A log splitter uses hydraulically power-driven moving wedges to split wood logs. The pressure generated by the engine is used to perform the function of splitting wood logs. The splitter is connected with your tractor’s hydraulic system which in turn provides the required power. The power can be transferred to the splitter in the following two ways:
- Power directly getting transferred from hydraulic system of the tractor to the splitter
- The tractor’s PTO i.e. power take-off provides power to a separate hydraulic pump that is operating the splitter
For a safe operation, it is required that the log splitter is correctly mounted and attached to the hydraulic system of the tractor. Both these ways require a little effort and know-how at the user’s end. Please read through this article and understand how to hook up hydraulic log splitter to tractor in detail.
Direct Power Transfer from Tractor’s hydraulic system to the splitter
- The foremost step is to connect the log splitter with the 3-point hitch or the drawbar of the tractor.
- Then carefully remove the protective caps of the hydraulic couplers. Do not forget to check any kind of foreign residue like dirt or dust etc on the couplers. If present, it may interfere between the fittings and cause power transfer issues.
- Identify the couplers on the hydraulic hoses of your log splitter and push them directly into the hydraulic receptacles of your tractor. Make sure that the hose of the log splitter gets connected with extend receptacle of the tractor and the return hose connects with the return receptacle.
- Ensure they are locked in the place. Double-check to avoid a loose connection.
- Voila. It is done.
Power take-off provides power to the hydraulic pump of the splitter
- Start by connecting the log splitter with the tractor. There are two ways you can do this. Place the hitch pin through the drawbar of the tractor and the hitch of the log splitter. Otherwise directly connect the splitter with pins through the 3-point hitch of your tractor.
- Find the PTO shaft of the splitter and connect it with the PTO of the tractor. Make sure that you align the grooves or splines of the splitter shaft with your tractor’s stub shaft housing. Then, carefully slide the shaft into the housing.
- Check the locking mechanism of the stub shaft to make sure it is locked in place. In case the locking mechanism is not present, use a security pen to ensure the same.
- Go and start your tractor. Then, engage the power take-off of your tractor so that it provides the required power to the log splitter’s hydraulic system.
- You can then operate the splitter using its control panel.
Useful Tips for Safe Operation
We would also like you to go through these useful tips while you are going to start hooking up the splitter with your tractor.
- Before you start, refer to the user manual of your tractor or in case it is not available, you can get in touch with your tractor dealer. You must know the safety information and other instructions about how you can properly connect the log splitter to the hydraulics system of your tractor. There are different models and variations available in the market for hydraulic connections on tractors and hence it becomes even essential before you start hooking up the log splitter to your tractor. It is your responsibility that you have this information handy.
- It is advised that your tractor be turned off and you have engaged the parking brake before you start connecting the log splitter with your tractor.
- There are high chances that a loose or improperly connected log splitter dislodges at some stage in the transportation or operation. This can result in serious injury to anyone whether the operator or the bystanders. Ensure that your log splitter is properly hooked up and double-check that the hitch pins are completely engaged before you drive your tractor or start the operation.
- Ensure that all the fittings are tight before you start the operation and apply pressure. The hydraulic system has high fluid pressures and temperatures. In case of a loose-fitting, fluid might escape through the system and can cause a serious burn or puncture on the skin. This may result in wounds causing infections, blood poisoning, amputation, or other disabilities. In case of such an incident, do not forget to see a doctor.
Conclusion
Connecting a log splitter to the tractor is not rocket science and all it requires at one’s end is to be a little aware, apply right and tight connections, and be aware of the safety tips. Next time, when you start attaching your log splitter to the tractor, make use of the information provided here on how to hook up hydraulic log splitter to tractor.
