What to Look for When Buying a Used Gleason
Gleason machines are purpose-built for gear production. Inspecting a used unit requires attention to gear-specific components. Here is what to check.
On bevel gear cutting machines, inspect the cutter spindle and workhead. Measure cutter spindle runout across the full RPM range. On Phoenix-series machines, test workhead indexing for accuracy. Run a test cut and verify tooth contact pattern with gear-marking compound. On legacy mechanical generators, inspect cradle and eccentric mechanisms for wear.
On hobbing and shaping machines, verify spindles and axis drives. Test hob spindle runout and bearing condition. On Genesis-series machines, confirm direct-drive work spindle indexing accuracy. Check ballscrew backlash on all linear axes. On HCD chamfer variants, test the chamfer station independently.
On gear grinding machines, check the grinding spindle and dressing system. Verify wheel spindle runout and vibration levels. Inspect the dressing unit for accurate profiling. Test on-board inspection probes if equipped.
Confirm the CNC control platform. Current machines use Siemens 840D or Fanuc 30i with Gleason's GEMS interface. Legacy Pfauter machines may run Siemens 840C. Older mechanical bevel gear machines use manual or cam-driven controls.
Gleason Bevel Gear Machines
Phoenix Bevel Gear Cutting & Grinding
The Phoenix cutting series (125GH, 280C, 280CX, 500C, 1000HC) is Gleason's full CNC bevel gear platform, capable of face hobbing, face milling, straight bevel cutting, and power skiving. The 280C/CX is the most common automotive-size model. The Phoenix grinding series (280G, 600G, 800G) delivers hard finishing of spiral bevel and hypoid gears. The 600HTL Turbo Lapper provides lapping and testing for final gear set matching.
Legacy Mechanical Bevel Gear Machines
Pre-CNC Gleason bevel gear machines (No. 116 and No. 118 Hypoid Generators, No. 641 and No. 645 Spiral Generators, and various straight bevel generators) remain in active production worldwide. These are among the most traded used Gleason machines.
Gleason Cylindrical Gear Machines
Genesis Series (Hobbing)
The Genesis series (130H, 180H, 210H, 260H, 280H, 400H) is Gleason's vertical CNC hobbing platform for spur and helical gears, featuring direct-drive spindles, mineral-cast bases, and compact footprints. HCD variants integrate chamfer cutting for complete processing in one setup.
P Series (Hobbing, Shaping & Grinding)
The P Series covers hobbing (P60 through P10000), shaping (P500S through P2400S), and profile grinding (P400G through P5000G) for cylindrical gears up to 10,000 mm. Originally developed by Pfauter, this modular platform is the backbone of Gleason's cylindrical gear lineup. Shaping machines feature hydrostatic bearings and optional Electronic Shaping (ES) technology.
Titan Series & Legacy Machines
The Titan series (1200H, 1600H, 1200G, 1600G) handles gears up to 1,600 mm and module 40 for wind energy, mining, and heavy industry. Legacy Gleason-Pfauter hobbing and shaping machines and Gleason-Hurth shaving and honing machines remain widely available and parts-supported.
Gleason Metrology Systems
The GMS series (300GMS through 3000GMS) provides CNC analytical gear inspection with 3D scanning probes. The GMSL series adds laser scanning for advanced analytics. The GRSL integrates laser inspection with double-flank roll testing. All systems support Closed Loop technology for automatic correction of production machines.
How to Sell Your Used Gleason
Gleason gear machines hold strong resale value thanks to the company's dominant market position and service network. Phoenix bevel gear machines, Genesis hobbers, and P Series machines are in high demand.
Resell CNC buys used Gleason gear machines, every model, every generation, nationwide.
- Contact us — call (844) 478-8181 or email sales@resellcnc.com.
- Free appraisal within 24 hours, no obligation.
- Accept the offer — we handle rigging, transport, and logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Gleason Machines
Are used Gleason machines reliable?
Yes. Gleason has built gear production equipment since 1865 and is the global leader in the field. Many legacy mechanical bevel gear machines have run reliably for 30 to 50 years. CNC Phoenix and Genesis platforms use direct-drive technology with Siemens or Fanuc controls.
What CNC controls do Gleason machines use?
Current machines use Siemens 840D sl or Fanuc 30i/31i running Gleason's GEMS operator interface. Legacy Pfauter machines may use Siemens 840C. Older mechanical bevel gear machines use manual or cam-driven controls.
What is the difference between Gleason, Gleason-Pfauter, and Gleason-Hurth?
They are all part of the same company. Gleason Corporation (Rochester, NY, founded 1865) acquired Hurth of Munich in 1995 and the Pfauter Group of Ludwigsburg in 1997. Used machines may carry any of these names depending on manufacture date.
What should I inspect before buying a used Gleason?
Focus on spindle runout, bearing noise, axis drive accuracy, workhead indexing precision, and CNC control function. On bevel gear machines, run a test cut and check the contact pattern. On hobbing and grinding machines, verify spindle concentricity. On metrology systems, verify probe calibration and repeatability.
What Gleason models hold their value best?
Phoenix CNC bevel gear machines maintain strong resale values due to the lack of comparable alternatives. Genesis hobbers hold well thanks to productivity and compact footprints. P Series grinders in larger sizes command premiums. Legacy mechanical generators retain value because many shops still rely on them. Call (844) 478-8181 for current valuations.
Can I still get parts for older Gleason machines?
Yes. Gleason operates a global service network with spare parts for current and legacy equipment and offers rebuilds and CNC retrofits for older mechanical models.
Does Resell CNC offer financing on used Gleason machines?
Yes. Resell CNC offers flexible financing options to help your business acquire the equipment it needs. Contact us at (844) 478-8181 to discuss terms.
How do I sell my used Gleason?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy every Gleason, Gleason-Pfauter, Pfauter, Gleason-Hurth, and Hurth model nationwide. Free appraisal within 24 hours.