American brand 3PH log splitters

rkhpapa · May 13, 2009

Just wondering if anybody had any experience with these splitters made by American. I have a chance to buy one that seems "next to new" for $800.
I understand that they're made in upstate NY. I looked at their website, but it didn't offer pricing or a dealer locator. Does this look like a deal??
Any input would be helpful....I don't want to wait until November to get goin' on the splittin'.
Thanks,
Rich

irvingj · May 13, 2009

A few weeks ago I went down to the NH seacoast to see one in action... It was a Powerhorse brand on the back of a Kubtoa (L series?).

It seemed well made, the owner was quite pleased with it. It wasn't real fast, but if you're just doing your own wood that might be OK; I thought it would be fine for me. On the positive side, it didn't require a high GPM flow of hydraulic fluid --would work on my GC2310-- and had plenty of power. The blade also was double-ended, so it works in both directions- no need to return each time.

I decided to borrow a splitter instead, but if I didn't have access to one I'd seriously consider it. There's a thread somewhere on it, with some pics, but I'll post one here from my visit.

RickB · May 13, 2009

rkhpapa said:
Just wondering if anybody had any experience with these splitters made by American. I have a chance to buy one that seems "next to new" for $800.
I understand that they're made in upstate NY. I looked at their website, but it didn't offer pricing or a dealer locator. Does this look like a deal??
Any input would be helpful....I don't want to wait until November to get goin' on the splittin'.
Thanks,
Rich

American is the only splitter we sell at my workplace. Maybe a dozen per year or so, various configurations. Very few to no problems or complaints. As shortline manufacturers go, they are good to work with from a dealer's standpoint. I would recommend them highly. I bet Chappell or Townline sells their stuff.

irvingj · May 13, 2009

Oops! I read, "made by Americans." Didn't realize "American" was also a brand name.... Powerhorse is, however, American-made.

rkhpapa · May 14, 2009

No harm..no foul, IrvingJ, thanks for the response.
RickB, I bought the used one, and am still looking to find out more about it. I've left a VM with American CLS, but I'm not sure that I'll hear back.
There's a sticker on the cylinder of this thing that says "40TC24-200". I assume that's the model number. Do you know anything about it? Where I might get a manual, spec sheet, parts list, etc?
Thanks in advance.
Rich

sixgun · May 14, 2009

I purchased the 3ph horizontal model with 24" stroke and 12 gpm pto pump for my B2710 a few months ago. I've only split a few cords so far but it works great and is fast enough for me when running the 'bota's motor at 2000 rpm.

I moved the splitter away from the tractor a bit by using some sturdy angle stock and remounting the drawbar. I also fabricated a bracket to replace the anti-rotation chain on the pump.

My limited exposure to American products doesn't qualify me as an authority, but I'm happy with the fit, finish and operation of the splitter.

sjcmba · May 20, 2009

I have an American horizontal 3 point hitch model purchased two years ago. I love it and it was reasonably priced vs. Timberwolf. American is still in business as far as I know...they are a relatively small company with a few key people. Keep calling, as I from what I heard, they are back logged with orders. Perhaps this is why you haven't heard back. I would buy another in a heartbeat.

Hope this helps.

Scott

rkhpapa · May 21, 2009

Thanks, SJCMBA.
I bought it and have split a few pieces. Generally speaking, it seems fast enough for what I'm doing.
What type of tractor setup are you using? My L4400 has rear hydraulics, so I'm just tapping into those and holding the valve open with a bungee cord. Is that OK? Is there a better way?
Thanks,

sjcmba · May 26, 2009

rkhpapa:

I have a John Deere 3320. I purchased the optional 20gph PTO pump rather then plumbing directly to my tractor. My tractor did not have sufficent hydraulic flow to run the splitter fast enough. I'm not sure how large your tractor is, but if it is running the splitter properly, then I guess it is ok. I'm not a hydraulics expert, so I'm not sure if your setup could be improved.....sorry.

Scott

rkhpapa · May 26, 2009

Thanks, anyway. My tractor is 45HP with rear hydraulics. I just plugged the lines in, held the hydraulic valve open with a bungee cord, set the throttle to approx. 2200 rpm, and off she went. It's not going to set any production records, but it's plenty fast enough for what I want to do.