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Buying A Log Splitter?

Here's everything you need to know to help you make the right decision!

1. What type of wood will you be splitting?

The species of the tree is a strong determinant of the pounds of force needed to split your logs. For example, an Oak tree log requires 1350 pounds of pressure to split, based solely on its level of hardness.

2. What size logs will you be working with?

Next, measure the diameter of the branches you want to split. This will also tell you how many pounds of pressure will be needed to perform. For example, splitting logs that are 24ʺ – 36ʺ wide from that same Oak tree will require a 35-ton log splitter to ensure you get the job done right.

2. How green is the wood you will be splitting?

Also, determining how seasoned or green the wood is will play a factor in how easily the logs will split. Just like when trying to burn wood, the greener (wetter) the limbs, the harder they are to burn (or cut, or split). Splitting logs from a freshly fallen tree may add an additional 10 tons or so of capacity needed to do an adequate job.

Here are some other factors to consider before buying a log splitter:

Readily Available Parts

How responsive is the customer service? Usually a domestic support team is a good sign that you should expect a quick turnaround on replacement parts if needed.

Design Enhancements

Do added features like log trays, dual loading capability, 1-person assembly, metal fenders, etc. add to the cost, or are they included as standard?

Cycle Time

The shorter the cycle time, the quicker it will split logs. Will you be able to keep up with a cycle time of 15 – 16 seconds? That’s pretty ideal. – See more at: https://yardmax.com/support/buying-a-log-splitter/#sthash.mz865jld.dpuf

Stroke Limiter

The stroke limiter allows you to set the wedge to stop at a point nearest to the length of the shorter logs.

Motor

Does the motor have enough horse power to handle the job? What’s its hydraulic capacity?

Construction

The level of engineering, quality of materials and design strength will go a long way in determining how durable the splitter will be.

Warranty

Will the manufacturer stand behind its product? A two-year residential warranty is optimal in the industry – it says that the brand believes in its equipment.

Portability

Does the splitter have wheels or a ball hitch for easy transporting? If you’re going to want to use your new splitter at your vacation home, this will be an important criteria for you to consider.

Remoteness of Application

What’s your access to electrical power when using your splitter? Can you plug in somewhere and use a clean, non-fuel burning electric splitter, or do you need the cordless functionality of a gas-powered one?

Log Length

It might be easier to split longer logs vertically, so many larger gas splitter options provide the ability to split in both a horizontal and vertical position.

Discover which option is right for you:

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