Need a new log spliiter... thinking 37 Ton NorthStar?

[JohnTso]

I need to upgrade from my 3pt log splitter. I've been doing my DD and found the NorthStar line to be robust and made from quality components. The price of $1799.00 is really appealing and I doubt I could build it for much less. I won't have to pay for shipping, because I'll make the drive to pick it up at the nearest NT store.

I split mostly oak, cherry, locust and elm. The vertical will really help with the 30 - 36" rounds. The 30 ton version would probably work, but it's a little slower. All comments are welcome.

Specs:
Ram Force (Tons): 37
Operation: Horizontal / vertical
Max. Log Size L x W (in.): 25 x 16
Continuous Force (Tons): 34.3
Engine: Honda GX with idle control
Engine Displacement (cc): 270
Low Oil Shutdown: Yes
Wedge: Cast steel
Cycle Time (sec.): 14
Automatic Cylinder Return: Yes
Cylinder: 5in. x 24in.
Pump: Barnes 16 GPM, 2-stage
Max. PSI: 3,500
Oil Reservoir (gal.): 9
Log Cradle: Yes
Jack Stand: Yes

Here's the link to it: NorthStar Horizontal/Vertical Log Splitter 37-Ton, 270cc | Log Splitters | Northern Tool + Equipment

 

[Blast Chamber]

I don't have anything to share about that NorthStar splitter, but I'm wondering what you are planning to do with your old 3-point splitter? I've been thinking about buying or building one.

 

[murphy1244]

Give Tractor supply a try. I bought a 35 ton around the same price and it is beefier than that one.

 

[JohnTso]

I don't have anything to share about that NorthStar splitter, but I'm wondering what you are planning to do with your old 3-point splitter? I've been thinking about buying or building one.

I'm going to sell it. Currently running the 3pt log splitter from the loader valve block on my B7800 - I don't have remotes. It's a heavy duty 5" ram and my B7800 just doesn't have the flow. As a result, it pretty slow. It a very heavy duty setup and works very well.

With the price of propane going through the roof, I've been burning more wood. I've got to speed up the process.

 

[JohnTso]

Give Tractor supply a try. I bought a 35 ton around the same price and it is beefier than that one.

Tractor Supply sells the Speeco and Husky (also made by Speeco) brands. They make a nice unit, but their 4-way accessory splitter is only for softwoods. Since I only burn hardwoods it rules them out.

 

[Blast Chamber]

I'm going to sell it. Currently running the 3pt log splitter from the loader valve block on my B7800 - I don't have remotes. It's a heavy duty 5" ram and my B7800 just doesn't have the flow. As a result, it pretty slow. It a very heavy duty setup and works very well.

With the price of propane going through the roof, I've been burning more wood. I've got to speed up the process.

Sent you a PM.

 

[hodge]

If the price is right, buy it. My dad has the 30 ton model. We looked at the Husky's, and the Northstar is better built. If for no other reason, the splitting wedge is better designed. It is curved, with a nib at the top- most others just have a splitting wedge with a straight cutting edge. The nib at the top keeps the wood from kicking up if the end against the base is cut crooked. We have used many different kinds, and this machine/design has been the best. Plus, the Husky splitters that I have seen had Briggs engines, while the Northstar has Honda engines. I highly recommend it.
Plus, in my humble opinion, Northern Tool is better to deal with than TSC when it comes to parts and service- at least in reference to the stores in my location.

 

[JohnTso]

If the price is right, buy it. My dad has the 30 ton model. We looked at the Husky's, and the Northstar is better built. If for no other reason, the splitting wedge is better designed. It is curved, with a nib at the top- most others just have a splitting wedge with a straight cutting edge. The nib at the top keeps the wood from kicking up if the end against the base is cut crooked. We have used many different kinds, and this machine/design has been the best. Plus, the Husky splitters that I have seen had Briggs engines, while the Northstar has Honda engines. I highly recommend it.
Plus, in my humble opinion, Northern Tool is better to deal with than TSC when it comes to parts and service- at least in reference to the stores in my location.

I like the Honda's better too. All the NorthStar splitters have Honda engines with the auto idle feature. Not have to run a higher RPM's continuously makes a huge difference in fuel consumption.

Does the 30 Ton NorthStar perform well on hardwood logs? I ask because the 30 Ton is nearly $200.00 less expensive.

 

[murphy1244]

Mine came with the Honda gx engine...

 

[SPYDERLK]

Tractor Supply sells the Speeco and Husky (also made by Speeco) brands. They make a nice unit, but their 4-way accessory splitter is only for softwoods. Since I only burn hardwoods it rules them out.

What makes it only for softwoods?
larry