Determine Needs Before Getting Lot Splitter
Whether renting or buying, the process of getting a log splitter can take some time when you have to determine which one will be the best for your needs at the most economical price. If you are preparing to split large amounts of wood and have to do so on a regular basis, a heavy-duty log splitter may be the best choice. If the logs are relatively small and the wood is of a softer sort, a 12 ton would be most likely be sufficient with a 20 ton being the better choice for woods which have an unknown consistency. The wood’s hardness should also impact the decision, as the log’s size and the amount of wood are not the sole aspects to consider. For woods that are harder, it is best to use one with a higher tonnage.
Questions to be Answered
If you are planning on sharing your log splitter with family members or neighbors, the majority of log splitters come equipped with a means to transport the equipment such as wheels. The smaller the splitters, the more easily the equipment can be lifted into a vehicle or a truck’s bed while a larger splitter is able to be towed behind trucks or four-wheelers if you possess a hitch. Fortunately, the majority of log splitters can be transported. Another question that needs to be answered is what type of splitter will fit your needs. There are a number of different types of log splitters that are available for purchase under two categories of operation…gas or electric. It largely depends upon the fuel form that is used. If you are located in a location, which is remote, the best choice is probably a manual splitter. If you are located near an outlet, an electric splitter would be beneficial. In order to ensure the utmost portability in large projects, a gas hydraulic splitter is probably the best choice. Although shopping locally may be more fun, it is typically cheaper to shop online. However, be careful about shipping as large splitters may cost a lot to ship due to their weight.
Operation of the Log Splitter
To operate the splitter, the log is placed on the platform up against the splitter plate. When the machine is turned on, the splitter plate passes towards the sharp wedge at the machine’s end. The log is then pushed against the equipment’s wedge, thereby splitting it in two.
Quality is largely determined by the price of the equipment. Log splitters cut down on the time and energy it takes to clean up after felling a tree or getting firewood ready for winter. However, when using a log splitter or other outdoor power equipment, it’s particularly important to pay attention to the instructions to ensure safe operation.
Know Safety Tips Before Firing Up Splitter
It is important to know how to stop the machine and disengage quickly. Never allow children under 16 years old to operate this machine. Children 16 years old and over should read and understand instructions and log splitter safety rules in this manual and should be trained and supervised by a parent. Many accidents occur when more than one person operates the machine. Keep bystanders, pets and children at least 20 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Do not use this machine for any other purpose than splitting wood. Always wear safety shoes or heavy boots when using a log splitter. Wear safety glasses or safety goggles whenever operating this machine. Never wear jewelry or loose clothing that might become entangled in moving or rotating parts of outdoor power equipment. Always block the machine to prevent unintended movement, and lock in either horizontal or vertical position. Cut logs so they have square ends prior to splitting.