Old Bobcat Aux hydraulics for log splitter, anyone done it? Mine's an old 720

[kilohertz]

Old Bobcat Aux hydraulics vs stand alone gas engine log splitter, your thoughts?

Hi Guys,

Still trying to decide which way to go for my log splitter. I have some big Maple to split and would like something 25+ tons. I have both 4" and 5" cylinders, all the valves etc. but can't decide which way to go, use the AUX hydraulics on my Bobcat 720, which has 10GPM at 2100 PSI or use my 9HP or 14HP gas engines and build a stand alone unit. If I use a 2 stage 16 GPM pump and the 5" cylinder with the Bobcat I will get 20 tons, with the gas engines, about 29 tons. The gas engines will be faster as well. Bobcat benefits are ...faster to get something going, and quick connects to the already installed AUX hydraulics. Could also make a Bobtach attachment plate for the machine so it's completely portable.

Your thoughts? Anyone run a splitter on an older Bobcat?

Cheers

Paul

 

[MFWD]

Hello,
My opinion is for you to build a separate log splitter that has it's own engine. I have a New Holland L170 and wouldn't consider using it to run a log splitter. First, it would use more fuel than a smaller engine and the wear and tear on my $18,500 machine engine doesn't sound appealing. When an 8 or 9 HP engine wears out, get a new one........not so easy when the skid steer engine craps out !!!!! I made my own log splitter 25 years ago and we can be splitting while I use the skid steer to go get another bucket full of wood......you couldn't do that if your log splitter was attached to the skid steer. Just some of my ideas....hope it gives you something to consider !!! Good luck !!!

MFWD

 

[kilohertz]

Thanks! I have been reading for a couple of hours now, on various forums here, about using farm equipment to run the splitter or build it stand alone, and I now agree with your opinion. :thumbsup: I have a Wisconsin AEN 9HP pull start engine with magneto, solid running engine, as well as a Kohler K321S electric start 14HP engine, on a go-cart I bought to race with my son, but I haven't found a new centrifugal clutch for it yet...so it may get removed temporarily to the splitter. All I need now is the 2 stage pump, which I can pickup online. Also have been reading that 30 tons isn't really required if you have a good sharp properly shaped wedge. 15-20 tons seems enough to split 2' maple, which is the hardest wood I will encounter. Most of it will be Ponderosa Pine and Douglas Fir.

Cheers!
:drink:

Paul