Used Log Splitter
Used Log Splitters-Which is the best for the money?
Before we even think about buying a used log splitter we need to understand the basic of what types are available and which will work best for the type of wood and capacity required for our needs. Most log splitters are either powered by gas or electric and are very basic in their designs and do not vary that much from one machine to another. You basically place a log in a v form or cradle so that it is not going to jump out once the split starts and then a wedge or ram with a sharp blade is slowly driven into the the piece of wood with enough power to slowly split the log into 2 pieces.
If you have ever had to cut wood by hand, and granted it is exceptional exercise, it has never been easier then it is now to cut wood with today’s modern marvels. Some people consider the best wood to be any straight grained woods like walnut, hickory, pecan or oak. Personally I like birch, not so much for the ease of splitting but the way it burns in the fireplace. It is a much lighter wood and burns quickly but the crackle of the birch is very soothing after a day in the woods chopping trees.
There are many brands and styles of log splitters and it is imperative that you do your research before your purchase your used log splitter. The top brands on the market are troy bilt, timber wolf, huskee, ryobi, mtd, just to name a few. Another thing to keep in mind about your transaction is shipping…log splitters are HEAVY and unless the company pays for shipping you are in for a few hundred in shipping costs.
Some of the best splitters are listed below and start with the timber wolf. One of the largest models is the TW-P1 and is powered by a Honda 5.5 hp OHV engine and a 11 GPM hydraulic pump, considered to be the grand daddy of splitters the timber wolf can handle up to 26 inch logs and the hydraulic force is 20 tons split cycle. The unit is a behemoth and is trailer mounted for professional use. The only drawback for the weekend log splitter is the cost coming in at around $2000.
If 2 grand is a bit steep the brave ez split comes in at around $900 and is powered by a 3.5 hp briggs and stratton engine and delivers in at 8 tons in a 18 sec split cycle. The only drawback to this machine gleaned form some reviews on the internet in the engine. People either love or hate B&S engines and the reviews I found were not that charitable. The unit is light enough to pick up the front end and pull by the wheels if you have the strength…
If you are in the market for an electric splitter, coming in at a little over $400 is the fisch ls-8000 4 ton splitter, basically designed for the homeowner and utilizing a 2hp motor that delivers over 4tons of ram power. It can split logs up to 20 inches and 12 inches in diameter. Not mammoth logs by any means but most homeowners are not falling great sequoias. Electric splitters are a great deal quieter then there gas powered brothers and if you live in a subdivision that may or may not be a consideration. Always use a heavy gauge extension cord for electric splitters to avoid any blown fuses during use.
Another electric worth mention is the mantis log splitter #5005 it is designed for lighter loads and has received good reviews throughout.
If you are a Paul Bunyan wannabe and are looking for a pro model look no further then that troy bilt 27 ton log splitter coming in at around $1500 and offers electronic ignition, low oil alerts, and a dual element air cleaner with a 5.5 hp Honda engine, with 27 tons of ram pressure and a 14 sec split cycle you will have no problems cutting logs up to 25 inches. The unit will work and split in either horizontal or vertical positioning for the ultimate in versatility. the Honda engine is known for its quiet reliability and if you use more then 3 chords a year you may want to consider your very own troy bilt used log splitter.
For the thrifty minded that still need power another unit worth mentioning is a 30 ton unit from harbor freight. Now here again, people either love or hate harbor freight but there is no denying they have exceptionally prices owing to the fact that all their equipment comes from China. This behemoth runs on a 9hp engine and delivers over 30 tons of ram power. The drawback of HF equipment is assembly is required and when you are dealing with a piece of equipment this heavy…wear your steel toed boots. You must assemble the unit, fill the fluids. if you can find a decent price for shipping or have a local HF then check it out at around $1100.00
The brands will vary widely as will the prices,troy bilt log splitters, tractor log splitter, electric log splitter, skid steer log splitter or used timberwolf log splitters, they are all ready to be bought so do your homework.
Used Log splitter come in many sizes and shapes, and as we said before it is better to have too much power then too little. When you stress an engine and splitter by cutting wood too large you will eventually blow out the hydraulics so go bigger rather then be sorry in the future.