Weak log splitter

[ltrr1971]

I have a 6 year old Cub Cadet 33 ton splitter that about a year ago started to get weaker and would get stuck in wood which it never did before. It seems to have only about half the original power. Changed the filter and oil didn't help. Couldn't see any damaged seals in the cylinder. Cleaned the pressure relief valve. I am stumped, anyone have any advice?

 

[JeffHK454]

Ya gotta start with a gauge in the system ..

 

[ltrr1971]

I was trying to get a direction before going to the gauge. Thanks.

 

[JeffHK454]

I was trying to get a direction before going to the gauge. Thanks.

A gauge is the next step..I'd bet your system psi. is low because of a improperly working relief.

 

[ltrr1971]

Is that something that can be seen by looking at it?

 

[JeffHK454]

Other than obvious broken parts you need to look for galling or scratches on any metal to metal contact areas.

 

[ltrr1971]

I guess I will have to try and get access to a gauge.

 

[CaseyForrest]

Could be the seals in the pump going out.

You need to put a gauge in the system and see if you are building pressure.

 

[aokpops]

Most likely the pump . Check an see if for some reason the pump is not turning or a kink in the lines . Went from a 11 gallon pump , that was acting like the one you have . to a 16 gallon . That was a big change I never want to use a 11 gallon again . Now is the time for a bigger pump , but realize might need a bigger engine to . The 30 ton machine you have nothing less than a 22 gallon pump . If it breaks fix it better than new .

 

[olympyk_999]

my bet would be cylinder...all those rebranded MTD's use cheap cylinders, likely just need new seals, but a gauge would make it easy to tell...as i believe those splitters are hard plumbed into the cylinder ports, if it has hoses for the cylinder then you can fully extend the cylinder then take the retract hose off the valve put into a bucket, then run the splitter and move valve into extend position, if the seals are bad it will blow by and fluid will come out the hose, if theyre good then the fluid should just go through the relief valve as designed.

but as all others said its alot easier to diagnose the problem with a gauge

 

[blades]

Just for grins, carefully check the the motor to pump coupler, more than one has failed due to slipped or sheared keys/loose set screws or the spyder fingers material destructing.