JUNKMAN,
Ditto on the comments ,about vertical splitters...way too much bending over,and moving wood out of your way.If wood is too big to handle,add a log lift.Heres a few thoughts i have on the perfect splitter,i have built this over the years,modifying along the way,what i believe is perfect for my needs[and every one else,whos trying to borrow it.]
1 with the proper two stage pump,[which gives it power and speed]5 hp is all you need. i have an old briggs.
2 the wedge should have some angle welded on to make the wood pop right open,and you wont have to complete the stroke[on non stringy stuff]
3auto return detent valve,if you have to hold the stick back your wasting time and you could have been gathering another piece. FOR SAFETY NEVER LET SOMEONE OPERATE YOUR STICK
4make it high enough so you are standing straight up when running to save the back
5 have it on a trailer hitch,to pull with your lawn tractor,and THE IMPORTANT PART...THE WOOD SHOULD COME OFF THE BACK.You will never have to throw wood out of your way...when it builds up...drive ahead a foot or so.No need to have a helper,or a conveyor. note* i used an old boat trailer axle and wheels which i shortened up .*
6have some wings on it tokeep the wood from falling for multiple splits.If you dont want to split again the next log will push it off.
I bought alot of my stuff at NH.They sell good stuff.I cut my trees down,cut up right there to avoid dragging in the dirt,haul my splitter to the spot with my atv.All the mess is in the woods,not home .NOW THE SHOCKER...With this splitter,in maple or oak etc,6 to 12 inch sticks,IM able to split a cord an hour by my self,i cant lay it on the splitter fast enough.Its just like our tractors,its the design and hydraulics that do the brunt of the work,not the engins.SEND IN A PIC THIS WEEKEND IF YOU WANT.
ALAN