The Lisle 28100 upgrade adds a second jaw and wider opening range to your existing Lisle 28100 puller
The Lisle 28100 is a two-jaw puller used to remove bearings, gears, and other pressed-on parts from shafts. The upgrade kit — officially called the Lisle 28100C or sold as an add-on package — gives you a third jaw and expands the minimum and maximum spread distances your puller can reach. This matters because some jobs require a tighter grip than the base model allows, and some require a wider spread.
You do not need the upgrade if you only pull standard-sized bearings and gears on common shaft diameters. You need it if you work on smaller shafts, larger diameter parts, or jobs where the standard jaw positions leave gaps between the jaw and the part you are pulling.
Key Takeaways
- The Lisle 28100 upgrade adds a third jaw and extends both the minimum and maximum spread range of your puller.
- The upgrade kit is compatible only with the Lisle 28100 base model and cannot be used with other puller models.
- You need the upgrade when working with smaller shafts, larger-diameter parts, or jobs where standard jaw positions do not grip securely.
- The upgrade costs less than buying a second puller outright and stores in the same space as your base model.
What comes in the Lisle 28100 upgrade kit
The upgrade package includes one additional jaw (for a total of three), a wider range of jaw position spacers, and sometimes an extended center screw. The exact contents depend on which version you purchase — Lisle sells both a basic upgrade and a more complete kit. Check the packaging or product listing to confirm what is included before you buy.
All parts are designed to work with the existing Lisle 28100 frame and center screw. You do not need to replace the base puller itself. The new jaw and spacers straightforward swap in and out as you change jobs.
When the upgrade expands what you can pull
The standard Lisle 28100 typically spreads from about 2 inches to 5 inches between the jaws. The upgrade extends this range — usually to a minimum of around 1.5 inches and a maximum of 6 to 7 inches, though exact measurements vary by kit version. This wider range lets you work on smaller shafts and larger-diameter pulleys or gears without buying a second tool.
The third jaw also matters. With two jaws, you are limited to pulling parts that sit on a shaft with the jaws on opposite sides. A three-jaw setup lets you pull parts that are offset or asymmetrical, and it distributes force more evenly on larger-diameter parts, reducing the risk of damage.
How to install the upgrade on your existing puller
Start by removing the center screw from your Lisle 28100. Unscrew it by hand or with a wrench, depending on the model. Set the original jaws aside in a safe place — you will swap them back in for jobs where they work better.
Install the new jaw or jaws onto the frame in the same way the original jaws attach. The frame has slots or holes designed to hold multiple jaws, and they all use the same attachment method. Once the new jaw is seated, thread the center screw back in and tighten it by hand until snug. Do not over-tighten — the screw should turn smoothly when you are adjusting jaw spread.
Test the jaw spread by turning the center screw. The jaws should open and close smoothly without binding. If they stick or feel rough, remove the center screw, check that the jaw is seated correctly, and reinstall.
Comparing the upgrade to buying a second puller
A second Lisle 28100 base model costs roughly the same as the upgrade kit, but the upgrade takes up no additional storage space and handles both the standard range and the extended range in one tool. The trade-off is that swapping jaws takes a minute or two, whereas having two pullers ready means no setup time between jobs.
For a home garage or occasional use, the upgrade is usually the better choice. For a busy shop where speed matters, two complete pullers may be worth the extra cost and shelf space. Consider how often you actually need the extended range before you decide.
Compatibility and what will not work with the upgrade
The Lisle 28100 upgrade is designed only for the Lisle 28100 base model. It will not fit other Lisle pullers such as the 28200 or 28300, and it will not work with pullers from other manufacturers. Before you order, confirm that you own a Lisle 28100 and not a similar model.
If you have a different puller model, check the manufacturer's documentation to see whether they offer an upgrade kit for your specific tool. Some manufacturers do; others do not. Trying to force parts from one model onto another can damage both the puller and the part you are trying to remove.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the upgrade jaws on the original center screw?
Yes. The upgrade jaws attach to the same frame and use the same center screw as the original jaws. You do not need to buy a new center screw unless the kit specifically includes one or your original screw is damaged.
Do I need all three jaws at once, or can I use just two?
You can use two jaws if that is all the job requires. The third jaw is optional — install it only when you need the extra grip or when the part geometry demands three contact points. For most standard bearing pulls, two jaws work fine.
What if the upgrade jaws do not spread wide enough for my job?
If the upgrade still does not reach your maximum spread, you need a larger puller model, not a further upgrade. Lisle makes larger pullers designed for bigger parts. Check the specifications of the 28200 or 28300 to see if either fits your needs.
Can I return the upgrade if it does not fit my puller?
Return policies depend on the seller and whether you have opened or used the kit. Check the seller's return window and conditions before you buy. If you are unsure whether the upgrade fits your specific puller, contact the seller or Lisle customer service with your puller's model number.