Honda engine for log splitter

[skenk]

I have a Honda GX340 (11hp) with a 2:1 gear reducer on it. I was thinking about using it to drive a 2 stage hydraulic pump for a log splitter. Some quick research suggested that most splitter engines/pumps are expected to be run at 3600 rpm to maximize speed (and power?) while splitting. If my math is right, I will only be getting approximately 1800 rpm at the shaft if the engine is running at 3600 rpm.

I guess there are a few options and I am looking for advice before I continue.
1. Install the engine coupled directly to a pump and live with the speed.
2. Install the engine and increase the speed back up using belts or chains.
3. Look for another engine.

Although it is a good engine I don't think it is worth it to replace the crank (and other parts) to convert it back to a standard configuration.

Any input is greatly appreciated.

 

[muddstopper]

If you do decide to connect pump straight to shaft, just be prepared for a slow cycle on the splitter. Low rpms means low oil flow. My thoughts are to look for another engine without the gear reduction. Before I would try to gear the speedup with drive chains, I think I would just find a good vertical shaft riding mower engine and adapt to that. You can always find a worn out mower with a good engine pretty cheap. Most are larger hp and electric start.

 

[J_J]

Using the Honda motor as is, will allow the pump to pump half of the pump capacity.

You could gear it up and meet the speed requirements of the pump.

The GPM's from the hyd pump determines the speed of the cyl, and pressure will determine the force.

 

[simonsays]

If you do decide to connect pump straight to shaft, just be prepared for a slow cycle on the splitter. Low rpms means low oil flow. My thoughts are to look for another engine without the gear reduction. Before I would try to gear the speedup with drive chains, I think I would just find a good vertical shaft riding mower engine and adapt to that. You can always find a worn out mower with a good engine pretty cheap. Most are larger hp and electric start.

I have the same idea in mind for my build. I found a craftsman with a 18hp vertical briggs on CL for $120.:thumbsup:

 

[2458n]

Is the pump to motor connection available? Or do you have to fab one for the vertical motor hook up?

 

[Renze]

cant you just pull off the gear reductor ?

 

[muddstopper]

cant you just pull off the gear reductor ?

You could if yo want to add gearing to speed it back up. The current gear ratio wouldnt let the engine turn the pump fast enough to maximize pump flow. The pump would still make the same pressure, but flow would be cut in half.

Is the pump to motor connection available? Or do you have to fab one for the vertical motor hook up?

I one time found and adapter on the internet for mounting a pump to a vertical shaft engine, but Have looked again for it and have neve been able to find one. So I guess the answer is yes someone makes a factor mount, I just dont know who it is. Most people endup fabing a mount to put a pump on a vertical shaft engine. You can also use a pedestal type mount that would bolt to the frame instead of the engine, just have to take the time to get it lined up properly

 

[Renze]

You could if yo want to add gearing to speed it back up. The current gear ratio wouldnt let the engine turn the pump fast enough to maximize pump flow. The pump would still make the same pressure, but flow would be cut in half.

Thats not what i meant. I meant unscrew it and toss it away. Honda doesnt build two versions of the same engine, but instead bolts a gear reducer to a standard engine if you want 1800rpm for a 60Hz generator dont they ?

 

[muddstopper]

Now that you mention it, You may be right, not 100% sure you are, but need to look to make sure. If thats the case, just remove the gear reducer and do a direct mount.

 

[Eyecatcher]

Renze: You are wrong. I have the identical gear reduction Honda, setting on my bench right now. It is built to operate a cement mixer, or other device that requires a lower drive speed. The gear case cover, crankshaft etc. are all different on the gear reduced engine. Trade it to someone for a straight engine. The gear reduction is quite a bit more expensive than the straight engine.