Charlie:
The Kiwi is a pile driver type driver. The important thing on this type of driver is the amount of impact that the driver hits with. The Kiwi hits with well ovber 100,000 pound of impact. This impact is derived from the following: While the hydraulic cylinder raises the large I-beam driver, it is also extending two large and heavy springs. When the oil is released from the one way cylinder, the springs throw that 1000 lb piece of iron down to the post at a very fast rate. The driver very seldom splits posts. It is not good, however for driving small light posts, They will normally just sort of explode. We usually drive 5" or 6" diameter southern yellow pine posts. These posts are very dense and straight. They will weigh around 80 lbs each.