Chipper Too much HP for a Chipper?

[Foozle]

Thanks for the feedback. The cost of the 5" Bearcat, for me, was $3,600, including the blower. Took delivery today but haven't had a chance to try it yet. I believe it is belt driven. I have a fair amount of dry wood on the property - guess I'll have to be careful with that.

The 8" was about $5,200, so didn't want to spend the extra $1,600 because of the 5 extra HP. Hope it holds up -- if not, the dealer said they'd take care of it anyway (and I have that in writing).

 

[joes_427_vette]

I have the 8" Bearcat chipper with a 3 belt drive system. I run it with a D-15 Allis Chalmers ( 45 hp ) and it has a hearty appetite. I needs an automatic feed system which is pretty expensive. Main wheel is 175-185 # with 4 knives and it is hard to slow the system after it reaches operating speed.

 

[BobRip]

You could slow the engine down on the tractor so it is on the point of the power curve where it is only 45 HP. Of course it would be running slower and that might affect the cutting.