Coast Live Oak (Quercus Agrifolia) Janka scale?

[sbstern]

Hi - I live in northern California and we have a number of coast live oaks (quercus agrifolia) on our property. Does anyone know where to the Janka scale rating for these? I've searched extensively and a number of sites reference Southern Live Oak (quercus virginiana), but there doesn't seem to be any information about the Coast Live Oak.

The reason I'm trying to find out is because we need a new log splitter and are trying to size it. We had a 27-ton gas-powered hydraulic, but the engine gave out beyond repair and you can't get new gas engines in California. So we're looking at an electric splitter and trying to decide between hydraulic and kinetic (prefer kinetic because of the speed). Thanks!

 

[Blue Oaks]

Welcome, neighbor. I'm not familiar with the Janka Scale, but are you sure the engine is beyond repair? There's a lot of talented machinists out there. Also, another used gas engine could likely be made to work. In any event, I'm a firm believer in over-spec'ing anything that has to work hard, and the Southern Live Oak is probably in the same ball park as the Coast Live Oaks, but again I'm no expert.

 

[Breckinridge Elkins]

No idea on the Janka scale but I always remember live oak being a bitch to split.
Take a trip up to Reno and buy a new splitter. Buy a bunch of ammo while you are there.
edited for location

 

[SCMtnHaul]

I also live in the Santa Cruz mountains and a 24 ton splitter is plenty for live oak. At least I've never had an issue with 24 ton hydraulic--no idea about a kinetic but the SuperSplits do seem nice for an electric option.