Powerhouse 3pt splitter

[JD4320]

Hi Jim,

Any chance you can give us an update on the performance of this unit? I am thinking about getting one for use on my JD4320 (12 GPM hydro) and was wondering how you liked it after more use. Does wood debris from the splitting get into the cylinder area in the beam and cause any problems? Any problems splitting with the relatively narrow wedge (any wood not split and get stuck on wedge)? How are the work tables holding up (I am thinking these will need reinforcement)?

Thanks,
Nate

 

[jimgerken]

Better late than never maybe. I split a half a cord of wood Sunday morning. Overall, am very happy with the Powerhorse. You asked if the wedge is big enough. Actually I am wondering that same thing. I did get stuck a couple times, and I had to muscle the log around to twist it off the wedge. I was left wondering of I needed to add something to make it taller, with a positive hook maybe. Another thing, the control handle seems too close to the action. A couple times I stopped the process as the log was almost touching the hydraulic valve. I am planning on moving it up a couple inches, forward a couple inches and outward from center a couple inches from my present modifiied location. You asked about the work tables. They are holding up fine, and are wonderful to have on there. Just have to make note not to get a branch stuck down thru the grate, or it would tear off the work table. The debris does build up, but doesnt get stuck in the open frame of the splitter. The ability to raise to comfortable working height, and lower to roll on huge logs, was great!

 

[jimgerken]

I found some more pics. First one shows new larger work table, control valve now moved to right side and facing forward toward tractor. Second pic shows another view of same thing, and its setting on its new skateboard for shed storage. Third pic shows closeup of valve mounting and a bit of the plumbing.

I think this is the ultimate configuration now. It does everything I set out to accomplish:
- variable work heights from ground to 30 inches high
- convenient control position now on rt side of tractor near 3-pt control lever
- powerfull enough for whatever
- fast enough even with tractor hydraulics, helped greatly by the bi-directional action
- work tables reduce bending over

 

[GBeck]

jimgerken...great job (and idea) moving the control valve to the right side
I have this unit and have bent the metal 'blocker' to the control valve

 

[simonds]

I just got a SpeeCo splitter at Tractor Supply. It is 22 ton, horizonital & vertical. $699.99. Had to buy hoses and fittings to hook it up to my JD. 4200. Did a quick try out with it and really liked it. I ran the tractor at 1500 rpms, and it had no problem splitting cherry, ash, elm, and locust that I had cut up. I am going to build a craddle to catch the half on the back side, so I won't have to let it fall on the ground, then pick it up again. I will get time time Sunday to use it more.