Bearings should be 1/4".
11 per side if you don't use the retainers. Most of us don't, since grease will hold the bearings in place for reassembly.
Some retainers will reduce the ball count to 7 (cheap bikes typically)
I would think the puller should work.
1. Is the center "plug" of the tool screwed out far enough? Make sure it has PLENTY of clearance when screwing in the tool.
2. Is the leading thread deformed on either the crank or tool.
You might want to buy a bag of 3/16" for front hubs? when you buy the bag of 1/4".
Rear axle will typically use NINE 1/4" per side.
Last edited by Bill Kapaun; 02-13-24 at 05:35 PM.