Wheel Bearing Press & Replacement
GEN 1, GEN 2 & GEN 3 – wheel bearing replacement directly on the vehicle, without axle removal, with hydraulic assistance.
The Problem — Replace wheel bearings without removing the axle
Defective wheel bearings manifest as growling, humming or play in the wheel suspension. Classic bearing service requires removing the steering knuckle and a hydraulic press – time-consuming and expensive.
Modern vehicles have wheel bearings of 1st, 2nd and 3rd generation: separable bearing/hub (GEN 1), pressed compact units (GEN 2) and units bolted to the axle carrier (GEN 3).
The PICHLER Solution — Wheel bearing service on the vehicle
PICHLER offers dedicated starter kits for all three wheel bearing generations that enable bearing service directly on the vehicle without axle removal.
The hydraulic solution with 22t cylinder and air-hydraulic foot pump delivers controlled press-fit pressure without physical effort – even in confined spaces.
- GEN 1: Standard wheel bearing/hub separable – press-in/out tool directly on vehicle
- GEN 2: Compact wheel bearing (pressed) – Ø 62 / 66 / 72 / 75 mm
- GEN 3: Bolted to axle carrier (3- or 4-bolt), GEN 1 & 2 compatible
- 22t hydraulic cylinder: push & pull with impact effect
- Air-hydraulic foot pump 700 bar: one-man operation, CEJN
- All kits universally designed for passenger cars
Three generations – one system
The PICHLER GEN system covers all common wheel bearing designs. Starter kits are modular – base components for all generations, adapters extend the system.
Combined with the 22t hydraulic cylinder and the air-hydraulic foot pump, a complete professional wheel bearing service system for the modern workshop.
The PICHLER Wheel Bearing System
Wheel Bearing Tool GEN 1
Universal set for standard wheel bearings & hubs GEN 1 – separable, directly on vehicle
Art. no. 91469155
Wheel Bearing Starter Kit GEN 2
For compact wheel bearings – Ø 62/66/72/75 mm – with crossbar, directly on vehicle
Art. no. 91469600
Wheel Bearing Starter Kit GEN 3
For wheel bearings bolted to axle carrier – GEN 1 & GEN 2 compatible
Art. no. 91490145
Hydraulic Cylinder 22 t
Push & pull, incl. impact body M22x2.5 – combinable with all car tools & tie rods M10–M22
Art. no. 90251260
Air-Hydraulic Foot Pump 700 bar
One-man operation, 3 m hose, CEJN connection – saves force & time
Art. no. 80255570
Frequently asked questions
Which wheel bearing tool is suitable for GEN 1, GEN 2 and GEN 3?
PICHLER offers universal wheel bearing tool sets covering all three generations (GEN 1, GEN 2, GEN 3). The included adapters allow use on the most common European, Asian and American vehicle models.
What is the difference between hydraulic and mechanical wheel bearing pressing?
Mechanical pressing tools are suitable for occasional work and are more cost-effective. Hydraulic systems require less effort, operate more evenly and are better suited for frequent use in professional workshops.
Why do wheel bearings often break during removal?
Over time, wheel bearings corrode heavily due to moisture and salt, bonding firmly to the hub. Without suitable specialty tools, impacts or uneven forces during removal often cause fractures.
Can I replace wheel bearings without specialty tools?
Theoretically possible, but not recommended. Without specialty tools there is a risk of damaging the new bearing during pressing or incorrect positioning, leading to premature wear or safety hazards.
How do I recognise defective wheel bearings?
Typical signs include driving noises (humming or droning that changes with speed), steering wheel vibrations or increased steering play when cornering. If in doubt, jack up the vehicle and check the wheel for play.
What force is applied when pressing in wheel bearings?
Depending on the vehicle model, forces of 5 to 30 kN are required when pressing in wheel bearings. PICHLER wheel bearing tools are designed for these requirements and enable controlled, even pressing.
Wheel bearing tools for your workshop
All GEN 1 / GEN 2 / GEN 3 starter kits and hydraulic accessories at a glance.
Discover wheel bearing tools