three point wood splitter vs gas operated

[meanstreak]

I have a tc 45d with rear remotes and was considering buying a wood splitter for the three point hitch, someone said not to because the pump pressure is to slow and that i will be using more diesel fuel than its worth, he said i should buy a gas operated one and save the wear and tare on my engine. I was looking for any suggestions that may help me. My old splitter [ my back] can't take it anymore.
thanks Blake <font color="black"> </font>

[bczoom]

Blake,

PTO driven vs. stand-alone is like which is better, Ford or Chevy.

There's a wealth of info on the site but it's going to come down to some basic preferences.
Do you mind putting the hours on your tractor?
Do you mind having another engine?
Do you need your tractor for other parts of the firewood process or can it sit, attached to the splitter?

I too couldn't take the older style (I'm assuming you're referring to the ones that are only about 1' off the ground) and bought a new one last year.

I used to live in Holland. (Vermont Hill Rd.)

Brian

[TCowner]

Blake, I just put a new three point hitch splitter from Northern Tool on my TC40DA last week. I run the tractor at about 1800 rpm when I split. It is slower than a gas powered splitter with the two stage pump but I wouldn't consider it a huge difference. I would guess it is around 20-25% slower.

There is an advantage in that the cycle is not slowed by a difficult wood. The last time I rented a gas powered splitter I noticed it was faster but if I ran into a piece with knots it would slow the cycle. So in that regard you pick up a little speed.

With respect to fuel usage I'm sure I'm using more fuel than a gas operated unit. But I think the New Holland's use is pretty reasonable at lower RPM levels.

Overall, I'm satisfied with the splitter.

Terry,

[VIEWQUEST]

You may want to research GFX Super Split Log Splitters. They have an interesting product that utilizes the kinetic energy of a flywheel to split the wood. Similar to how the old hay balers used a flywheel attatched to the plunger's gear box.

I'm interested in what others may think about this product since I've been considering purchasing one.

[Diesel_Boy]

i saw one of these super splits being demo'd at an agricultual fair. it was the mid model, with a 6 hp gas engine. man, was it ever sweet. fast cycle time. 2 seconds out, and 1/2 second back, for a total of 2 1/2 seconds cycle time! but it was pricey. somewhere between $2000-$3000. i would get one if it weren't for the price. i have my own project, though. kind of a fun learning experience. a friend gave me (free) a home made woodsplitter. the engine was shot because it sat out in the field for 6 years. i tested the hydraulics with an electric motor and everything works fine! i just need a new hydraulic pump and used engine and i'm good to go. it is fun learning about hydraulics and the fittings. should have it together in about 2 weeks. waiting for my order to arrive. good luck with your decision on a splitter purchase.

[kensfarm]

Have a Troy-built 27 ton gas splitter.. vert./horizontal.. got it at Lowe's $1200-$1300.

It's nice to be able to throw the wood right into the FEL while splitting.. the splitter's built on a little tow type trailer w/ tail lights.. though mine's never left the farm.