PTO Chipper Advice -- maneuverability and center of gravity concerns

[outdoorben]

I'm not knowledgable about the impact of flywheel weight, but I will say I'm very happy with my WC68 so far. Been chipping up a lot of cherry trees lately (we had a bunch taken down from our septic/pasture area). Cutting up the trunk/lower limbs for firewood and chipping anything 4" down.

Not regretted the choice for a moment.

I have no doubt I will love it. Was just overly venting frustration that I screwed up .

Since most of the stuff I’ll be chopping will be very soft, I anticipate zero problems at 4 to 5 inches based on reviews. Thanks!

 

[oosik]

I always have my grapple on the FEL when I use my Wallenstein chipper. So... a light front end has never been a problem.

I got to looking at my Wally chipper. Even when raised at its highest - I really doubt it has a whole lot of impact on overall center of gravity. I seldom raise it to full height - no need.

It really boils down to - where are you going with the chipper. If it feels like it might be "tippy" - probably a place where you don't want to be anyhow. "Things" can happen FAST - usually a whole lot faster than you can react.

 

[NC Rick]

Old post, sorry but I appreciate the read. I gave my 30 year old B7100hst Kubota to my son. I bought a Yanmar 325 with an FEL (this tractor builds a lot more time because of the uses). I have a steep area, no chance to mow without 4wd. I am planning to purchase a Woodmaxx 8500G+. I like the idea of the hydro feed. I want to be able to use my forks to place the chipper. Also, the C.G. Isn’t maybe as much of an issue compared to an 8600? The length and 740lbs vs 480lbs. The side slips and turning into places I want to chip. I am picturing using my grapple to position brush and tree parts into a good spot. I always see mention of Woodlad Mills, I have seen one which was available used but I wasn’t ready. Are Woodland Mills actually made in the USA also? wlallenstien is Canadian, which is fine but expensive.
I am not totally confident but I’m feeling ready to go with the Woodmaxx. I am reading all I can. Tell me if I am wrong or right? Thanks!

 

[Shady oak]

I had a woodland Mills’s W88. It was a good piece of equipment, which I sold due to no more wood burning in the house. That said I had it on a 955 Deere and it was a load. It weighed 1000 lbs. The hydraulics lifted it fine, but it did make one insecure. I never went across side hills, I backed up them. Also, while I’d did mostly stuff under two inches, I opted for the 88. It’s not the size of the limb that’s the problem, it’s the branches attached!