Eliminate High Risk Bearing Changeouts | CAT Haul Trucks

In mining maintenance, safety and efficiency go hand in hand. But when it comes to steering arm bearing replacements on Caterpillar 785, 789, and 793 haul trucks, traditional methods like hammering, jacking, or using liquid nitrogen have remained common practice despite the risks.

These techniques introduce significant hazards, including crush injuries, heat exposure, and uncontrolled component movement. In response, Geographe developed a smarter way forward.

Introducing the Ball Stud Bearing Installation and Removal Tool (BSBIRT)

The BSBIRT is Geographe’s latest addition to our Specialised Tooling range. Designed in consultation with maintenance crews and reliability teams, the tool eliminates the need for high-risk techniques by leveraging hydraulic operation, meaning no more hot works, hammering, or jacking!

This means fewer permits, less manual handling, and greater technician safety.

Safer. Faster. More Consistent.

With built-in guidance systems and a user-focused design, the BSBIRT allows crews to remove and install split shell bearings without damaging steering components or placing unnecessary physical strain on workers.

Whether it’s a seasoned technician or someone newer to the job, the outcome remains consistent: a safer, more efficient changeout.

During trials across multiple mine sites, maintenance teams reported:

• Reduced changeout times

• Fewer delays due to hot works permits

• Greater confidence in repeatability

• Improved alignment with site safety procedures

Developed with Site Feedback in Mind

This tool was developed in response to consistent feedback from mining operations. Steering arm bearing changeouts were a recurring bottleneck, often involving multiple departments, added personnel, permit requirements, and the movement of heavy parts between workstations.

The BSBIRT addresses those pain points by streamlining the process and removing unnecessary risks, allowing sites to meet shutdown schedules more reliably.

Built for the Bigger Picture

Beyond individual tasks, Specialised Tooling like the BSBIRT supports proactive maintenance strategies by reducing installation-related wear and potential breakdowns. It helps ensure jobs are completed correctly the first time with no shortcuts and no compromises.

For maintenance teams, it means less unplanned downtime. For procurement and supply chain teams, reduced reliance on third party tooling. And for HSE and site leadership, it’s a practical example of safety-led innovation in action.

Geographe’s Ball Stud Bearing Installation and Removal Tool is currently in production.
Australian availability is expected in late 2025, with international access from early 2026.