He Drives Log Spliter Into The Woods

He Drives Log Spliter Into The Woods WOODLOT EQUIPMENT Miscellaneous 23-2-44 Until a couple of years ago, Tom Boldebuck used a shop-built pull-type log splitter to split six cords of wood he burns during a typical heating season. It worked great but wasn't very maneuverable when pulled behind his Allis Chalmers WD. So the Seward, Neb., farmer decided to "self-propel" the splitter so he could drive it into the woods on its own. He bought an industrial sweeper from a factory for $55 and used the electric-start, 2-cyl. Wisconsin engine to power the splitter, which mounts on a Ford car axle and has a single steering wheel up front. The sweeper also provided three hydraulic pumps to drive the splitter and a hydraulic motor that powers a 4-speed transmission that drives the car axle. "I mounted the seat, gas tank and steering box on the left side, while the hydraulic pumps and engine were mounted on the right side. I modified the hood off the sweeper to cover the engine and pumps. I took the rear swivel drive wheel off the sweeper and mounted it on front of the splitter beam to steer. A green and yellow Deere-colored paint job completed the project. "I can tow it behind my pickup by putting the splitter into neutral. When I get to the woods I just unhook to drive up to big logs and split them on the spot. It draws a lot of attention whenever I take it out." Out-of-pocket expense was less than $250, including the sweeper and paint. Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Tom Boldebuck, 1777 322nd Rd., Seward, Neb. 68434-7842 (ph 402 535-2514).

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