This paper deals with the influence of adhesive on the pull-off test for the molybdenum layer of the railway wheel set axle. Certain axle types are fitted with a Mo coat used to provide protection against fretting and external influences. Pressing is used for the wheel-axle assembly procedure. During the process of pressing, this surface layer is damaged, which results in a corrosive tendency in the pressed joint. That is why great emphasis must be put on the Mo layer quality and its parameters must be tested in a suitable manner. Testing means identification of the surface tensile strength. The pull-off test provides a good tool to resolve the present problem. K e y w o r d s : pull-off test, Mo-coatings, railway axles, material behaviour, fretting