Bearing pullers are specialized mechanical tools that pull the bearings off of axle shafts. Although there are many different types and designs, they all work on the same principle. A set of jaws will hook onto the outer sides of a bearing lining or bearing case. Bearing pullers with jaws that hook onto the inside of a bearing lining are called a "blind-hole bearing puller." A central bolt or a slide hammer is then used to put reverse pressure onto the jaws that grip the bearing lining until it comes off and away from the axle.
Measure the diameter of the bearing that needs to be removed. Bearing pullers come in several different sizes so be sure to acquire the correct size bearing puller for your needs.. They can be rented from any auto or hardware store.
Unscrew the center bolt with your hand. Place the bearing puller over the bearing to be pulled off. On pullers with jaws, line up the center puller bolt onto the shaft and place the jaws behind the bearing. On blind hole pullers, insert the jaws into the inner diameter of the bearing lining. Turn the center shaft to spread the jaws and grasp the bearing.
Position the shaft of the puller onto the axle shaft. Turn the bearing puller shaft clockwise with a wrench. Continue turning until the bearing is pulled completely off. On a bearing puller with a slide hammer, once the jaws are in place, pull back forcefully on the hammer to unseat the bearing.
