I checked the link back to Amazon and recalled I had done a review there. Here's a cut n paste from it:
I looked for a log splitter for about 4 months before deciding on this one, both new and used. I checked online, craigslist, and about 10 local stores -- recommend doing the same to find the best deal. One thing I discovered is that you need to take good care of your splitter, or you'll end up replacing the engine and/or the hydraulics. Pay attention to the service notes! Lots of splitters available on craigslist that hadn't been taken care of! For a very small investment, you can buy an hour meter and maintenance reminder from Sears -- do so, and you'll get better service from your splitter.
OK, on to the review. This is actually made by MTD for Troybilt, so it is very similar to the models sold at Home Depot and Ace Hardware. However, it has the 5.5HP Honda engine, which has a much better service record than the Briggs and Stratton. B&S also overrates their HP, so the 5.5HP Honda engine is more powerful than the 6.5HP B&S. The 27 ton hydraulic ram is much better made than the 25 ton version available for the same price at HD.
The splitter comes pre-assembled where I purchased it, including the hydraulic fluid and motor oil, so all I had to do was drive the truck over with a 2" ball, hook it up, and drive off. The unit is fairly heavy duty for homeowner use, but balanced good enough so that it is easy enough to roll around by hand. Got it home, filled it up with gas, and it started right up (2nd pull). Note: Very easy pull start -- I'm right handed and can pull start it with my left hand. Wife is small and had no problems starting it either. Nice, quiet engine -- quieter than my lawn mower.
The ram tilts for horizontal and vertical use: originally I thought I would mainly use it horizontally, but I used it to split some 36" diameter chunks, and there was no way I was going to lift those on to the splitter in the horizontal position, so vertical was a lifesaver in that respect.
The two stage pump is nice -- it rarely kicks in, but definitely does so when you hit a big knot, etc. Nothing seems to slow down the ram -- it just keeps going, and you barely hear the engine struggle, even on the big pieces.
I've split a couple of cords of wood with it, been through the first oil change, and must say that I'm very happy with the investment.
Good: More than enough power for average home owner, well built, easy start, quiet, easy to move around, horizontal and vertical operation, up to 25" long logs. Replacement parts easily available from MTD.
Bad: Fenders are plastic and won't stand up to much abuse. Hydraulic hoses don't have a protective metal sheathing. Ram cycle time is 19 seconds vs. 13 seconds on bigger units. Doesn't come standard with light kit (for towing). Only 1.1 qt gas tank, but then again, it runs for 2 hours on that. Oil change is a pain -- plug positioned so that it drains onto the base and gets everywhere. Change the oil outside!
Amazon.com: Customer Reviews: Troy-Bilt 160cc Honda OHC Logsplitter #24BF572B766
