Shop Press

A shop press applies controlled force to press components together or apart — bearings, bushings, u-joints, seals, and pressed-fit assemblies. It is the standard tool for work that cannot be done with hand tools or impact.

Mahle ShopPRO presses including a bench-mount model and floor presses in the 10, 25, and 75 ton classes. The range covers light bench work through heavy component pressing. Tonnage class is the main thing that separates the bench model from the floor presses.

For general automotive bearing and bushing work, a 10 to 25 ton press covers most jobs. Heavy truck components and large bearings call for higher tonnage. Buying more tonnage than needed is safer than being short, since a press struggling at its limit is where accidents happen. Alamo can advise based on your component mix.

A bench press mounts to a workbench and suits smaller components and lighter tonnage. A floor press stands on its own, handles larger parts and higher tonnage, and gives more working room around the work area. Floor presses need dedicated floor space.

Components under press load store significant energy and can release violently. Use appropriate guarding and eye protection, keep hands clear of the load path, support the workpiece correctly, and never exceed the press rating. Pressed parts failing under load are a real injury source in shops.

Press plates, arbor plates, and adapters suited to the components you work on are what make the press usable across different jobs. Confirm what is included with the specific model, since accessory sets vary.

Inspect the frame for deformation or cracking, check hydraulic components for leaks, verify the ram operates smoothly and holds, and keep the working surfaces clear. A press frame showing any deformation should be taken out of service.

Floor presses ship by LTL freight and are heavy. Confirm you have equipment to offload and position the press before scheduling delivery, and inspect for freight damage before signing.