3pt or Stand Alone Splitter

Rich B1 · May 9, 2021

I have a Speeco 3PT splitter. All of my wood is cut when it is time to split, so no dealing with logs. I have developed a routine of handling/splitting/stacking that largely negates the speed issue.

A 3PT splitter may not be for everyone, but it works well for me. And no separate engine to maintain

PILOON · May 9, 2021

I DIY'd my splitter.

5 ft channel ($40.00), 24 inch 'dozer lift cylinder ($25.00) and valve ($80.00)
Made it 3 point mounted using my CUT hydraulics.
OK, slowish but fast enough 4 me.

Not that I use it all that much but has served me flawlessly.
I created a linkage/lever return system so that it has automatic return stop.
To split I need to manually position the valve and hold it open. (safer that way)

This is mounted on my 3 point using quick connects 4 hydraulics.
Lots of power! I have cut green 4-5 inch maple into lengths just for fun occasionally.

For sure if I split on a commercial basis it would be a lost cause but was a very satisfactory DIY project.
I have had occasion to compare usage to a factory splitter as well as a commercial screw type and surprisingly my DIY holds its place with pride.

3 point does have advantages, you can re position easily as the stock of rounds diminish and/or the splits get in the way.
Downside is hefting any huge/oversized rounds. (huge is rare around here)

I made it at the time mainly to prove that I could but then it merely cost me more than a few rentals would have.
LOL but I don't heat with wood anymore.

dodge man · May 9, 2021

This is my setup. It’s a 15 ton and about as cheap as you can get in gas powered. Maybe $700. It has a Honda clone engine and other than mice eating the wiring once has been trouble free. It has always split anything I’ve thrown at it, no matter how twisted and knotty.

ruffdog · May 9, 2021

Here is a good video by Messick's that discusses if you should buy a splitter for your tractor.

MossRoad · May 9, 2021

ruffdog said:
Here is a good video by Messick's that discusses if you should buy a splitter for your tractor.

Good to see the salesman giving a good pro-con list.

grsthegreat · May 9, 2021

Mines vertical. I back into pile of rounds and go at it. Very little lifting of rounds

PJohnson · May 9, 2021

These are all very thought provoking responses. Thank you very much!

grsthegreat · May 9, 2021

PJohnson said:
These are all very thought provoking responses. Thank you very much!

That’s what we like to do...confuse people

KennyG · May 9, 2021

This is a very individual issue. It's pretty clear that a stand alone works best for most people and that is why they outsell 3 point units by a large margin, even among tractor owners. However, I would never give up my 3 point splitter. Because it's a two way splitter with a relatively small cylinder it works with my small tractor and is just right for the way I work and the 3 or 4 cords a year I split.

Firefighter Kubota · May 10, 2021

I love my 3 point splitter... Running a powerhorse on my Kubota B series... Its a dual direction splitter , which makes up for the slower speed. Handles 18" logs, perfect for my stove...

On the three point mount I can adjust the height, and it's one less engine to worry about / maintain especially with all the E85 fuel...

I've had it for 12 years... And wouldn't change a thing..