Chipper Valby LC600 or Wallenstein 62r

[fishingreg]

These both seem to be good units when it comes to chippers. To me it seems neither is the best unit for all situations but I would like to bounce my logic off y'all. I have a L3400 which is rated to run both of these but not by much. Probably very few branches will be 6" but I might have one every now and then and want the ability. 99% of what I chip will be west Texas cedars that do not have a single trunk but rather all branches start at the base and go up to 30 feet or so. They do have some sap but also oil. I have read several posts where the direct drive Wallenstein has issues clogging when chipping trees heavy in sap. I have heard the double RPM on the valby overcomes this. Yes belts may have issues down the line but cleaning out the chute plain sucks in my opinion. I am not willing to let cut branches lay and collect snakes, whatever shreader I get must be capable of shreading them as soon as I cut it. So all that being said, please give me thoughts and opinions. I've heard the pitches from both manufacturers, I'm hoping for personal experiences and thoughts.

Thanks

 

[Ductape]

I've never run a Valby, but they do have a great reputation. I have owned the Wallenstein, and highly recommend it. With either unit, you will want to check the blade to anvil clearance, and make sure it is set properly (per the manufactureres spec). Often, the gap is set too wide right from the factory. As far as clogging, I find it is more of a procedural problem. When chipping small leafy branches, feed one in, then follow it with a thicker limb. The heavier chips from the larger branch will push the leafy stuff right through. If most of your limbs are very leafy, consider a chipper/shredder. Does your tractor have a 1000 RPM PTO? If so.... it seems I recall the Wallenstein can run on the 1000 RPM setting also..... but double check this, as it has been a few years since I've owned mine.

 

[fishingreg]

Thanks Ductape,

My Tractor does only have a 540 but you are right the Wallensteins go to 1000. I would think that would make a big difference for those with a 1000 PTO chipping more difficult sappy or leafy stuff. I really have no leafs as it is cedar but I have sticky.

 

[Grandude]

I have a Wallenstein BX-62 and I am very unhappy with it. Even very small branches jam the feed. The hydraulic powered rollers have very little grip and are not very parallel. There is some skew in the top roller. I called Wallenstein and they wouldn't give me the time of day just said call your dealer. Hydraulic hoses had a very short life. If i am feeding in junipers it will last about 15 minutes before I have to take the chute apart and unclog it. There is a bottleneck where the rotating part meets the bottom feed.

 

[Ortimber]

I have a Wallenstein BX-62 and it works very well for most things. Branches with heavy needles will clog it occasionally but other than that it's a solid performer.

I mainly run it on my 70HP tractor, but have also put it on my L3901. I can say that having just over 30 PTO HP is barely enough, and you have to be selective as to what you feed it or you will stall your tractor.

I don't have any knowledge of the Valby brand.