Removing a stubborn wheel hub or bearing is one of the most challenging tasks in automotive repair. Without the right tool, you risk damaging expensive components like the axle shaft or steering knuckle, turning a simple job into a costly and time-consuming nightmare. A dedicated hub puller kit applies controlled, mechanical force to safely separate seized parts, protecting your vehicle and saving you immense frustration.
Whether you are a professional mechanic in a busy shop or a dedicated DIYer working in a home garage, having the correct hub puller is essential. The market offers a wide array of options, from comprehensive master kits for various vehicles to specialized tools for specific applications. This roundup will help you navigate the choices and find the perfect hub puller kit to tackle your next project with confidence and efficiency.
Our Top Picks for Hub Puller Kits
- Orion Motor Tech Heavy Duty Hub Puller Kit with Hydraulic Ram
- Orion Motor Tech 9-Way Slide Hammer Puller Set
- ABN Wheel Bearing Puller Kit Hub Removal Tool
- Orion Motor Tech Wheel Hub Removal Tool Kit for 5 6 8 Lug
- Orion Motor Tech 5 Ton Capacity Bearing Puller Set
- Lupar Wheel Bearing Hub Removal Tools Kit
- Orion Motor Tech Wheel Hub Buster Puller with Carrying Case
- Powerbuilt Master Hub Puller Tool Set for Ford and Mercury
- OTC 7395 Hub Grappler Front Wheel Drive Hub Installer
Orion Motor Tech Heavy Duty Hub Puller Kit with Hydraulic Ram
For the most stubborn hub removal jobs on large vehicles, the Orion Motor Tech Heavy Duty Kit is a formidable solution. Its 20-piece set is built around a powerful hydraulic ram, which provides the immense force needed to break loose seized components that mechanical pullers can’t handle. This makes it an ideal tool for quick roadside fixes on commercial trucks or for high-volume use in a professional repair shop environment.
The kit is designed for damage-free operation. The five adjustable legs feature rotating apertures that lock securely onto the hub, providing a solid grip without scratching studs or harming nearby parts. With its wide compatibility for hubs with up to 5 studs, this puller set works seamlessly on a variety of passenger cars and commercial vehicles, offering both power and precision.
Orion Motor Tech 9-Way Slide Hammer Puller Set
Versatility is the key feature of the Orion Motor Tech 9-Way Slide Hammer Puller Set. This kit is not limited to just wheel hubs; it is ideal for a multitude of pulling applications. You can use it on flange-type rear axles, most front-wheel-drive hubs, and even for pulling dents or other press-fit parts like bearings, bushings, gears, and pulleys.
The set includes both 2-jaw and 3-jaw pullers for internal and external work, providing the right configuration for most tasks. Built from rugged carbon steel alloy and chrome vanadium steel, this tool kit is made to withstand accidental drops and years of heavy use without cracking or rusting, making it a durable and reliable addition to any toolbox.
ABN Wheel Bearing Puller Kit Hub Removal Tool
The ABN Wheel Bearing Puller Kit offers a safer and more controlled alternative to traditional methods. This tool allows you to remove and install wheel hub and bearing assemblies without resorting to a less safe hammer or a bulky shop press. Its self-centering mechanism and thrust bearing design ensure a smooth, even application of force.
This universal tool is designed for front, rear, and all-wheel drive vehicles with independent suspension and pressed roller-ball bearings. It is particularly compatible with a wide range of European and Asian vehicles. To use it, you select the round plate that matches your bearing’s diameter and turn the long screw to pull the bearing out, then reverse the process to press in a new one.
Orion Motor Tech Wheel Hub Removal Tool Kit for 5 6 8 Lug
This Orion Motor Tech kit is a comprehensive solution for standard hub removal on cars and trucks. The set includes a remover plate, forcing screw, screw assembly, and two washers, providing everything you need for faster and safer hub removal. Its straightforward design makes it efficient for both professionals and home mechanics.
A primary benefit of this tool is its ability to perform damage-free hub removal. It safely pulls even the most stubborn wheel hubs without damaging your axle. Engineered for strength, it is crafted from AISI 1045 and 40Cr steel with a corrosion-resistant finish, and the heat-treated forcing screw delivers extra durability for tough jobs on vehicles with 5, 6, or 8 lug hubs.
Orion Motor Tech 5 Ton Capacity Bearing Puller Set
When you need to remove bearings from shafts, the Orion Motor Tech Bearing Puller Set is the tool for the job. This versatile bearing separator set enables you to complete a wide range of pulling tasks, ideal for removing large or small bearings on front and rear wheel hub axle shafts, as well as gears, pulleys, and steering wheels.
The all-in-one kit includes a 3″ and a 2″ bearing separator jaw, a yoke, forcing screws, extension screws, and L-type legs. With a 5-ton capacity, the two bearing splitter jaws are built to withstand punishing use, making this set suitable for both professionals and home mechanics working on most vehicles, ATVs, and light trucks.
Lupar Wheel Bearing Hub Removal Tools Kit
The Lupar Wheel Bearing Hub Removal Tool is designed for universal compatibility, fitting a wide range of vehicle makes and models. This tool is compatible with most 5, 6, and 8 lug hubs, making it a versatile choice for mechanics and DIY enthusiasts who need a precise fit for various axle bolted hubs.
Crafted from high-quality, corrosion-resistant materials, this tool set guarantees longevity and consistent performance. The reinforced hub shocker is built to withstand heavy hammer strikes, ensuring reliable use even under demanding conditions. Its precision engineering minimizes the risk of damage to the axle shaft or steering knuckle during the removal and installation process.
Orion Motor Tech Wheel Hub Buster Puller with Carrying Case
This Orion Motor Tech Wheel Hub Buster is another excellent option for standard hub removal. The comprehensive tool set includes a remover plate, forcing screw, screw assembly, and two washers, ensuring you have all the necessary components for an efficient job. The inclusion of a carrying case adds convenience for storage and transportation.
The tool is engineered for damage-free hub removal, allowing you to remove stubborn wheel hubs quickly without harming the axle. Its heavy-duty build, using AISI 1045 and 40Cr steel with a corrosion-resistant black oxide finish, promises long-lasting performance. The heat-treated forcing screw and screw assembly provide extra strength for the most challenging tasks on 5, 6, or 8 lug hubs.
Powerbuilt Master Hub Puller Tool Set for Ford and Mercury
For owners of specific Ford and Mercury models, the Powerbuilt Master Hub Puller is a purpose-built solution. This tool is specially made to remove and install hubs and axles on vehicles like the Ford Taurus, Tempo, Escort, and Mercury Topaz and Lynx, ensuring a perfect fit and effective performance.
The kit features a dual puller system, with separate hub pullers included for both front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive applications. Operation is straightforward: the tool attaches directly to the wheel studs, and you simply turn the center screw to quickly and safely disengage the axle shaft from the hub, making it a reliable choice for these specific vehicles.
OTC 7395 Hub Grappler Front Wheel Drive Hub Installer
While most tools on this list focus on removal, the OTC 7395 Hub Grappler addresses the other critical half of the job: installation. This tool is specifically designed for installing front wheel drive hubs, bearings, and seals. Proper installation is just as important as removal to ensure the longevity and safe operation of the new components.
The Hub Grappler helps you press new parts into place accurately and evenly, preventing damage that can occur from improper hammering or misalignment. By providing a controlled and secure method for installation, this tool completes your hub service toolkit, allowing you to perform the entire job to a professional standard.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Hub Puller Kit
When you’re dealing with a stubborn hub, bearing, or gear, having the right tool for the job isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. I’ve learned the hard way that trying to improvise can lead to damaged components or, worse, personal injury. That’s why investing in a proper hub puller kit is a smart move for anyone who turns their own wrenches. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one? Let me walk you through the key things I look for.
First, consider the type of puller. The most common and versatile style for automotive work is the two or three-jaw puller. These are great for grabbing onto gears or pulleys. For hub and bearing work, especially on front-wheel-drive cars, a dedicated hub puller or a slide hammer-style puller is often required. These are designed to apply force directly to the hub assembly without damaging the surrounding parts. Some of the best hub puller kits for automotive work are actually combination kits that include multiple puller types and adapters, giving you the flexibility to tackle a wide range of jobs.
Next, pay close attention to build quality and materials. This is not a tool you want to cheap out on. Look for pullers made from forged or heat-treated steel. The threads on the forcing screw should be clean and robust. A poorly made puller can strip under pressure or, in a worst-case scenario, shatter, sending metal shards flying. I always check customer reviews for mentions of broken jaws or bent components to get a real-world sense of a kit’s durability.
Another critical factor is versatility and capacity. What vehicles will you be working on? A small, light-duty puller might be fine for a motorcycle or a lawnmower, but it won’t stand a chance against the seized hub on a full-size truck. Check the kit’s specifications for its reach (how far the jaws can extend) and its spread (how wide the jaws can open). Also, see what accessories are included. A good kit will come with various pushing attachments, different-sized jaws, and maybe even a slide hammer. This expands the number of tasks you can handle without needing to buy another specialized tool.
Finally, think about ease of use and safety. Features like a swivel head on the forcing screw can make the tool easier to position in tight spaces. Some kits include a knurled grip or a tommy bar (a metal rod) for applying torque. Always ensure you have a clear understanding of how to set up the puller correctly to avoid slippage. Using a puller feels like it requires brute force, but it’s really about controlled, steady pressure. A quality tool makes that process much safer and more effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular gear puller on a wheel hub?
Generally, no. A standard two or three-jaw gear puller isn’t designed for the specific forces and fitment of a wheel hub. Using one can easily damage the hub, the bearing, or the CV joint. Hub assemblies are often pressed onto the axle or spindle and require a tool that applies force directly and evenly to the hub itself, not by grabbing onto its outer edges. This is why a dedicated hub puller kit is so important; it’s engineered for this exact application to get the job done without causing costly damage.
What’s the difference between a push-type and a slide-hammer hub puller?
This is a great question, as both are common. A push-type puller, often found in a standard kit, uses a large central screw (the forcing screw) that you tighten to push against the axle, thereby pulling the hub off. It’s a controlled, steady application of force. A slide-hammer puller has a weighted handle that you slide forcefully along a shaft to deliver sharp, impactful blows to the hub. Slide hammers are often more effective for hubs that are severely rusted or seized, as the impact can help break the corrosion bond. Many comprehensive kits will include adapters to use with both methods.
Are universal hub puller kits worth it, or should I buy a vehicle-specific tool?
For most home mechanics and even many professionals, a high-quality universal kit is absolutely worth it. The best hub puller kits for automotive work are designed to be adjustable and come with a wide array of adapters and attachments to fit a huge range of makes and models. Buying a vehicle-specific tool might be slightly more convenient for that one job, but it becomes a paperweight once you work on a different car. A universal kit is a one-time investment that will pay for itself over and over again as you use it on various projects.
I’m just a DIYer. Do I really need a professional-grade hub puller?
You don’t necessarily need the most expensive professional brand, but you absolutely should avoid the absolute cheapest options. The forces involved in pulling a hub are immense, and a failure of the tool can be dangerous. Look for a mid-range kit from a reputable tool brand with good user reviews. As a DIYer, you might not use it every day, but when you need it, you need a tool that you can trust to work safely and effectively. Think of it as an insurance policy against damaging your vehicle or hurting yourself.
My hub puller keeps slipping off. What am I doing wrong?
Slippage is usually a sign of incorrect setup. First, make sure the jaws of the puller are seated securely behind the hub or component. They should be gripping a solid, machined surface, not a fragile lip or a piece of the seal. Second, ensure the forcing screw is centered and is making solid contact with the end of the axle or spindle. If it’s off-center, the force will be uneven, and the puller will want to walk off. Finally, apply force slowly and steadily. Cranking on it too aggressively can cause the jaws to jump. A little penetrating oil on the splines can also help the hub let go more smoothly.
Can a hub puller be used for other jobs besides wheel hubs?
Absolutely! While they are designed for hubs, these are incredibly versatile tools. The same principles apply to removing other pressed-on components. You can use them for pulling bearings, gears, pulleys, steering wheels, U-joints, and more. This is another reason why a good kit is such a valuable addition to your toolbox. It’s not a single-use tool; it’s a powerful problem-solver for a whole category of stubborn automotive repairs.