Log splitter with Suspension

[ETpilot]

I have seen pictures of homemade log splitters with a spring suspension. All of the commercial models I have seen do not have any type of suspension. What is the advantage or disadvantage to a suspension system on a log splitter. I am starting a build after the new year. Just curious about this. Good to have or do without?

 

[SWI Don]

I believe some of the high end ones come with suspension. Wallenstein and Timberwolf have torsion suspensions on their commercial units. Timberwolf does not on their homeowner type units, ie TW-P1. It comes down to how much do you need to tow it. If you have a proper suspension on it, you can go like any other trailer. If not, then slower speed is probably prudent.

I personally take my splitter on 15 mile plus trips often so suspension is a must.

Don

 

[SWI Don]

Duplicated post

Don

 

[triptester]

Suspension allows for greater mobility. I have put suspension on all the splitters I have built because I don't know where they will end up. One has seen several 250 mile trips on the interstate.
If the splitter is going to stay close to home the added cost of suspension might not be justified.

 

[Guswhit]

I built mine out of the back 1/2 of a hay rack and used high flotation ag tires, no springs. I then went to my local bearing shop and got high speed bearings, because I had a feeling that the ones in it were not. I can sail 55 mph no problem and have been running it almost 20 years on this axle set up(although the rest of it has changed dramatically). The farthest I go is 16-17 miles to the FIL's other wise just 6-7 at the most.

I also forgot to mention I like the large ag floater tires especially when the ground is a little soft as it moves through and over the ground so much better.

 

[jags]

If a log lift is in consideration - it may change things if a suspension is used. Maybe an outrigger for stability?

 

[dave_dj1]

I have leaf spring suspension on my homemade splitter with log lift. I tow it 10-15 miles quite a bit and have no issues on the highway. As far as suspension and log lift, I have lifted some green Oak that was 29" across and 28" long with no problems. I do have 2 stabilizer legs on the front though. I think it comes down to a matter of preference. I am willing to bet that production units don't have suspensions due to cost issues.
dave

 

[triptester]

One thing to consider is that axle manufacturers derate thier axles, spindles, and bearings by 50% when used without suspension.
Suspension reduces the strain on all components from the tounge on back when the splitter is being towed.

 

[jthornton]

I used a Dodge K car rear axle for my splitter. Narrowed and added trailer springs. I have three jacks that I stabilize the splitter with as it is vertical only with a lift for bigger rounds.

JT

 

[Oliver1655]

I used a 7,000 lb rated mobile home axle with springs & 8 ply tires. I haul mine all over pulling a trailer behind it. It travels at 70 mph no problems.

I do not use any outriggers. I have a 2-1/2" square tube with a pair of no-flat wheel barrow tires which is hydraulically raised/lowered under the tongue for my jack stand. This gives me a 3 point contact with the ground counting the axle. I frequently hear it called the landing gear. My rear axle is wider than most splitters which gives it great stability while on the road & lifting logs.

 

[ETpilot]

Thanks for all the replies. Something else to think about. I can see where a suspension would be a good thing.

 

[cutforfun]

I put springs on mine to help ge the hght i wanted, rebuilding the ram now and should be ready to go. Working on a build thread

 

[ETpilot]

Yes having the right height is important. That is one thing I keep in mind. I will have to check out some springs and do some measuring. My thanks to you and JT for the pictures. I will look for your build thread when you post it.

 

[rancher2]

Just spend a little more money and buy a torsion axle. They sure ride nice. You won't be sorry you used one. Depending on how big and heavy the splitter will be brakes aren't a bad idea either.

 

[half]

Just spend a little more money and buy a torsion axle. They sure ride nice. You won't be sorry you used one. Depending on how big and heavy the splitter will be brakes aren't a bad idea either.

one I built a couple of years ago has 1 ton hubs and stubs and springs with hyd overide brakes it is on 15in wheels with 8in wide tread I fitted trailer jacks front and rear and a circular level at the front so you can get it level and stable with the jacks it is running a 2cyl lister diesel engine and a steering ram of an alas charmers loader. it tows like a dream at 60 mph