflex Dumbbells
Before you start any repair, safety is the top priority. Always place the dumbbells on a stable, flat surface, not on a bench or uneven ground. Make sure the dials are set to the lowest weight setting before you begin any troubleshooting steps.
Gathering a few simple items will make the job much easier. You likely have most of these around the house already.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- A clean, dry cloth or towel
- A can of compressed air (like for cleaning electronics)
- A silicone-based lubricant spray (WD-40 Specialist Silicone is a good choice)
- A small plastic or rubber mallet (a regular hammer with a cloth over the head works too, but be gentle)
- A flat-head screwdriver
- A vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment
Step-by-Step Repair Guide
Follow these steps in order. The simplest solutions are first, and we’ll move to more involved steps only if needed.
Step 1: Basic Cleaning and Inspection
Often, dirt and dust are the main culprits. Start by wiping down the entire dumbbell with your dry cloth. Pay close attention to the dial mechanism and the seams where the plates connect.
Next, use the vacuum hose to suck out any visible debris from the dial numbers and around the selector plates. Then, use short bursts of compressed air to dislodge finer particles that the vacuum missed. Do this outside or over a trash can.
Step 2: The Gentle Tap Method
If cleaning doesn’t work, the internal plates might be slightly misaligned. With the dial set to the lowest weight, hold the dumbbell upright in one hand.
Use your rubber mallet or the palm of your other hand to give the side of the selector dial a few firm, but controlled, taps. Rotate the dumbbell and tap all around the dial. Try turning the dial after each series of taps. This can jostle the plates back into their correct position.
Step 3: Apply Lubricant
If tapping doesn’t free it, it’s time to lubricate. Do not use a grease or oil-based lubricant, as these attract more dirt. Use the silicone spray.
Insert the spray straw into the small gap between the dial and the main body of the dumbbell. Give it a short, one-second burst while slowly turning the dial. Wipe away any excess spray immediately with your cloth. Work the dial back and forth through the stuck range several times.
Step 4: Checking for Obstructions
If it’s still stuck, look for a foreign object. Examine the weight plates slots on the side of the dumbbell. Sometimes a small piece of plastic, a pebble, or other debris can get wedged in there.
Use your flat-head screwdriver very carefully to pry out any visible obstruction. Do not scratch or gouge the metal. Be patient and gentle during this step to avoid causing more damage.
Step 5: The Full Reset Procedure
This is the most comprehensive fix. Place the dumbbell on it’s side on your towel. Starting at the lowest setting, use your mallet to tap the selector dial counter-clockwise (as if you were trying to turn it to an even lower number). Sometimes the internal mechanism gets over-rotated and needs to be reset.
After a series of taps counter-clockwise, try to turn it clockwise through all the settings. Repeat this process 2-3 times. This full reset has solved many stubborn cases where simpler methods have failed.
What to Do If Nothing Works
If you’ve tried all the steps above and the dumbbell remains completely stuck, the issue may be internal. The internal plastic gears or the selector pins could be broken. This is less common, but it does happen, especially with older models or from a significant drop.
At this point, your best options are to contact Bowflex customer support. They have detailed guides and may offer a repair or replacement if your dumbbells are still under warranty. Always have your model number (usually on the bottom) and proof of purchase ready when you call.
Preventing Future Problems
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Bowflex dumbbells functioning perfectly for years. A little care goes a long way.
- Store Them Properly: Always place them on the stand or on a flat, clean surface. Never leave them on the floor where they can be kicked or collect dust.
- Clean Regularly: Once a month, wipe them down and use compressed air around the dial.
- Lubricate Periodically: Every 3-6 months, apply a tiny bit of silicone lubricant as described in Step 3. This prevents the plastic parts from drying out and binding.
- Handle with Care: Avoid dropping the dumbbells or slamming them together. The internal components are durable, but they are not indestructible.
- Use Correctly: Always ensure the dial is clicked fully into a number, not between settings, before lifting.
FAQ: Common Bowflex Dumbbell Issues
Q: My Bowflex dumbbell dial turns but the weight doesn’t change. What’s wrong?
A: This usually indicates broken selector pins inside the handle. They’re plastic and can snap. This requires opening the handle or contacting Bowflex for service.
Q: Can I use WD-40 to fix my stuck Bowflex weights?
A: No. Standard WD-40 is a penetrant and water displacer, not a long-term lubricant. It can actually attract more dust and gum up the mechanism. Always use a dry silicone lubricant for this specific application.
Q: Why did one of my dumbbells get stuck but not the other?
A: It’s often just chance based on how they were stored or handled. One might have been exposed to more dust or had a slight impact. Always maintain both equally, even if only one is having problems.
Q: Is it safe to use my dumbbells if they are slightly sticky when turning the dial?
A: It’s not recommended. A sticky dial can mean the internal plates aren’t fully engaged or disengaged. This could cause a plate to become loose during exercise, creating a safety risk. Fix the issue before using them again.
Q: How often should I perform maintenance on my adjustible dumbbells?
A: A quick visual check and wipe-down every few weeks is good. A more thorough cleaning and lubrication every 3 to 6 months is sufficient for most home gym environments.
Final Thoughts
A stuck Bowflex dumbbell is an inconvenience, but it’s rarely a permanent one. In most cases, the problem is just dirt or a minor misalignment that you can fix in under ten minutes. By following this guide, you’ve learned a valuable maintenance skill that will extend the life of your equipment.
Remember, consistent, simple care is the best way to avoid these issues altogether. Keep your weights clean, store them properly, and give them a little lubrication now and then. Now you can get back to your workout with confidence, knowing you can handle this common problem.