The Complete Guide to 3 Point Log Splitters

 

Log splitters are essential tools for anyone who burns wood for heat or enjoys working with lumber. They make quick work of splitting logs into manageable pieces for your stove or fireplace. 3 point log splitters are a popular style of log splitter that offer several benefits over other types.

In this complete guide, we will cover everything you need to know about 3 point log splitters including how they work, top brands, key features to look for, and tips for safe operation.

What is a 3 Point Log Splitter?

A 3 point log splitter gets its name from the 3 hydraulic arms that attach it to the back of a tractor. The splitter itself consists of a beam, wedge, and cylinder. Logs are placed on the beam against the wedge. The cylinder then provides hydraulic force to drive the wedge through the log, splitting it along the grain.

The key advantage of a 3 point log splitter is mobility. Since it connects to the back of a tractor using the standard 3 point hitch, you can easily move the log splitter around your property to where the logs are located. This saves time and energy compared to moving logs to a dedicated splitting station. The splitter is powered by the tractor's hydraulic system rather than needing its own engine.

How Does a 3 Point Log Splitter Work?

A 3 point log splitter works by using hydraulic force to drive a wedge through a log. Here is an overview of the process:

• The log splitter connects to the back of a tractor using the 3 point hitch and PTO shaft. The PTO shaft transfers power from the tractor to run the log splitter's hydraulic pump.
• Logs are placed on the beam against the wedge in either a horizontal or vertical orientation.
• The operator uses control valves on the tractor or log splitter to engage the hydraulic cylinder.
• Hydraulic fluid under high pressure is sent into the cylinder, pushing the piston outward.
• The outward motion of the piston drives the wedge through the log. The angled wedge splits the wood along the grain.
• Once split, the pieces fall off the sides of the beam. The cylinder then retracts the wedge for the next log.
• Splintered ends can be trimmed using a chainsaw or the log splitter's optional 4-way wedge.
• The process repeats to efficiently split logs into the desired size and shape.

Top Brands of 3 Point Log Splitters

Several manufacturers make excellent 3 point log splitters. Here are some of the top brands to consider:

SpeeCo

SpeeCo is one of the most trusted names in log splitters. Their 3 point models feature heavy-duty construction and fast cycle times. Popular models include the SpeeCo 3PT, SpeeCo 3PT Deluxe, and SpeeCo 3PT Maverick.

CountyLine

CountyLine from Tractor Supply offers affordable 3 point log splitters in 25, 35 and 40 ton capacities. They come with standard features like a hydraulic log stripper and solid steel construction.

Iron & Oak

Iron & Oak focuses on heavy-duty equipment built to last generations. Their 3 point log splitter has premium components and can handle logs up to 25 inches long.

Timber Tuff

Timber Tuff splitters are known for reliability and power. Their TT-3P model can provide up to 39 tons of splitting force powered by tractors up to 80 HP.

Swisher

Swisher offers versatile and rugged attachments for your tractor. Their 3 point log splitter has a commercial-grade design with a 20 second cycle time.

Huskee

Huskee splitters provide versatility at an affordable price point. Their 3PT models come in 25 to 35 ton designs that are powered via the tractor's hydraulic system.

Key Features to Look For

There are several important features to consider when selecting a 3 point log splitter:

• Ton rating - The tonnage rating indicates the amount of splitting force the cylinder can generate. Look for at least 25 tons for general home use and 35+ tons for larger logs.
• Wedge design - A tapered wedge that's 4-5 inches tall helps penetrate tough logs. Large wedges may get stuck less often.
• Cylinder size - A cylinder with at least a 4 inch bore provides fast cycle times. Larger cylinders improve productivity.
• Beam length - Longer beams allow you to split a variety of log lengths. Aim for at least 24 inches.
• PTO shaft - It should have adequate length to reach your tractor's PTO output shaft. Look for shear bolts for safety.
• Log stripper - Helps prevent stuck logs by stripping them away after splitting. This is a key timesaving feature.
• 4-way wedge - Allows splitting logs into 4 pieces instead of 2. Helpful for kindling or odd shaped logs.
• Auto-return valve - Automatically retracts the wedge after each split for faster operation.

Tips for Safe and Efficient Operation

Follow these tips when using a 3 point log splitter for optimal safety and productivity:

• Carefully review all safety instructions in the operator's manual. Pay close attention to warnings.
• Make sure the log splitter is hitched securely using the tractor's sway chains for stability.
• Keep hands and feet away from wedge during operation. Use tongs to handle split wood.
• Always wear safety gear like eye protection, steel-toe boots, and gloves.
• Position logs squarely against the wedge for clean splits. Avoid angled positions.
• Let the machine do the work. Don't try to force it through gnarly sections.
• Clean the beam regularly to prevent debris buildup. Lubricate parts as recommended.
• Maintenance according to the manual's schedule. Inspect hoses, cylinders, and wedges.
• Adjust the height using the tractor's 3 point arm so you don't have to bend over.
• Turn tractor engine off and allow hydraulics to depressurize before disconnecting.

Conclusion

3 point log splitters are the ideal choice for anyone looking for an affordable and mobile wood splitting solution. Their ability to attach to a tractor's 3 point hitch provides versatility that can't be matched by standalone splitters. Key features to look for include ton rating, wedge design, cylinder size, log stripper, and 4-way wedge. Follow basic safety tips and your 3 point log splitter will provide reliable performance for years to come.