Very good. One guy who builds log splitters in a factory in CA told me to drop a magnet or two in the hydraulic fluid tank. It will catch any shavings or metal that may be floating around, Thanks for the video. Ken from Indiana.
You did an excellent job of describing the hydraulic circuit and components of a typical log splitter system. There is one clarification I would suggest to clear up a misconception that some have. You described the oil flow from the pump to the control valve and back to the tank when the valve is in the center neutral system as being "high pressure oil". These systems are open center (meaning the in and out ports of the valve are "open" to each other when the spool is centered) and therefore no resistance to the flow is present. This in turn means there will be very minimal pressure in the system, as it should be. Open center systems should only see high pressures when there is actual work being done (i.e. the initial split of the wood, which is what requires the high forces). Pressure is the enemy to fixed displacement hydraulic systems when it is present without productive work being done. That is what causes excessive heat and wear. A well designed circuit will have test port locations where a pressure gauge can be installed to check pressure status at various operating conditions and valve positions for troubleshooting. It is important to understand that pumps do not pump "pressure", they pump volume, a fixed volume in the case of these types of pumps. Pressure is the result of a RESISTANCE in the circuit to that flow. The greater the resistance to the flow rate, the greater the system pressure.
Finally a simple explanation on how it works. Thank you! I have a log lift on mine but it's manual lift which I want to change it to a hydraulic lift but I had no clue how the current set up works. Got it!
Very impressed, my log splitting still consists of me and my arms slamming a log splitting axe and I would love to be able to make something like this. Thanks for the explanation on how it all works for those of us not so familiar with using pressure tubing and the ram.
Excellent description! Finally someone who explains the circuit simple and complete. I have one question: how do you deal with the engine temperature as this kind of motors are refrigereted by air and if not may overheat? Thanks a lot. Great job!
Nice tutorial. One safety issue I notice is that looks like a cast iron elbow (plumbing grade) on the outlet of the pump. Those cast seamed type connectors are not safe above 250 psi or so. You can get a steel seamless elbow for just a few dollars and make it much safer. Cast is fine on "return to tank" part of the system, but not the pressure side.
The reason the fluid gets hot is because it must go through a tiny orifice which increases friction thus generating heat so to reduce heat you could very easily add a hydraulic cooler which would reduce the fluid temperature thus lengthening the hydraulic pump life. Good job explaining it though! Easy to understand!
Me and Jenny..we were like peas and carrots 😉 Good explanation thanks for that. Was tinkering with a threaded adjuster on mine. No idea what I’ve done to it as nothing seems to have changed. Assumed it would have altered the pressure therefore the speed of the ram and power applied however no noticeable difference🤷♂️
Thanks HOSS-IT-IS, Video has helped answer some of my questions. I have the Northstar 30 ton splitter which I purchased in 2007 and has worked flawlessly until last fall when the filter seperated. I replaced the filter and have used it for several hours since and today it seperated again. What would be causing this? Also, when I removed filter a spring fell out of the filter holder. I am guessing this is some sort of pressure relief. Suggestions as to what to due?????
Hey thanks for the video. I just replaced a pump on a 27 ton Troy built log splitter and I get very slow to nothing moving on the ram. I replaced the pump because of low performance on harder wood. My thought was the pump was failing to go into stage two pressure. Me thinks my problem is air in the line. Documents on the splitter claim it is self bleeding. How would you approach this issue? Thanks.
There is a lot of difference in speed depending on if its 11 gallon a minute pump or a 16 gallon a minute pump and what size cylinder you have on your log splitter.
I'd put the filter in-between the tank and the pump so the fluid gets filtered. Before it runs threw the pump. And put a magnet in bottom of tank to collect any metal shavings🤘
The reason most people put the filter after the spool valve is there is good pressure to push all hydraulic oil through the filter. It's easier to push hydraulic fluid through the filter than to suck it through filter.
I was considering rebuilding my Huskee 22 ton log splitter, the engine (Bstratton 6.5hp 190cc) has essentially fallen apart after 20yrs (still runs tho) but the Hydraulics are fine and while its getting a little rusted i still think the frame has some life in it.. now, I think it may be a 9 or 11 gpm pump on the splitter. Do you think it feasible to put a 13gpm or 15gpm pump on it to increase the rate of cylinder movement? If so would I have to considerably up my HP in the engine? It doesn't seem to notice with the little 190cc when its seriously strained against a huge log so the engine already on it seems like it'd handle more power demand from a bigger pump.. maybe going up to a 7.5hp 223cc and 15gpm is a reasonable consideration?
Hey hoss you still splitting wood? I'm building a wood splitter and I got to set up just like yours but now I want to come off the pump and give myself some hydraulic pressure to another ram to lift up a gate and drop it down bring the rounds to the splitter from the side of my truck can you explain how I do that with the hydraulic pressure line split it if I put in a valve in each line they have them screw in valves okay take care and thanks for the video.
Excellent explanation. Question, I have a 17 ton Northstar splitter where the ram came out after splitting a log and it's now stuck put. I was told to check the couplers where the engine shaft connect to the pump to make sure it's not slipping....what else could it be?
I can se it spinning, the guy said it might be slipping enough (if the set screws were lose) to not be spinning the pump fast enough,....but after just running it, it certainly looks like its spinning at a good clip. This is why I am so "stumped" :)...it does not make sense why its not sendind the ram back to home? could a hose be clogged, or the little screen filted be clogged?
James Fox the Lovejoy couplings have key way in them so I don't think they're slipping. can you change the hose from the front of the cylinder to the back and the back to the front and see if it'll work
Very helpful video...thank you for sharing. Im in the process of trying to design and build my own log splitter. Welding and fabricating is no problem but the hydrolics is somthing I needed help with. Someone gave me a brand new five horse honda motor and Im hoping to use that. How do you go about sizing the pump and the cylinder?
I bought a returned 30 ton log splitter from a box store. I finally got it running, and on softer or smaller logs, it works great. On a larger piece of oak, and some hedge (orange osage), it knocked real loud as it slowly begins the split, once it pushes into the log the knocking eases up. Any thoughts on this?
Sounds like you have a two-stage pump and on the first stage when it starts into the wood is where you are getting your knocking from. Then the second stage starts it will be a little slower. If I were to guess the knocking is going to be in your pump. Not sure exactly which pump you have. You may be able to looking on the internet and see if anyone else is having the same problem. Hope this helps.
I'm impressed with you're video ty. ? I'm building a splitter I have a 5/8 " shaft on pump do you have a clue what the GPM are 3/4 threads there are no markings on pump the hyd cylinder is 4" by 26" w/ 1.5 shaft running 16 HP engine w/ 30 GPM double throw valve center neutral and any thing else you can tell me .like working pressure, is it a 20 ton? Or what should I put a air vent w/ filter cap on tank I'm using old 10 gal beer keg .ty
HI a Friend just gave me an old log splitter that was made from a cannibalized fork lift. I had to replace the motor and the old motor turned the pump clock wise and the motor I have now turns counter. Will the pump work either way or will it only work clock wise? I don't want to burn it up. I have been stumped ever since most folk I know don't know. Thanks for the vid. I wondered what all that stuff did.
Nice video... I own an Ariens 22 ton log splitter and noticed I have hydraulic fluid leaking out of the Denton valve from underneath. My question is how do you tighten that connection? Are there any o-rings or anything you think I might have to replace in order to fix the problem? Thank you so much for your help.
Great explanation. Is there a formula to go by? As far as PSI, hoses and pumps I'm clueless. I'm just beginning my splitter. I bought a 12 HP Briggs and Stratton electric start riding mower. Thanks for your video.
This is the pump www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321055_200321055 This is the cylinder www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200511882_200511882 you can look at other stores this is just to let you see what kind of parts you will need some pumps can't be turn vertical must be turn horizontal hope this helps I don't know if the links will work or not. If not let me know. here is another cylinder daltonhydraulic.com/?slug=product_info.php&cPath=28_123&products_id=385 This is the detent valve www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_472_472
We're there options on the pump as to fluid movement? Now I am wondering if the 1 inch fitting, hoses through out the unit would it create less heat? This it a great vid! Do you have a parts list, cost sheet ? What do you think about a prince valve? What are my options ? Thank you
Explained very good. Now I have a problem that you may be able to help with, As long as the splitter is not in use (neutral position) not is wrong but when I pull the control lever to split the wood the fluid pores out of the reservoir tank and the splitter does not move. Is the control valve bad or the cylinder bad?
Hi. I need to replace the gasket on the hydraulic pump. The seal is shot. It's a 78 lickity splitter. Do you know any video that can help me or can you help me plz? We can't afford to have it fixed, they charge almost as much to buy it brand new plus 2 week waiting list throws our ranch, household, and business out of commission which we cannot afford!! Plz help. I've been looking online for a while and can't seem to find what we need. Thank you.
You don't want any restriction to the inlet of your pump, keep the filter on the tank return. I would actually recommend a larger hose for the inlet as well, your pump will thank you.
I have a older John Deer splitter 5 givin to me and the lines need to be flushed. A small reservoir for a tank. The only way I can think to flush the system is to fill up with hydraulic then run it, and drain it again from the tank with a pump. Then refill it again. Is there an easier way?
You can take the return line off put in a old bucket. Then fill tank Run pump keep filling tank while pump is running until you run 5 to 10 gallons through it then you should have all new fluid through hoses and cylinder. You will have to be using the lever to run the cylinder all the way forward and all the way back. This will be the most expensive way to do it. hope this helps I would use the cheapest hydraulic fluid you can find.
I have a cross brand valve that detent will not kick off once it returns all way to cylinder looks similar to that valve I have tried either loosing or tighten the detent release valve and still nothing
Is it possible to put a hydraulic oil cooler on a wood splitter...home made...inexspensive...how much pressure is on the return line. My neighbor insists on running my wood splitter in the middle of a hot summer day ...4 gallons of oil every time he blows the return line off...
hi how would you bleed the system, I have a leak in my splitter it is weeping from the back. I want to try and replace the seals myself but not to sure how to remove the pressure from the system to take apart.
Thank you for explaining how the system works. Do you have any suggestions on where I can purchase the main components. Such as the pump, valve and cylinder. Thank you.
I have question you. I have 13 HP Honda motor from a pressure washer. I want to take the pump off and mount the engine for a splitter. How do I size the engine and hydraulic pump to the shaft? I may have to weld an adaptor plate and extension to the engine but I am not sure where to start. Thanks for the video. I learned a lot
You can get a adaptor at TSC I would put a 16 gal pump on the 13Hp motor.You can get adaptor off ebay you will need a Hydraulic Couplings here is what it looks like www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/category_hydraulics+hydraulic-couplings+hydraulic-half-couplings here the pump www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321055_200321055 . here is the adaptor you need to know the bolt pattern they have 4" or 5" hope this helps.
You can get a adaptor at TSC I would put a 16 gal pump on the 13Hp motor.You can get adaptor off ebay you will need a Hydraulic Couplings here is what it looks like www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/category_hydraulics+hydraulic-couplings+hydraulic-half-couplings here the pump www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321055_200321055 . here is the adaptor you need to know the bolt pattern they have 4" or 5" hope this helps. Show lesswww.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200337126_200337126
Have a North Star with no other fluid/hydraulic filter other than a screen inside on the supply side nipple, I believe. Should I consider adding one [filter] as this is only a 22 ton, home use? And, how many hours can be used on the hydraulic fluid before changing it? Thanks for a super explanation on hydraulic op.
I am trying to work out how you calculate the right size pump for a given size motor ...I have a 6 horse power ...also are all gallons in America 3.785 litre or are they just your petrol gallons you put in your cars ...or gas as you call em...most places around the world use imperial gallons which are 4.546 litre or litres
www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321055_200321055 www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321051_200321051 This is how you can tell what pump you need the first one needs a Minimum 8 HP or larger gas engine. The second one needs Minimum HP: 5. Hope this helps
Hi Ihave log splitter It will split small pieces but no pressure to split big ones. It it seeping a little from the cylinder and some from the detent valve. Any ideas how to fix it. Thanks
I have an old home made log splitter. I put a new motor on it and it split wood good for 20 minutes. Now the piston cylinder moves both directions, but isn't strong enough to split wood. Any thoughts what could be problem? pump? valve?
Thank you for this video. Question, my hydraulic fluid is constantly cream colored. It must be from condensation. It is expensive to keep changing. Any ideas. Respectfully Dallas
dallast21 I had a backhoe do the same thing small leak was making a little whining sound and was making the hydraulic fluid foamy I held a rag over all the joints until I found the joint that was leaking air into the system but fluid would not leak out. when you use the rag make sure it is wet
Hi.from NZ.type in your specs on this website for tonage,there is another calculator for cycle speeds too www.baumhydraulics.com/calculators/cyl_calc.htmBore size would be the most determining factor for tonage and shaft size for return speed.ive just bought a cheap ram that is 3.5 inch bore with 2.5 shaft so its not the gruntist but will have a quick return speed running a 22 GPM pump.
Egidio Borg It's the inside diameter of the cylinder that determines how many tons of force it can push. The shaft size determines how fast it will retract.
Would it be better to have the filter before the pump, or in the return where you have it? Seems like the oil should be filtered before it enters the pump/valves. Thanks again for this explanation, definitely helps a newbie like me!!
It's best to have the filter on the return line.The hydraulic fluid gets to run through the filter many of times during a wood splitting session.If it were between the pump and the tank you would have all the pressure from the fluid in the tank trying to come out during filter changes some times I just change the filter. Plus if the filter get a hole knocked in it you won't lose all your hydraulic fluid.
Buna ziua vreau sa fac si eu un spărgător am un motor de 7, 5 hp nou daca sunteți amabil puteți să îmi spuneți și mie ce pompa sa cumpar, distribuitor,cuplaj, cilindru etc.sunt din Romania si nimeni nu vrea sa imi spuna la sigur mulțumesc.
I have an old log splitter Mighty MAC. When I pull the handle back to retract the piston hydaulic oil shoots out the back where the bleeder valve is which is basically a cap with holes in it. Any ideas what is happening?
That's not a bleeder valve. That's the detent or valve kickout. It's got 'o' rings in it that go bad. You can set the pressure you want the valve to kick back out to neutral with it. Before you tear it down or start taking it off or apart, back off the lock nut and run the middle all the way in so you know how many turns to back it off after you rebuild it. Then if it doesn't hold, adjust the middle part in until it does that snug up the lock nut.
Well I would think your return line could or should be mounted higher on the tank because it would potentially cool the hydraulic fluid some anyway. Am I wrong ? It doesn’t matter. I would go so far as think you could even come in to the very top of the tank. I’m just guessing, thanks for explaining it. 👍✌️🇺🇸
My splitter was low on fluid and appeared contaminated. I drained the system as well as I could removed hoses and drained them. Replaced fluid and filter. It seemed fine for a few days. I attempted to split some rounds today. It pressed into the wood and stopped. The ram goes out and in fine. But it won't split wood. I tried a small limb about 4 inches That I would not have split to test it. same results. Briggs engine 8.75 runs fine. DR 22 ton.
I have an old homemade pulley system. The pump went bad. Going to replace all except dentin valve with a system like yours. Between my pump and the dentin valve, there is another valve in my system that increases and decreases the pressure by turning a screw in or out. It also has a return line to the tank. Do I need this valve? I was told that if I omit it, the system would blow up. Thanks!
You can also make a cooler out of copper or steel pipe BUT it needs to be the same inside diameter as your hoses or larger, probably 1/2 inch. Don't need any restrictions in the return side. It'll just blow the hose off.
Con Ogden I changed the hyd oil and worked the cylinder by hand to get all the oil out. NOW how do I bleed the system of air so I can get to work? PLEASE!!!!!! Thanx in advance Con
I have taken some of the hoses off the valve assembling and all seems to be be flowing (with the engine off of course). It looks like the front of the cylinder is not getting enough fluid / pressure to send the ram back home. The guy at northstar said the level assemble pretty much never faisl, it may slow down and not split wood, but that would only mean there is not enough pressure somewhere. Any ideas? I stumped and getting pissed I can't figure it out.
James Fox the reason I ask is your pump may not be putting out high pressure may just be putting out a low pressure. the best way to find out what your pressures are is to have a gauge. hope this helps
James Fox the reason I ask is your pump may not be putting out high pressure may just be putting out a low pressure. the best way to find out what your pressures are is to have a gauge. hope this helps
I do not. I was splitting wood and all was fine, 50 logs in and the ram went forward fast, faster than normal, and now just stays forward. I took hooked up a strap to it and forced it back which was tough. Started it up and the Ram went sailing forward again....so I would assume there is pressure (going forward). for the life of me I can not understand why it wont go back...could there be a fluid block not allowing fluid back to the tank? Could the engine shaft be slipping not allowing "enough" pressure to bring it back
James Fox, I read both of your posts about your problem. It is clear from your description that there is something wrong with your directional control valve. There is nothing else that could be wrong that would leave you with the symptoms you describe, especially the fact that the ram immediately went to the full extended position after you had manually retracted it and restarted the engine. Check to make sure that the lever handle is properly connected to the spool. The spool is the metal plunger that moves in and out of the body of the valve. That spool is what controls the direction of the flow of hydraulic fluid. My guess from your description is that there's something wrong internally though. Contact me if you need any further help.
I have a question about my logsplitter.....kind of silly because Im just throwing it out there but I was wondering why my splitter seems to work harder on the "return" cycle under no load as opposed to the splitter not struggling at all under full load with quite large rounds being processed....if you or anyone has any suggestions please feel free to let me know. Im just baffled as to what could be wrong. It is well built and in very good condition but the return stroke has me confused. Thx , and great video by the way !
Darrin Holstine Did you replace it with the same size hose. They have different size it's like a garden hose you can have a half inch or 5/8 inch garden hose still have the same ends
i let someone borrow my log splitter. they added hydro fluid when it didnt need it. it was spewing fluid out of the relief hole but they kept splitting wood until the ram would no longer split the wood but it would go forward and back still, just no pressure on the wood. i realize it can be a lot of things but could this cause pump damage?
hoss-it-is--thanks i just wasnt sure where to start. i drained and changed the fluid and cycled it. i will look at the pump. thanks for the response and nice job on the vid!
@@fishman80 I'm experiencing that exact problem now. Somebody overfilled the reservoir and now I don't have much power behind the piston. Thing is a foamy mess inside and I'm currently draining it off. Did you get yours to come out of it once you got the proper level restored with new fluid?
Very good. One guy who builds log splitters in a factory in CA told me to drop a magnet or two in the hydraulic fluid tank. It will catch any shavings or metal that may be floating around, Thanks for the video. Ken from Indiana.
You did an excellent job of describing the hydraulic circuit and components of a typical log splitter system. There is one clarification I would suggest to clear up a misconception that some have.
You described the oil flow from the pump to the control valve and back to the tank when the valve is in the center neutral system as being "high pressure oil". These systems are open center (meaning the in and out ports of the valve are "open" to each other when the spool is centered) and therefore no resistance to the flow is present. This in turn means there will be very minimal pressure in the system, as it should be. Open center systems should only see high pressures when there is actual work being done (i.e. the initial split of the wood, which is what requires the high forces).
Pressure is the enemy to fixed displacement hydraulic systems when it is present without productive work being done. That is what causes excessive heat and wear. A well designed circuit will have test port locations where a pressure gauge can be installed to check pressure status at various operating conditions and valve positions for troubleshooting.
It is important to understand that pumps do not pump "pressure", they pump volume, a fixed volume in the case of these types of pumps. Pressure is the result of a RESISTANCE in the circuit to that flow. The greater the resistance to the flow rate, the greater the system pressure.
Well said @byronmill, thank you.
👍
Now that's what I call a well explained video.
FANTASTIC!
Nice job explaining and keeping the explantion simple. Thanks!!
Yep. Great basic description of the hydraulic flow from all parts of the system.
Finally a simple explanation on how it works. Thank you! I have a log lift on mine but it's manual lift which I want to change it to a hydraulic lift but I had no clue how the current set up works. Got it!
A very good explanation of how hydraulics on a log splitter works. Thanks
Hello. Doug in Niagara Falls NY. Great video. Just getting started with firewood. Thank you.
I'm building a splitter now on my channel, this was very helpful. Making me think I may need a bigger tank. Didn't know the got that hot.
Very impressed, my log splitting still consists of me and my arms slamming a log splitting axe and I would love to be able to make something like this. Thanks for the explanation on how it all works for those of us not so familiar with using pressure tubing and the ram.
great video!
Excellent description! Finally someone who explains the circuit simple and complete.
I have one question: how do you deal with the engine temperature as this kind of motors are refrigereted by air and if not may overheat? Thanks a lot. Great job!
Great explanation, is there any way the pressure going to the ram can be regulated on the spool valve?
Nice tutorial. One safety issue I notice is that looks like a cast iron elbow (plumbing grade) on the outlet of the pump. Those cast seamed type connectors are not safe above 250 psi or so. You can get a steel seamless elbow for just a few dollars and make it much safer. Cast is fine on "return to tank" part of the system, but not the pressure side.
How would I bleed that system. I changed my filter and hydraulic oil but have hardly any pressure on my piston now. Thank You
Excellent explanation, ..... Bravo !
good job explaining the haudraulics was a lot of help to me. thanks for your time.
Thanks for your comment.
Your best is just right. Thank you
The reason the fluid gets hot is because it must go through a tiny orifice which increases friction thus generating heat so to reduce heat you could very easily add a hydraulic cooler which would reduce the fluid temperature thus lengthening the hydraulic pump life. Good job explaining it though! Easy to understand!
This was very helpful, thanks! Appreciate you taking the time to make this.
Great explanation ❗️
Thanks for posting this video ❗️
Stick a good magnet on the bottom of the return side. That way if any metal does happen to get through your filter it can catch it
If at all possible I like to put it inside the tank. That way if your magnet gets knocked off you don't lose all the metal shavings at once.
Dobry den super stroj přesně takový potřebuji vyrobyt...poradite prosím? Nějaké plány? Ulevilo by se zadum 😢 děkuji michal
Good info. I have a Ariens 27 ton & have damaged the cylinder. Can I replace with a cheaper cylinder? If so , what perameters need to be met ? Thanks.
I used a Dalton cylinder
Very good video. It answered a lot of questions for me. Thanks!
Me and Jenny..we were like peas and carrots 😉 Good explanation thanks for that. Was tinkering with a threaded adjuster on mine. No idea what I’ve done to it as nothing seems to have changed. Assumed it would have altered the pressure therefore the speed of the ram and power applied however no noticeable difference🤷♂️
Would you know when I open the valve wide open on mine it kills the 7hp motor ?
Thanks HOSS-IT-IS, Video has helped answer some of my questions. I have the Northstar 30 ton splitter which I purchased in 2007 and has worked flawlessly until last fall when the filter seperated. I replaced the filter and have used it for several hours since and today it seperated again. What would be causing this? Also, when I removed filter a spring fell out of the filter holder. I am guessing this is some sort of pressure relief. Suggestions as to what to due?????
Hey thanks for the video. I just replaced a pump on a 27 ton Troy built log splitter and I get very slow to nothing moving on the ram. I replaced the pump because of low performance on harder wood. My thought was the pump was failing to go into stage two pressure. Me thinks my problem is air in the line. Documents on the splitter claim it is self bleeding. How would you approach this issue? Thanks.
Great simple to understand video. well done.
What is responsible for the rate of speed the piston moves forwards and back ? Thank you for the video and your knowledge
There is a lot of difference in speed depending on if its 11 gallon a minute pump or a 16 gallon a minute pump and what size cylinder you have on your log splitter.
Brilliant, Thanks for sharing!
Great job in explaining it
Are the hoses that attach to the reservoir low pressure hoses? Or are they all high pressure?
Hello I would like to know how to bleed one of these cuz I'm getting ready to change my fluid
I'd put the filter in-between the tank and the pump so the fluid gets filtered. Before it runs threw the pump. And put a magnet in bottom of tank to collect any metal shavings🤘
The reason most people put the filter after the spool valve is there is good pressure to push all hydraulic oil through the filter. It's easier to push hydraulic fluid through the filter than to suck it through filter.
Is that a hydraulic gear pump you got there ?
I was considering rebuilding my Huskee 22 ton log splitter, the engine (Bstratton 6.5hp 190cc) has essentially fallen apart after 20yrs (still runs tho) but the Hydraulics are fine and while its getting a little rusted i still think the frame has some life in it.. now, I think it may be a 9 or 11 gpm pump on the splitter. Do you think it feasible to put a 13gpm or 15gpm pump on it to increase the rate of cylinder movement? If so would I have to considerably up my HP in the engine? It doesn't seem to notice with the little 190cc when its seriously strained against a huge log so the engine already on it seems like it'd handle more power demand from a bigger pump.. maybe going up to a 7.5hp 223cc and 15gpm is a reasonable consideration?
What you're saying is correct the only thing. Is make sure you get a 2 stage pump.
Most helpful. Thanks...🇨🇦
nice man thanks fr explaining it! just bought my first one and wanted t0 know how it works f0r when it inevitably breaks
It’s just that simple and having a radiator and electric fan is the best thing you can do to hyd systems period, bigger the filter the better also 😊😊
Great job!
Hey hoss you still splitting wood? I'm building a wood splitter and I got to set up just like yours but now I want to come off the pump and give myself some hydraulic pressure to another ram to lift up a gate and drop it down bring the rounds to the splitter from the side of my truck can you explain how I do that with the hydraulic pressure line split it if I put in a valve in each line they have them screw in valves okay take care and thanks for the video.
Sorry I missed your question but you can just put two dent valves in line with each other and control one left and one does the splitting
Excellent explanation. Question, I have a 17 ton Northstar splitter where the ram came out after splitting a log and it's now stuck put. I was told to check the couplers where the engine shaft connect to the pump to make sure it's not slipping....what else could it be?
James Fox if you keep trying to push the lever forward to split does it make a groaning sound. if it does then your pump is still pumping.
James Fox there is a love joy coupling that couple your engine to your pump you should be able to see it turning
yes, I can also see the hoses shake and move as if they are under pressure....
I can se it spinning, the guy said it might be slipping enough (if the set screws were lose) to not be spinning the pump fast enough,....but after just running it, it certainly looks like its spinning at a good clip. This is why I am so "stumped" :)...it does not make sense why its not sendind the ram back to home? could a hose be clogged, or the little screen filted be clogged?
James Fox the Lovejoy couplings have key way in them so I don't think they're slipping. can you change the hose from the front of the cylinder to the back and the back to the front and see if it'll work
Very helpful video...thank you for sharing. Im in the process of trying to design and build my own log splitter. Welding and fabricating is no problem but the hydrolics is somthing I needed help with. Someone gave me a brand new five horse honda motor and Im hoping to use that. How do you go about sizing the pump and the cylinder?
On a 5 HP motor I would not put no more than a 11 GPM pump.That is what is on this log splitter.
I bought a returned 30 ton log splitter from a box store. I finally got it running, and on softer or smaller logs, it works great. On a larger piece of oak, and some hedge (orange osage), it knocked real loud as it slowly begins the split, once it pushes into the log the knocking eases up. Any thoughts on this?
Can you tell if it's the motor or if it's the hydraulic pump
@@hossitis gas engine runs fine - no surging or bogging down.
Sounds like you have a two-stage pump and on the first stage when it starts into the wood is where you are getting your knocking from. Then the second stage starts it will be a little slower. If I were to guess the knocking is going to be in your pump. Not sure exactly which pump you have. You may be able to looking on the internet and see if anyone else is having the same problem. Hope this helps.
I'm impressed with you're video ty. ? I'm building a splitter I have a 5/8 " shaft on pump do you have a clue what the GPM are 3/4 threads there are no markings on pump the hyd cylinder is 4" by 26" w/ 1.5 shaft running 16 HP engine w/ 30 GPM double throw valve center neutral and any thing else you can tell me .like working pressure, is it a 20 ton? Or what should I put a air vent w/ filter cap on tank I'm using old 10 gal beer keg .ty
I would add a big magnet on the bottom of the tank or a magnetic drain plug to hold any metal.
HI a Friend just gave me an old log splitter that was made from a cannibalized fork lift.
I had to replace the motor and the old motor turned the pump clock wise and the motor I have now turns counter. Will the pump work either way or will it only work clock wise? I don't want to burn it up. I have been stumped ever since most folk I know don't know.
Thanks for the vid. I wondered what all that stuff did.
All the pumps I have used have a direction. if you look it up you may find the spec
How do you bleed the air out of the cylinder
Just move the cylinder backwards and forwards and it will Purge the air.
How often do you change the hydraulic fluid and change the filters? Any videos on that?
I still haven't changed my oil and this is 6 7 8 years later
Hi, when the oil returns back to the tank is the inlet below or about the oil line, cheers.
Egidio Borg
Below the oil level bye 2 inches
HOSS-IT-IS great, one other thing I am using a old 5 kilo gas tank which is around 5 litres of oil,
would this be enough oil to run the splitter.
i would try and use at least 2 1/2 gallons. You may get by with 5 litres
Nice video... I own an Ariens 22 ton log splitter and noticed I have hydraulic fluid leaking out of the Denton valve from underneath. My question is how do you tighten that connection? Are there any o-rings or anything you think I might have to replace in order to fix the problem? Thank you so much for your help.
Hard to say without seeing the valve
That surprising every hydraulics place I've asked about pumps for my splitter say 8gpm is maximum for my 5.5 hp Honda thanks for reply
11 works fine with a 5 horse Briggs.
This can run on 5 hp www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321051_200321051
Great explanation. Is there a formula to go by? As far as PSI, hoses and pumps I'm clueless. I'm just beginning my splitter. I bought a 12 HP Briggs and Stratton electric start riding mower. Thanks for your video.
This is the pump www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321055_200321055
This is the cylinder www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200511882_200511882
you can look at other stores this is just to let you see what kind of parts you will need some pumps can't be turn vertical must be turn horizontal hope this helps
I don't know if the links will work or not. If not let me know.
here is another cylinder daltonhydraulic.com/?slug=product_info.php&cPath=28_123&products_id=385
This is the detent valve www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_472_472
We're there options on the pump as to fluid movement? Now I am wondering if the 1 inch fitting, hoses through out the unit would it create less heat? This it a great vid! Do you have a parts list, cost sheet ? What do you think about a prince valve? What are my options ? Thank you
Explained very good. Now I have a problem that you may be able to help with, As long as the splitter is not in use (neutral position) not is wrong but when I pull the control lever to split the wood the fluid pores out of the reservoir tank and the splitter does not move. Is the control valve bad or the cylinder bad?
I would thank control valve.
Thank-you for the explanation. I have one thought, why not have an oil cooler and fan?
T'airn'KA I just added a little more hydraulic fluid and as big of tank as I have it acts as a oil cooler.
Hi. I need to replace the gasket on the hydraulic pump. The seal is shot. It's a 78 lickity splitter. Do you know any video that can help me or can you help me plz? We can't afford to have it fixed, they charge almost as much to buy it brand new plus 2 week waiting list throws our ranch, household, and business out of commission which we cannot afford!! Plz help. I've been looking online for a while and can't seem to find what we need. Thank you.
Not sure exactly what pump you have. there's videos on RUclips of two stage single stage pumps. you may find a video on someone else's Channel.
I should have it hooked up right inlet from pump is hooked to in side out to out if that's right
I just checked it and I'm backwards have the pump side to valve is on outside lol
Can you put the filter on the line going into the pump instead of the return line back to the tank?
If your tank is clean it's just as good to put the filter on either side of the tank.I put my filter were i did because it was the best place for me.
You did an awesome job, Thanks for the video!!!
You don't want any restriction to the inlet of your pump, keep the filter on the tank return. I would actually recommend a larger hose for the inlet as well, your pump will thank you.
If your hydraulic valve control capacity is less than your pump is that when you install a dump valve ?
Thanks. Perfect for me.
I have a older John Deer splitter 5 givin to me and the lines need to be flushed. A small reservoir for a tank. The only way I can think to flush the system is to fill up with hydraulic then run it, and drain it again from the tank with a pump. Then refill it again. Is there an easier way?
You can take the return line off put in a old bucket. Then fill tank Run pump keep filling tank while pump is running until you run 5 to 10 gallons through it then you should have all new fluid through hoses and cylinder. You will have to be using the lever to run the cylinder all the way forward and all the way back. This will be the most expensive way to do it. hope this helps I would use the cheapest hydraulic fluid you can find.
I have a cross brand valve that detent will not kick off once it returns all way to cylinder looks similar to that valve I have tried either loosing or tighten the detent release valve and still nothing
Is it possible to put a hydraulic oil cooler on a wood splitter...home made...inexspensive...how much pressure is on the return line. My neighbor insists on running my wood splitter in the middle of a hot summer day ...4 gallons of oil every time he blows the return line off...
What size engine and pump is on this splitter?
Adam Marshall 5 horsepower and 11 gallons pump
hi how would you bleed the system, I have a leak in my splitter it is weeping from the back. I want to try and replace the seals myself but not to sure how to remove the pressure from the system to take apart.
Sarfraz Munir you may be able to find a RUclips video of replacing a seal just like yours. I'm not sure what kind of splitter you have.
nice one bud
How do i bleed it so it stops pissing all over the floor when it cools down in 10 degree weather?
Thank you for explaining how the system works. Do you have any suggestions on where I can purchase the main components. Such as the pump, valve and cylinder. Thank you.
harbour freight , if you are in the states.......Princess Auto, if you are in Canada!
I have question you. I have 13 HP Honda motor from a pressure washer. I want to take the pump off and mount the engine for a splitter. How do I size the engine and hydraulic pump to the shaft? I may have to weld an adaptor plate and extension to the engine but I am not sure where to start.
Thanks for the video. I learned a lot
You can get a adaptor at TSC I would put a 16 gal pump on the 13Hp motor.You can get adaptor off ebay you will need a Hydraulic Couplings here is what it looks like www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/category_hydraulics+hydraulic-couplings+hydraulic-half-couplings here the pump www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321055_200321055 . here is the adaptor you need to know the bolt pattern they have 4" or 5" hope this helps.
Wow, thanks for the quick response
You can get a adaptor at TSC I would put a 16 gal pump on the 13Hp motor.You can get adaptor off ebay you will need a Hydraulic Couplings here is what it looks like www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/category_hydraulics+hydraulic-couplings+hydraulic-half-couplings here the pump www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321055_200321055 . here is the adaptor you need to know the bolt pattern they have 4" or 5" hope this helps.
Show lesswww.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200337126_200337126
Hi, does the gas motor has a limit RPM for the hydraulic pump?
pump can do 3,600 Rotations Per Minute.
Have a North Star with no other fluid/hydraulic filter other than a screen inside on the supply side nipple, I believe. Should I consider adding one [filter] as this is only a 22 ton, home use? And, how many hours can be used on the hydraulic fluid before changing it? Thanks for a super explanation on hydraulic op.
Sorry I missed your question. but I still haven't changed the fluid in mind
I am trying to work out how you calculate the right size pump for a given size motor ...I have a 6 horse power ...also are all gallons in America 3.785 litre or are they just your petrol gallons you put in your cars ...or gas as you call em...most places around the world use imperial gallons which are 4.546 litre or litres
www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321055_200321055
www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321051_200321051
This is how you can tell what pump you need the first one needs a Minimum 8 HP or larger gas engine.
The second one needs Minimum HP: 5.
Hope this helps
Good job, nice setup! ;)
Why you not installed hydraulic relief valve for your safety and why you not install pressure guage? If you want to work on high pressure
Hi Ihave log splitter It will split small pieces but no pressure to split big ones. It it seeping a little from the cylinder and some from the detent valve. Any ideas how to fix it. Thanks
Sorry I missed your question. Sounds like you may have seals on the Piston inside the splitter going bad.
I have an old home made log splitter. I put a new motor on it and it split wood good for 20 minutes. Now the piston cylinder moves both directions, but isn't strong enough to split wood. Any thoughts what could be problem? pump? valve?
Sorry I missed your question. Sounds like the seals on the Piston inside it went bad
Thank you for this video. Question, my hydraulic fluid is constantly cream colored. It must be from condensation. It is expensive to keep changing. Any ideas. Respectfully Dallas
dallast21 sounds like you may have a leak in your return hose and it's drawing air
OK, thank you very much. I'll let you know how I make out.
dallast21 I had a backhoe do the same thing small leak was making a little whining sound and was making the hydraulic fluid foamy I held a rag over all the joints until I found the joint that was leaking air into the system but fluid would not leak out. when you use the rag make sure it is wet
Air will go where fluid (water, oil, fuel etc.) won't.
I have a problem with the hydraulic it goes very slow I changed the oil but still goes slow what can be the problem Nick
Hi, it's me again from down under, how do you determine the tonnage , is it the size of the hydraulic ram
Or the hydraulic pump, cheers.
Hi.from NZ.type in your specs on this website for tonage,there is another calculator for cycle speeds too www.baumhydraulics.com/calculators/cyl_calc.htmBore size would be the most determining factor for tonage and shaft size for return speed.ive just bought a cheap ram that is 3.5 inch bore with 2.5 shaft so its not the gruntist but will have a quick return speed running a 22 GPM pump.
Egidio Borg It's the inside diameter of the cylinder that determines how many tons of force it can push. The shaft size determines how fast it will retract.
Egidio Borg UI
To determine the pressure of the hydraulic cylinder you multiply the area of the cylinder piston (3.14 x radius) by the pressure of the pump.
Would it be better to have the filter before the pump, or in the return where you have it? Seems like the oil should be filtered before it enters the pump/valves. Thanks again for this explanation, definitely helps a newbie like me!!
It's best to have the filter on the return line.The hydraulic fluid gets to run through the filter many of times during a wood splitting session.If it were between the pump and the tank you would have all the pressure from the fluid in the tank trying to come out during filter changes some times I just change the filter. Plus if the filter get a hole knocked in it you won't lose all your hydraulic fluid.
Buna ziua vreau sa fac si eu un spărgător am un motor de 7, 5 hp nou daca sunteți amabil puteți să îmi spuneți și mie ce pompa sa cumpar, distribuitor,cuplaj, cilindru etc.sunt din Romania si nimeni nu vrea sa imi spuna la sigur mulțumesc.
I have an old log splitter Mighty MAC. When I pull the handle back to retract the piston hydaulic oil shoots out the back where the bleeder valve is which is basically a cap with holes in it. Any ideas what is happening?
That's not a bleeder valve. That's the detent or valve kickout. It's got 'o' rings in it that go bad. You can set the pressure you want the valve to kick back out to neutral with it. Before you tear it down or start taking it off or apart, back off the lock nut and run the middle all the way in so you know how many turns to back it off after you rebuild it. Then if it doesn't hold, adjust the middle part in until it does that snug up the lock nut.
Why wouldnt you have your return going into the very top of the tank?
Well I would think your return line could or should be mounted higher on the tank because it would potentially cool the hydraulic fluid some anyway. Am I wrong ? It doesn’t matter. I would go so far as think you could even come in to the very top of the tank. I’m just guessing, thanks for explaining it. 👍✌️🇺🇸
great video - how much hydraulic fluid does a log splitter take? Is there a fill line within the tank?
Usually 2/3 inches from top because oil will explode when heated
My splitter was low on fluid and appeared contaminated. I drained the system as well as I could removed hoses and drained them. Replaced fluid and filter. It seemed fine for a few days. I attempted to split some rounds today. It pressed into the wood and stopped. The ram goes out and in fine. But it won't split wood. I tried a small limb about 4 inches That I would not have split to test it. same results. Briggs engine 8.75 runs fine. DR 22 ton.
Did you have any metal shavings?
Hydraulic pumps do not like to run out of hydraulic fluid. It can cause cavitation which can make little small pitts.
thank you
Question my cylinder wont return do you think i need to add oil?
Check your fluids level, check your return line and filter for clogged.
is your pump a single or a dual stage
+Matt “DEMO” L www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200321051_200321051
2 stage
I have an old homemade pulley system. The pump went bad. Going to replace all except dentin valve with a system like yours. Between my pump and the dentin valve, there is another valve in my system that increases and decreases the pressure by turning a screw in or out. It also has a return line to the tank. Do I need this valve? I was told that if I omit it, the system would blow up. Thanks!
august vlasak the Dentin valve has a pressure relief valve in it
hey I got a old splitter which way I push the lever on the control piston goes one way ant hints
may need to rebuild valve may have bad o rings
You can also make a cooler out of copper or steel pipe BUT it needs to be the same inside diameter as your hoses or larger, probably 1/2 inch. Don't need any restrictions in the return side. It'll just blow the hose off.
Con Ogden
I changed the hyd oil and worked the cylinder by hand to get all the oil out.
NOW how do I bleed the system of air so I can get to work? PLEASE!!!!!!
Thanx in advance Con
Just start it up and use. The air will work its way out
I have taken some of the hoses off the valve assembling and all seems to be be flowing (with the engine off of course). It looks like the front of the cylinder is not getting enough fluid / pressure to send the ram back home. The guy at northstar said the level assemble pretty much never faisl, it may slow down and not split wood, but that would only mean there is not enough pressure somewhere. Any ideas? I stumped and getting pissed I can't figure it out.
James Fox Do you have a pressure gauge on your wood splitter
James Fox the reason I ask is your pump may not be putting out high pressure may just be putting out a low pressure. the best way to find out what your pressures are is to have a gauge. hope this helps
James Fox the reason I ask is your pump may not be putting out high pressure may just be putting out a low pressure. the best way to find out what your pressures are is to have a gauge. hope this helps
I do not. I was splitting wood and all was fine, 50 logs in and the ram went forward fast, faster than normal, and now just stays forward. I took hooked up a strap to it and forced it back which was tough. Started it up and the Ram went sailing forward again....so I would assume there is pressure (going forward). for the life of me I can not understand why it wont go back...could there be a fluid block not allowing fluid back to the tank? Could the engine shaft be slipping not allowing "enough" pressure to bring it back
James Fox, I read both of your posts about your problem. It is clear from your description that there is something wrong with your directional control valve. There is nothing else that could be wrong that would leave you with the symptoms you describe, especially the fact that the ram immediately went to the full extended position after you had manually retracted it and restarted the engine.
Check to make sure that the lever handle is properly connected to the spool. The spool is the metal plunger that moves in and out of the body of the valve. That spool is what controls the direction of the flow of hydraulic fluid. My guess from your description is that there's something wrong internally though. Contact me if you need any further help.
I have a question about my logsplitter.....kind of silly because Im just throwing it out there but I was wondering why my splitter seems to work harder on the "return" cycle under no load as opposed to the splitter not struggling at all under full load with quite large rounds being processed....if you or anyone has any suggestions please feel free to let me know. Im just baffled as to what could be wrong. It is well built and in very good condition but the return stroke has me confused. Thx , and great video by the way !
This could be caused by a ( bottle neck ) effect on dump side run 1in return hose with curved elbow.
my dad has a splitter that need a new hose...hydronic. he replaced it now the ram runs really slow in both directions. any ideas
Darrin Holstine Did you replace it with the same size hose. They have different size it's like a garden hose you can have a half inch or 5/8 inch garden hose still have the same ends
Darrin Holstine may also want to check the filter if your wood splitter has a filter
i let someone borrow my log splitter. they added hydro fluid when it didnt need it. it was spewing fluid out of the relief hole but they kept splitting wood until the ram would no longer split the wood but it would go forward and back still, just no pressure on the wood.
i realize it can be a lot of things but could this cause pump damage?
May have caused the hydraulic oil to foam. Witch may have damaged your pump.
hoss-it-is--thanks i just wasnt sure where to start. i drained and changed the fluid and cycled it. i will look at the pump. thanks for the response and nice job on the vid!
@@fishman80 I'm experiencing that exact problem now. Somebody overfilled the reservoir and now I don't have much power behind the piston. Thing is a foamy mess inside and I'm currently draining it off. Did you get yours to come out of it once you got the proper level restored with new fluid?
@@bullscmym i drained it all out and let it sit a day. refilled it and eventually came back out and works
@@fishman80 Good deal! Thanks for getting back to me
Thanks