In message , Rob Morley
writes
In article , "justme"
says...

I'd like to make a log splitter myself, they are too expensive to buy.
So what I need is a frame with a steel plate at one end which the log
rests on, and an V shaped steel plate at the other end driven by an
hydraulic ram, 4 ton or more ought to do it.

But I know little to nothing about hydraulics. I need some help...

What do you suggest I get the ram off? (in a scrap yard) and how would
I then set it up to be mechanically pumped by the operator.
Instructions and ideas please.


Why not just use a big bottle jack? That way you don't have to worry
about the plumbing.

The old saying about getting warm twice when burning logs is very apt.
Particularly if you consider the number of *pumps* to move a bottle jack
several inches.

Log splitters you envisage are available commercially and intended to be
run off the external hydraulic service on tractors. (around 3000psi and
at least 15l/min)

There is also a screw version driven by the power take off (540r/m and
2/3rds tractor horse power)

You might find a redundant hydraulic power pack from some form of
manufacturing industry. The last one I saw was used to supply the
oscillating table motion on a grinding m/c.

Bear in mind that pump losses will heat up the oil so you need a fair
sized sump. You will need a double acting ram. The rod needs to be sized
for bending loads.

In the absence of Elm, most firewood splits easily. I have 5 tractors
with suitable hydraulics and still use an axe to split logs.

try www.fuelwood.co.uk

regards

--
Tim Lamb