Pullers

About Pullers

Pullers are indispensable mechanical tools designed to safely extract tightly-fitted components such as bearings, gears, pulleys, and bushings from shafts and housings. Whether you're working on automotive repairs, industrial machinery maintenance, or engineering tasks, the comprehensive range at MyToolShed.co.uk includes everything from two-leg and three-leg reversible gear pullers to hydraulic puller kits, bearing separators, and slide hammers. Featuring professional-grade options from leading brands including Facom, Draper, and Sealey, these tools deliver controlled force to remove stubborn components without causing damage.

Modern pullers combine robust construction with intelligent design features such as reversible jaws for internal and external pulling, self-centring mechanisms for even force distribution, and quick-adjustment systems. Specialist pullers are engineered for particular applications—including VW coil-on-plug systems, ball joints, and wheel hubs—ensuring proper fit and reducing the risk of expensive component damage during removal. Capacities range from light-duty workshop pullers through to heavy industrial hydraulic systems capable of generating up to 10 tonnes of pulling force.

Applications

Pullers are essential tools for numerous trades and industries:

• Motor Vehicle Technicians: Removing bearings, gears, pulleys, ball joints, and steering components during automotive servicing
• Agricultural Engineers: Maintaining farm machinery, tractors, and harvesting equipment where bearings require regular replacement
• Plant Maintenance Engineers: Servicing industrial machinery, conveyor systems, pumps, and manufacturing equipment
• HGV and Plant Mechanics: Working on heavy goods vehicles and construction equipment with large-capacity bearings
• Marine Engineers: Maintaining boat engines and marine equipment where corrosion complicates component removal
• Bicycle Mechanics: Removing bottom brackets, bearings, and pressed-in components from frames
• DIY Enthusiasts: Tackling home vehicle maintenance and restoration projects requiring professional tools

Choosing The Right Pullers

Identify Your Applications: General workshop use typically requires quality two-leg and three-leg reversible puller sets, whilst specialist automotive work benefits from application-specific pullers. A comprehensive bearing separator and puller set provides maximum versatility across varied tasks.

Assess Required Capacity: Light automotive and general workshop tasks typically need 2-5 tonne capacity pullers, whilst industrial machinery maintenance may demand hydraulic pullers rated at 10-20 tonnes. Check both maximum pulling force and jaw spread capacity to ensure proper component fit.

Consider Jaw Configuration: Two-leg pullers excel in confined spaces, whilst three-leg pullers offer superior stability and force distribution for larger components. Reversible designs tackle both internal and external pulling with a single tool, offering excellent value.

Evaluate Build Quality: Professional-grade pullers from brands stocked at MyToolShed.co.uk feature hardened steel construction, precision-machined threads, and heat-treated components that withstand repeated high-stress use without deformation or failure.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses when using pullers, as sudden component release can propel parts at high velocity. Inspect tools before each use for cracked jaws, bent legs, or damaged threads—never exceed the manufacturer's rated capacity. Ensure puller jaws are securely positioned with even contact around components, and apply force gradually whilst monitoring the setup. Secure workpieces properly and keep hands clear of the direct line of force. Replace worn or damaged components immediately, as continued use creates serious safety hazards in accordance with HSE workshop safety guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between two-leg and three-leg pullers?

Two-leg pullers work well in confined spaces and for smaller components, whilst three-leg pullers provide more stable, evenly-distributed force for larger items and reduce the risk of components slipping during extraction. Many tradespeople keep both types available for different situations.

Do I need vehicle-specific pullers or will universal pullers work?

Universal pullers handle most general workshop tasks effectively. However, vehicle-specific pullers designed for applications like VW coil-on-plug systems or particular ball joint configurations ensure proper fitment, reduce the risk of component damage, and make challenging jobs significantly easier if you regularly service specific vehicle makes.

Why won't my puller extract a bearing?

Common issues include insufficient pulling capacity, improper jaw positioning, or corrosion creating excessive resistance. Ensure jaws are positioned correctly with even contact, apply penetrating lubricant, or carefully heat the surrounding housing to expand it slightly. If the component still won't move, you may need a higher-capacity puller or hydraulic assistance.