motownbrowne
Elite Member
- Joined
- Dec 30, 2013
- Messages
- 2,635
- Location
- river falls, wi
- Tractor
- Kubota mx4700 HST, New Holland TC-29D
I'm beginning the process of purchasing a wood splitter. I burn about 15-20 full cords of wood every year, and I'm hoping that number will go up. Most of my wood is burned in my maple syrup evaporator, so the more wood I burn the better, since it means I'm making syrup. The firebox on my cooker is 4'x4' and about 20" tall. I like burning 32"-36" long firewood split to under 4".
I've settled on a 3 point mounted splitter with a 36" ram powered by a PTO pump. Basically a timberwolf tw3hd, but I'm planning on having mine built locally. I have decided to go with a three point model for a few reasons. I like the portability and the adjustable height, the price is lower, and I hate standing next to air-cooled 4-stroke motors.
The guy who is gonna build mine, if I continue down this road, makes some very nice splitters. Here's his site Wolfe Ridge Mfg – Eau Claire, WI USA – 715.559.4376 – Professional Grade Wood Splitters
He doesn't normally build 3 point models, but didn't seem the least bit daunted by the idea. Since it's not a normal item for him, I get to play around with the design if I want. That's where I'm asking for input. One thing that's gonna be a challenge with this rig is length. Three 36" ram means that it's gonna be 100" long before you add an out feed table. The builder mentioned putting some legs under the splitter, so that when it's in use you can take the weight off the hitch. Any thoughts? Also, he mentioned going sideways instead of lengthwise off the back. I think I want it coming straight back so someone can be on either side, but I'm open to ideas.
Also, regarding pumps, it looks like Prince has a 20gpm pump for $5-600. Surplus center sells a "Dynamic" pump for under $300 that seems to have the same specs. Anyone have any experience with their stuff?
Okay, hopefully that'll get the ball rolling. I appreciate the input gentlemen.
I've settled on a 3 point mounted splitter with a 36" ram powered by a PTO pump. Basically a timberwolf tw3hd, but I'm planning on having mine built locally. I have decided to go with a three point model for a few reasons. I like the portability and the adjustable height, the price is lower, and I hate standing next to air-cooled 4-stroke motors.
The guy who is gonna build mine, if I continue down this road, makes some very nice splitters. Here's his site Wolfe Ridge Mfg – Eau Claire, WI USA – 715.559.4376 – Professional Grade Wood Splitters
He doesn't normally build 3 point models, but didn't seem the least bit daunted by the idea. Since it's not a normal item for him, I get to play around with the design if I want. That's where I'm asking for input. One thing that's gonna be a challenge with this rig is length. Three 36" ram means that it's gonna be 100" long before you add an out feed table. The builder mentioned putting some legs under the splitter, so that when it's in use you can take the weight off the hitch. Any thoughts? Also, he mentioned going sideways instead of lengthwise off the back. I think I want it coming straight back so someone can be on either side, but I'm open to ideas.
Also, regarding pumps, it looks like Prince has a 20gpm pump for $5-600. Surplus center sells a "Dynamic" pump for under $300 that seems to have the same specs. Anyone have any experience with their stuff?
Okay, hopefully that'll get the ball rolling. I appreciate the input gentlemen.