3pt or Stand Alone Splitter

[Rich B1]

I have a Speeco 3PT splitter. All of my wood is cut when it is time to split, so no dealing with logs. I have developed a routine of handling/splitting/stacking that largely negates the speed issue.

A 3PT splitter may not be for everyone, but it works well for me. And no separate engine to maintain

 

[PILOON]

I DIY'd my splitter.

5 ft channel ($40.00), 24 inch 'dozer lift cylinder ($25.00) and valve ($80.00)
Made it 3 point mounted using my CUT hydraulics.
OK, slowish but fast enough 4 me.

Not that I use it all that much but has served me flawlessly.
I created a linkage/lever return system so that it has automatic return stop.
To split I need to manually position the valve and hold it open. (safer that way)

This is mounted on my 3 point using quick connects 4 hydraulics.
Lots of power! I have cut green 4-5 inch maple into lengths just for fun occasionally.

For sure if I split on a commercial basis it would be a lost cause but was a very satisfactory DIY project.
I have had occasion to compare usage to a factory splitter as well as a commercial screw type and surprisingly my DIY holds its place with pride.

3 point does have advantages, you can re position easily as the stock of rounds diminish and/or the splits get in the way.
Downside is hefting any huge/oversized rounds. (huge is rare around here)

I made it at the time mainly to prove that I could but then it merely cost me more than a few rentals would have.
LOL but I don't heat with wood anymore.

 

[dodge man]

This is my setup. It’s a 15 ton and about as cheap as you can get in gas powered. Maybe $700. It has a Honda clone engine and other than mice eating the wiring once has been trouble free. It has always split anything I’ve thrown at it, no matter how twisted and knotty.

 

[ruffdog]

Here is a good video by Messick's that discusses if you should buy a splitter for your tractor.

 

[MossRoad]

Here is a good video by Messick's that discusses if you should buy a splitter for your tractor.

Good to see the salesman giving a good pro-con list.

 

[grsthegreat]

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Mines vertical. I back into pile of rounds and go at it. Very little lifting of rounds

 

[PJohnson]

These are all very thought provoking responses. Thank you very much!

 

[grsthegreat]

These are all very thought provoking responses. Thank you very much!

That’s what we like to do...confuse people

 

[KennyG]

This is a very individual issue. It's pretty clear that a stand alone works best for most people and that is why they outsell 3 point units by a large margin, even among tractor owners. However, I would never give up my 3 point splitter. Because it's a two way splitter with a relatively small cylinder it works with my small tractor and is just right for the way I work and the 3 or 4 cords a year I split.

 

[Firefighter Kubota]

I love my 3 point splitter... Running a powerhorse on my Kubota B series... Its a dual direction splitter , which makes up for the slower speed. Handles 18" logs, perfect for my stove...

On the three point mount I can adjust the height, and it's one less engine to worry about / maintain especially with all the E85 fuel...

I've had it for 12 years... And wouldn't change a thing..