Wood Splitter - Iron & Oak - Need feedback

[Reg]

If/when I ever get back into it {New wood stove & re-do the basement first}
I would spread out the cutting and splitting over however long it takes.
I don't feel a need to get 8 or 9 cords cut split and stacked in a single week-end, or two, even in three.
I would get a tree length load as early as possible and make the only goal to have it stacked before the weather gets TOO warm. I think using the maul actually stretches out the back and shoulders from the stooping. For MOST oak and maple it is in any case quicker than hauling it to the splitter and working that thing. Just pop 'em up on end where they're cut and quarter them, gather once and stack by the gardenway cart load - OK, FEL bucket if I feel lazy.
I agree, the tough stuff is the tough stuff and I probably need to get better about just not fighting it. Maybe I should slice it up into 6 inch thick rounds and stuff those in the stove sideways. Plan B, borrow the splitter back from the SIL for ONLY the tough stuff once I've set it aside (-:

 

[wolc123]

Back strain should be your first consideration when purchasing a splitter. The worst splitters are those that only work horizontal with a low beam. These are typically 3pt models or older, cheaper engine models. I think I would prefer a good maul over one of those types. Your back will pay the price for these. I use a horizontal/vertical type with a higher beam. You stand up straight while splitting smaller logs with the beam horizontal...no back strain. I even cut the smaller logs standing next to the trailer while they are still on it so there is also no need to bend over while cutting. Trailer and splitter are about at the same height so there is no need to bend over, therefore no back strain at all. I cut larger logs on the ground and roll the chunks over to the splitter in the vertical mode where I can take a seat as I work as others have explained, and again, no back strain. With the right equipment, I find splitting wood to be an enjoyable, relaxing pastime. With the wrong equipment (maul, axe, or low horizontal splitter) you will suffer aches and pains to your elbows, shoulders and back, especially as you get older. If you do prefer the axe or maul method, you can reduce the arthritis-causing impacts to your joints slightly by using a fiberglass handle.

 

[dmccarty]

What did you not like about the Troy Bilt?

D.

Another engine to maintain.

But more importantly the operator would be bent over must of the time compared to the SpeeCo 3PH splitter from TSC. I can work all day with the 3PH spiitter but there is no way I could work that long with the TroyBilt or anyother splitter set up that low to the ground.

Later,
Dan

 

[ddivinia]

I have the American MSR (horizontal) Log splitter, wood conveyor and firewood processor by American CLS
three point with a 20 gpm pto pump on my JD 3320. I have used the vertical and am not thrilled with it as you must either work on the ground, or hold the wood on the small platform while it splits. Also, you cannot use the slip on 4 way wedge with the vertical models.

I have equipped my splitter with the "pans" which catch the wood after splitting so it does not fall to the ground and guides so the wood does not fall off the beam before/while splitting. I also have the 4 way wedge. I had it made with a 36" opening to accomodate longer wood used in my wood boler. I like the 3ph model as I can raise of lower the splitter to my desired height. It is plenty powerful and as fast as I need it. I have not used too many other splitters, but I would not want one much faster.

I compared the American to the Timberwolf. Although the Timberwolf looked like a great machine, I could not justify the additional price for the Timbewolf. I just did not see the added value. Also, Timberwolf had a maximum 26" opening, which I felt was too small given I have an outdoor boiler. I believe Timberwolf now goes larger than 26", but not on 3ph models(?).

I am very pleased with the American. Nice fit and finish. I priced the 3ph model against one with an engine. Even with the PTO pump, the 3ph model was much cheaper.

Please let me know if you have any specific questions.

How much was that unit?

I had pretty much decided on a 27ton from Tractor supply and forget about the 3pt model. Tell me more.

D.

 

[RobJ]

I had the same intent you have early in Dec. I was looking at the TSC 3pt mount. I ended up buying a self contained towable from TSC instead. The reasons were as follows:
1) I don't have to remove and reinstall the Splitter when I need different implements.
2) the self contained unit is 22 ton, the 3pt was only 12.5 tons on my tractor(2000psi)
3) I can leave the splitter at my wood pile and use it for quick work when I need it.
Harold

Totally agree. This is right up there on my list like a PTO driven generator. Why limit it to having a tractor around. And according to the prices posted by using your OWN power you get to pay 400-500 bucks more??? Sad thing is it makes perfect sense.

 

[ddivinia]

Does anybody have a good dealer for timerwolf?

I just prices a Timberwolf TW-3 - PTO powered splitter.

$1995
4 way wedge - $395
Working table - $295
Shipping - $385
Total - $3070

Comments?

Man, that is a lot of dough for a splitter. The one I was going to go with at TSC is $1300...

D.

 

[RobJ]

Ouch!! More than half of what I paid for my tractor, FM and BH!! Combined!!

 

[ScottOkla]

I got the 22ton made by SpeeCo this past fall. It has the Briggs engine.

I researched it quite a bit on Arboristsite. Most people really like it.

It has been an excellent choice up until this point. We split all pecan, some large and knotty. It will not have a problem with any pecan.

We have split about 4 cord thus far. Not a single problem. Plus, I love to be able to leave it where I want and push it around by hand at the downed trees to make my work easier.

 

[Rara Avis]

Does anybody have a good dealer for timerwolf?

I just prices a Timberwolf TW-3 - PTO powered splitter.

$1995
4 way wedge - $395
Working table - $295
Shipping - $385
Total - $3070

Comments?

Man, that is a lot of dough for a splitter. The one I was going to go with at TSC is $1300...

D.

Call their 800 number for dealers near you...

Timberwolf Wood Processing Equipment

 

[Splitter Mike]

Iron and Oak wood splitters have definitely been an excellent splitter for us. The quality is amazing when you really compare side by side. The extra money is will worth it IMO.