Build a hydraulic wood splitter.

[tla100]

Had 6.5 hp engine with pump, $100 into it.
4"x24" new cylinder, $219
Hubs, wheels/tires, around $150
trailer jack and 2" ball hitch, $50
Fittings/hoses, around $100
Prince 2 way Dual Detent Valve, $100
Hydraulic Filter and mount, $25
6 gallon tank, free air compressor tank
hydraulic fluid, $50+ had to buy 10 gallons, didn't use all of it
misc mounts/bolts/pins/welding wire/gas/grinding wheels/paint/grease, probably $100
I-beam and steel were all "free"

But, I can always say, I built it!

So for $894 give or take.

 

[tla100]

Oh, would I do it again or buy new? Well, my next splitter is going to be bigger and better.

If you don't have cylinder, I would probably buy the one from Northern Tool with Wedge and carriage and log stripper all together from $400-500 depending on cylinder. Fabbing the wedge, carriage, stripper is a lot of labor, grinding, welding, and swearing. I am on 2nd wedge, carriage design and it is good to go now. Other than that, everything else worked with no problems. I did abuse the crap out of it when it broke.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200326306_200326306

 

[fields_mj]

Or buy one used for half price or less and spend your time and $$ modifying it the way you want.