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Automotive suspension tools are designed for specialised jobs where general hand tools may not provide the access, control or measurement required. From removing bushes and bearings to checking wheel alignment and tyre pressure, choosing the right tool can make suspension servicing, setup and component installation more controlled and repeatable.

Fulcrum's automotive tools category focuses on specialist suspension and workshop tools rather than general mechanic tool kits. Options include bushing and bearing press kits, wheel alignment tools, tyre pressure gauges, strut tools and wheel stud tools for professional workshops and experienced home users carrying out appropriate automotive work.

What Are Suspension Tools?

Suspension tools are purpose-specific tools used to inspect, remove, install, adjust or measure components associated with suspension, steering, wheels and related systems.

Some jobs require substantial and controlled force, such as removing a pressed bush or bearing. Others require measurement rather than force, such as checking tyre pressure or assessing wheel alignment. A specialist tool is designed around the requirements of that particular task.

This makes suspension tools different from broad automotive tool kits containing general sockets, spanners, screwdrivers and other everyday workshop equipment. Those tools remain important, but specialist suspension work can require equipment designed for a particular component or procedure.

The correct tool can also help reduce the temptation to improvise with equipment that is not intended for the job. This is particularly important when working with pressed components, suspension assemblies or measurement tasks where incorrect technique can damage components or produce misleading results.

Types of Automotive Suspension Tools

Different suspension and workshop tasks require different tools. Before choosing one, identify the component being serviced, how it is installed or adjusted and whether the job requires removal, installation or measurement.

Bushing and Bearing Press Tool Kits

A bushing press kit, bush press tool or bearing press kit is used to apply controlled force when removing or installing compatible bushes and bearings.

Pressing a component requires the force to be applied at the correct points. The supporting sleeve or adaptor needs to provide suitable clearance while the pressing component contacts the appropriate part of the bush or bearing.

Using unsuitable adaptors or applying force to the wrong surface can damage the replacement component, suspension arm, housing or surrounding parts.

Fulcrum has a dedicated Bushing & Bearing Press Tool Kits category, allowing buyers who specifically need press equipment to explore those tools separately from the broader automotive tools category.

Before using any press kit, confirm that the supplied sleeves, adaptors and pressing arrangement are suitable for the component being serviced. Never exceed the tool's specified operating requirements.

Wheel Alignment Tools

Wheel alignment tools are used to measure aspects of wheel and suspension geometry so that the vehicle's setup can be assessed or adjusted.

One option is a string alignment kit, which establishes reference lines around the vehicle so measurements can be taken relative to the wheels. This type of equipment can be useful for checking and setting relevant alignment measurements when used correctly.

Accuracy depends heavily on setup. The vehicle needs to be positioned appropriately, the equipment needs to be installed according to its instructions and measurements need to be taken consistently.

Wheel alignment involves more than owning the measuring equipment. The user also needs to understand the required alignment specifications and how suspension adjustments affect geometry. Where that information or experience is unavailable, a professional wheel alignment is the safer option.

Tyre Pressure Gauges

A tyre pressure gauge measures the air pressure inside a tyre. While it is simpler than many suspension tools, accurate tyre pressure measurement is important when checking or adjusting vehicle setup.

Tyre pressures should be checked against the appropriate requirements for the vehicle, tyres and intended use. The gauge should be used consistently, particularly when comparing pressure readings before and after changes.

For workshop, road or performance use, repeatability is important. If the same tyre produces significantly different readings without a corresponding pressure change, the gauge may need to be checked.

Where a gauge has calibration requirements, follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommended calibration interval. Avoid assuming that a gauge remains accurate indefinitely simply because it still produces a reading.

Strut Tools

Strut work can require specialised tools because access, fastener design and component configuration vary between suspension assemblies.

A strut spanner or dedicated strut tool can be designed to engage a particular part of the strut assembly during installation, removal or adjustment. Using a tool that properly matches the component can provide better engagement than improvising with an unsuitable alternative.

The exact tool required depends on the strut assembly being serviced. Check the individual tool specifications and intended application before use.

Strut and spring assemblies can also store substantial energy. Jobs involving loaded springs or other tensioned components require appropriate equipment, procedures and experience. A specialised spanner should not be treated as a substitute for any other safety equipment required for the complete job.

Wheel Stud Tools

A wheel stud tool is designed to assist with compatible wheel stud installation or removal work.

Wheel studs form part of the wheel fastening system, so avoiding unnecessary damage to the stud, thread, hub or related components is important during servicing.

The correct procedure depends on the wheel hub and stud design. Check that the tool is suitable for the intended task and that the replacement stud itself is the correct specification before installation.

Choosing the Right Suspension Tool

Start with the job rather than the tool catalogue. Identify exactly what needs to be removed, installed, adjusted or measured. A tool that performs a similar task is not necessarily suitable for every component.

For press tools, check the sizes and configurations of the supplied sleeves and adaptors against the bush or bearing being serviced. Consider where pressing force needs to be applied and how the component or housing will be supported.

For alignment equipment, consider which measurements the tool is designed to provide and whether you have the specifications and adjustment knowledge required to use those measurements correctly.

For tyre pressure gauges, check the measurement range, scale or display and any accuracy or calibration information provided for the individual product.

For strut and wheel stud tools, confirm that the tool matches the component and procedure involved.

Professional workshop users should also consider how frequently a tool will be used. A specialist tool required regularly may become part of the core workshop equipment, while a tool needed for an occasional repair may warrant a different purchasing decision.

Avoid choosing a tool solely because it is described as universal. Where that term is used, check the actual dimensions, compatible components and operating requirements.

Using, Storing and Calibrating Suspension Tools

Specialist automotive tools should be used within their intended operating limits and according to the instructions supplied with the individual product.

For bushing and bearing press tools, make sure the component is supported correctly and the press adaptors are properly aligned before force is applied. Stop if the component begins to move incorrectly or substantially more force is required than expected. Forcing a misaligned bush or bearing can damage the component, housing or tool.

Inspect threaded press components and adaptors for wear or damage before use. Keep threads and contact surfaces maintained according to the tool instructions and return individual adaptors to their storage locations so the correct pieces can be identified for the next job.

Measurement equipment requires a different approach. Tyre pressure gauges and other measuring tools should be protected from impacts, contamination and inappropriate storage conditions that could affect their operation.

If a measuring tool can be calibrated, follow its specified calibration procedure and interval. A gauge that has been dropped, damaged or is producing inconsistent readings should be checked before relying on it for further measurements.

Good storage matters too. Keep tools clean, dry and organised so missing or damaged components can be identified before the next job. Tool cases and dedicated storage also help prevent press adaptors, measuring components and other small pieces from being mixed with unrelated workshop equipment.

Most importantly, specialist tools do not replace safe workshop procedures. Vehicles must be supported correctly, stored energy within suspension components must be managed appropriately and the user should understand the procedure before beginning work.

Shop Automotive Tools at Fulcrum Suspensions

Fulcrum Suspensions has specialised in suspension since 1976. Browse our range of bushing and bearing press kits, strut tools, wheel alignment tools, tyre pressure gauges and wheel stud tools, and order online with fast Australia-wide shipping.

For tyre changes and hub work, a wheel hanger takes the weight of the wheel while you line up the studs.

Prefer to leave the job to the professionals? Book installation of your suspension parts through our Click and Fit service at one of our 200+ authorised workshops. Our team is also on hand to help you choose the right tools and parts for your project.