Log Splitters

[HorseHusband]

Any opinions re which is better: a 3-pt hitch log splitter (like the one Northern Tool sells in its catalog), or a free-standing 24-ton log splitter. Thanks...will need to split approx. 1-2 trees/year.

 

[rancar]

Personally, I'd go with a free standing one. You can tow it and set up where you'll be doing the splitting. You're then free to use your tractor for other purposes, like hitching a wagon or dump trailer to tow the split wood to where you'll be seasoning it.

...Bob

 

[GregJ]

I have a free standing splitter. I like it much better because I can use the tractor for other things while splitting. A couple nights ago I had about a dozen rounds to split. As I was splitting, I used my loader to transport the wood to the woodshed. The freestanding seem to be a lot cheaper too. I just bought the one Home Depot sells and it seems very adequate for the average home owner. I also palletize my wood, so I have the pallet on the 3pt. forks lifted all the way so I can load it directly from the splitter to the pallet and then transport to the wood shed. This way I only handle each piece of wood once. I have attached a photo of some of my palletized wood. Hope this helps.

Greg

 

[markie61]

I go into the woods with:
Tractor
FEL
Front Pallet forks
Old pallet with a frame made from scrap 2x4's (holds about 1/3 cord oak)
Chainsaw (with helmet/ear protection/shield, chaps, gas/oil)
3ph woodsplitter - tractor supply

I put the pallet next to my where my splitter will be, cut wood, split/stack it, move the full pallet to my storage area. When I need wood, I move the pallet next to my carport.

Advantages: I touch the wood once. One engine to maintain. One trip wood-handling. Woodsplitter less expensive $550.
Disadvantages: Needs rear hydraulic remote ~$250 (on Kubota especially godawful expensive ~$700-1000). Slower cycle than stand-alone splitter. When vertical, occasionally tight quarters by left-rear tire.

Net result - I'm much happier than with my old stand-alone splitter, but I wish the cycle time were 2 seconds faster.

Mark

 

[Tim_in_NH]

How much do you suppose a pallet of green oak/maple would weigh? Would FEL clamp-on pallet forks on a bx2200 be able to lift it? Or would I be better off with a set of 3pt forks?

 

[bmac]

Those pallets of firewood make for a pretty tricky game of tennis, don't they?

 

[GregJ]

Tim,
I have mostly alder and it is all my B7500 can do to lift it with the 3pt forks. The lift capacity is 1058lbs 24" behind LP. When the wood is green, I have discovered a trick to lift it. First I have to have a full load of something in my loader, otherwise I do a wheelie. To assist the lift, I lower my bucket on the fel to lift the front end of the tractor a couple of inches. Then I lift the 3pt until it stops. Then I raise the fel and the weight of the tractor lifts the pallet. After the wood dries, I can dead lift the pallet no problem. You do get more lift with the 3pt forks. I am sure the BX2200 could lift a pallet, but it would just have to be a smaller load.

Greg