My splitter was probably 30+ years old; was a rental unit before I bought it. Brand unknown. 5 hp Briggs engine unknown tonnage rating for hydraulics. The valve was getting tired and the cylinder was leaking.
Sold it, got a new Ariens, 6 hp, 27 ton. Looks prettier, but otherwise I'm not impressed. Old one started on 3rd pull every time. Ariens, not so good, gotta have the throttle set just right and the throttle arm needs to be an inch or two longer for better leverage; it's really tight. Takes 4-6 pulls. Ok, got it running and it doesn't split better or faster than the old one & doesn't handle large logs as well. When it gets a tough piece it slows and almost gives up, while the old one just slowed down a little then plowed right on thru. Biggest peeve is splitting kindling. I like to split thin pieces about 3/4 inch thick or less, usually 16-18" long, best if the pieces come off shaped like a shim so the thin end lights right up and burns into the thicker portion. No problem on the old one. But on the Ariens the wedge is so wide (4.5") that half way along the log the proposed kindling breaks in 2. I'm splitting Douglas-fir and cherry.
Some one posted a positive review of the Ariens which influenced me a little in making my purchase. I wouldn't recommend it.
