An internal bearing puller grips the bearing from inside the bore when there is no outside lip for standard jaws. It usually uses an expanding collet, a blind-hole attachment, or a slide-hammer connection. The correct collet must match the bearing's inside diameter and grip solidly before force is applied.
An internal bearing puller grips the bearing from inside the bore when there is no outside lip for standard jaws. It usually uses an expanding collet, a blind-hole attachment, or a slide-hammer connection. The correct collet must match the bearing's inside diameter and grip solidly before force is applied.
Use an internal puller for bearings seated in blind housings, hubs, gearboxes, motors, and other cavities where the outer race cannot be reached. It is especially useful when preserving the housing is more important than reusing the bearing.
Each expanding collet has a working diameter range. Measure the bearing bore with a suitable gauge and choose a collet that expands within the middle of its range when possible. A collet at its extreme limit may not provide reliable contact.
A blind-hole bearing has no exit path behind it, so the puller must draw it toward the open side. A through hole may allow alternative pushing or pressing methods. Confirm the housing geometry before selecting a slide hammer or bridge-style puller.
A slide hammer can work for smaller bearings with short, controlled impacts. A bridge and forcing screw give a steadier axial pull and are preferable where the housing is delicate or the bearing is tightly seated. Do not use impact force when the service manual requires a press method.
Insert the collet fully into the bearing bore, then tighten the expander so the segments contact evenly. Pull back lightly to confirm engagement before assembling the rest of the tool. The collet must grip the race, not a seal, cage, or loose debris.
Align the bridge or puller body with the bore centerline. Side loading can score the housing, deform the collet, or cause it to release. Support the component and keep the pulling axis straight throughout the movement.
Use clean contact surfaces and the correct support pads. If a bearing does not move, stop before the housing is marked or cracked. Penetrant, controlled heating where approved, or a different attachment may be needed before additional force.
If the collet slips, verify the diameter, remove oil or rust from the bore, and check that the expander is fully seated. If the bearing is damaged or collapsed, a specialized extractor may be required. Avoid prying between the bearing and housing.
A practical set covers the bore sizes used in your workshop and includes compatible bridges, forcing screws, and slide-hammer connections. DNT Tools can help match internal bearing puller ranges and accessories to the housings and bearing sizes your team services most often.
For an application-specific puller setup, contact DNT Tools support.
