Abstract: A printing roll is mounted in a printing machine in such a way that a sleeve on its outer surface can be removed axially while the roll remains substantially in its working position. One end bearing of the roll is free of axial restraint relative to the roll and is removably secured to a side frame of the machine. For axial positioning, an adjustable restrainer engages the roll axle at that end. Beyond the other side frame a counterpoise acts on the roll axle to support the roll when the one end bearing is removed. The counterpoise may be a hydraulically operated pull roll, permanently engaged to the roll axle through a yoke and a rolling contact bearing.