Didier log splitter need help

[klasch]

Hi anyone.

Can anyone help me diagnose what may be the problem with my log splitter?

It is a Didier model HASA19M probably 25 or so years old. Used for years now will not develop
enough pressure to split. Ram travels both in extend and retract directions. Can tell that
pump is pushing hydraulic fluid by looking in tank as valve is worked.

Any ideas?

 

[blades]

Ton of this covered if you do a search.
Valve bad
Seals in ram bad
Pump worn not developing pressure
That's the basics.

 

[klasch]

Ton of this covered if you do a search.
Valve bad
Seals in ram bad
Pump worn not developing pressure
That's the basics.

Figure one of those items is bad...not sure how to tell which though.
You sound like you know what you are doing...any trick to tell which item is bad?

 

[Fifelaker]

Put a gauge in line. That will tell you a lot as it is hard to diagnose without one.

 

[Mike Van]

On my Didier it was the pump, just wear from over 30 years. It wasn't bad when you first fired it up, but as the oil got hotter, it got weaker. New pump, it's back to shearing knots off that won't split.

 

[triptester]

Most common problem has been piston seals in the cylinder. This can be checked in two ways; place a screw jack between wedge and push plate extend ram until it touches the jack with valve in nuetral try to force the ram back with the jack,if the ram moves the seals are probably bad. Or extend the ram all the way, shut off engine, remove the hose from the ram end of the cylinder. Protect yourself from possible fluid splash start engine and push valve to extend position if fluid comes out of the disconnected hose the seals are bad.

 

[klasch]

Thanks for your replies.

I will try the leak test described for the hyd cylinder

Plan though now is to take splitter to local hydraulic shop so I can get Hyd pressure gaged.
Shop tells me they can rebuild Hyd cylinder if needed.

However, does anyone know where a OE replacement pump can be purchased? Or,
will it be necessary to retro fit a replacement?

 

[Mike Van]

Northern Tool will have the pump, two stage 11 gpm splitter pump, 125.00 or so. Try to get an estimate before just dropping the splitter off at the hyd shop, some of the prices some charge are just plain scary.

 

[triptester]

Just about any 2-stage pump of the same gpm will fit.

 

[klasch]

My father bought this splitter.... Friends think I am crazy for using....haven't found his manual. Also,
have not found any literature on unit via internet.

Is 11gpm correct output per manual? What about pressure? Does anyone know what the relief valve is rated
for?

Thanks again.

 

[triptester]

If the engine is 5-5.5 hp the 11 gpm 2-stage pump is correct. Relief valves are usually rated for 3000 psi but factory set between 2250-2750 psi.

 

[ecwarren23]

Just converted my Didier splitter to a harbor freight 6.5 hp motor, what a difference

 

[jags]

Darn near anything you need covered for a Didier splitter:
http://www.arboristsite.com/community/threads/didier-splitters.111496/

 

[bski]

Most common problem has been piston seals in the cylinder. This can be checked in two ways; place a screw jack between wedge and push plate extend ram until it touches the jack with valve in nuetral try to force the ram back with the jack,if the ram moves the seals are probably bad. Or extend the ram all the way, shut off engine, remove the hose from the ram end of the cylinder. Protect yourself from possible fluid splash start engine and push valve to extend position if fluid comes out of the disconnected hose the seals are bad.

Thank you! I have been racking my brain trying to figure out why the splitter kept stalling once it made contact with the wood. I replaced the carb, and valve(valve was leaking) the cylinder did not have a leak, however once I did you test when I pushed the valve to extend after the ram was fully extended fluid poured out of the ram end! On my way to the hydraulic shop for a rebuild(can't seem to find replacement cylinders online)

 

[444Mark]

I have DIDIER log splitter I bought at a yard sale. I have been using for 2yrs. The directional control valve broke have no idea what valve I should replace it with and no manual . Can any one help with info.

 

[blades]

A standard log splitter valve from prince , Speeco , Northern Tools and other sources will work . Just pay attention the the in/out port markings on both valves so the routing is the same.

 

[444Mark]

Thanks for the information.