Bizarre log splitter idea

[oldboyscout]

(I've tried to move this from the build it yourself forum)

Please don't flame me, i"m just a poor joe trying to save my back. I've been using a 10 ton HF manual splitter occasionally between strokes of the maul, and this idea flashed in my head:
Is there a way to connect the loader hydraulic port (quick connect) to the HF splitter cylinder and use the loader controls? I'm not looking for anything fast or fancy. Just wondering if it's possible.

The big piston is 1 3/4" X8" travel. The 2 small pistons that you pump by hand are very small.

the one piston is 1/2" diameter travels 1 3/4" and moves the big piston 1/8".

the other piston is slightly larger and moves the big piston farther but with less force.


http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/build-yourself/218656-bizarre-log-splitter-idea.html

 

[oldboyscout]

I don't know if the second pump opening or the cylinder return screw can be used as a fluid return?

otherwise, If I bought a small double acting cylinder from TS, could I run it from the loader CONTROL?

 

[bcp]

HF says it has an 8 1/8 inch stroke. It may be hard to find an 8 inch or more stroke cylinder with a short enough length to replace the jack.

You could rebuild it for a longer cylinder.

Manual Hydraulic Log Splitter - 10 Ton

Bruce

 

[oldboyscout]

Yes I have to measure the overall length to compare to the TSC 8" cylinders. If I could convert this for the cost of a cylinder and hoses it would be worth it.
If I have to start really rebuilding it, then I'll probably start from scratch and build a big heavy one.

 

[oldboyscout]

like this:
Heavy-duty Double Acting Cylinder, 8 Stroke x 4 in. dia. - 1834606 | Tractor Supply Company
maybe I could cut the ears off and just well it on if it's close in length

 

[LD1]

If I could convert this for the cost of a cylinder and hoses it would be worth it.
If I have to start really rebuilding it, then I'll probably start from scratch and build a big heavy one.

I guess I fail to see how it is worth it????????

If cost is the same, would you rather have only ONE cylinder...the one you converted, or

A new cylinder and keep the one that came on it for a bottle jack for the shop.

Again, if cost were the same, get a new cylinder.

But again, we are only talking pennies here A new cylinder shouldnt be more than ~$50 or $60 bucks.

And if you decide to go the "start from scratch" route I would suggest you price some units first. Both 3PH and stand alone units. Because unless you already have a few of the major components (valve, beam, cylinder, etc) you will have more money wrapped up into a homemade unit that you would have a GOOD store bought unit W/warrenty.

 

[oldboyscout]

I'd be willing to spend the cost of a cylinder and hoses to make this work, but no more. Otherwise I i'll save up to buy a real 22 ton splitter.

 

[LD1]

Otherwise I i'll save up to buy a real 22 ton splitter.

Thats probabally your best choice:thumbsup: Around my parts, they can be had for $999 at TSC for their speeco/huskee. And they are an excellent splitter.

 

[Natureboy]

What LD1 said. Earlier in the year TSC had the 22 ton for $999. AND you got a $150. TSC gift card with the purchase. Or else try to get on their mailing list for the occasional 10% off coupon.

 

[Brad_Blazer]

The manual jack on the splitter requires about 10,000 psi to generate it's rated force so there is no way to power it from the tractor hydraulics. If you replace it with a hydraulic cylinder, don't go bigger than 3" or you might exceed the design limit of the frame.

The smaller dual split models from Northern are $550 for a 3ph model and $800 for engine driven.

You'll have at least $200 plus the current $100 value of the manual splitter tied up in a machine that will have less than 1/5 of the utility of the $550 dual split. I fairness the 3ph dual split will require $50-100 in hoses and quick connects. Figure another $50-100 if you have to add a power beyond access point. The engine driven model is starting to look good, no?

My 3ph splitter has a 4x24 cylinder and with my tractor hydraulics it is really a 14 ton machine. It will cut oak across the grain and I've never stopped it. The reason they make 30 ton splitters is the same reason they make 25hp lawn tractors: shoppers compare machines by looking at the number.