Thought I'd take a couple picks of firewood from this Sunday. We were using a REN MFG 24hp PTO power unit to power the Hakki Pilke 1x37 processor. Did this cord of 22in wood in about 55 minutes.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20170409_074954.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1491789631)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20170409_075010.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1491789667)
Sun is shining, pile is ready for wood time!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20170409_075037.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1491789653)
Another angle of the processing area
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20170409_075024.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1491789688)
Log lift and log deck area
Here is a short video of us working up some wood on Sunday
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VR4RkhH9Fn0&t=4s
Still at it! Making firewood is a never ending process.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20170612_090803~1.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1497318492)
Deck reloaded with about 3 cord of wood. Waiting for my next "day off" to process
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20170612_090828.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1497318551)
Did a little trading for some pine & hemlock. First cord of 18in heading to a camp ground.
Looks like a nice set up for processing wood. Yes firewood making is a never ending process. It has been hot here in eastern Ne and that seems like it is when we have time to make firewood. Between framing and a real job in town summer seems when I have time to make firewood. We burn about 15 cord a year in our Garn. Crops are in spraying is done for a while it is dry were the wood is so it is time to make firewood. Be careful and have a great summer.
Hedgerow,
We've had a real interesting late spring and early summer! We were in a drought heading into winter but mother nature got us all caught up this spring. My wife's family are dairy farmers and they are WAY behind on crop work because of all the rain.
We burn about 3 to 5 cord a year in our old woodstove. I've got 2 or 3 helpers and they burn another 10ish cord amongst them. Last year (second full year with the processor) we did about 85 total cord, year before was 120. I was really running around (lots of delivery's) the year we did 120 but we also had a couple mobile processing jobs that helped add a bunch of cords quick. We're in the processor of building an intake conveyor for the processor and then adapting a live deck. That will help me be more efficient labor wise. The way we are set up now, the processor is most efficient with 3 people. One person running the machine, one raking the load down in the trailer, helping with re-splits, and clearing chaff, and one person helping keep the unit fed - rolling logs on the landing and helping guide them onto the log life and in the short (factory) intake conveyor.
Hakki Pilke makes a 6 way axe for that model. No more resplits! 8)
The 1x37 is pretty bulletproof!
Chubby,
I've got the six way wedge, we don't use it much. If I'm in the right wood it's great, but if I'm in smaller wood then it makes the splits too small! Or if I'm in knotty wood, it puts a ton of stress on the hydro's.
The 1x37 is pretty bulletproof! I've done plenty of work to the unit since I've had it, but really for what it does, I'd consider it mostly maintenance! For the price of one of these units, and the amount of wood it puts out I'm pretty darn happy. Don't get me wrong, I'd love one of the big boy processors, just not the note to buy it!
It's been a couple years since I started this thread. We're still plugging along making big logs into little pieces! We did just short of 100 cord last year, probably 80 - 85% of it on the little processor. I've been hoping to add a live deck onto my little processor, heck I've got the deck, but something always comes up or funds dry up. Here is a few of us processing a few weeks ago.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20190505_091409.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1558816619)
The Honda motor on my PTO unit bent a valve. Upon further inspection, it's pretty well wore out. My buddy brought his new Kubota over and we ran the processor with that. We hooked my tractor to a borrowed 12ft dump trailer to deliver a cord to a neighbor. It was real nice to have 2 trailers to load into instead of doing a cord and waiting on delivery
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20190505_091441.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1558816618)
I'm pretty sure we processed 3 cord of wood that day, delivered 1, and had the processor cleaned up (we make plenty of sawdust and splints) in 3 hrs. We call that a good day!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20190505_091434.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1558816619)
The brow was getting a little low by the end of the day. I pre-sort logs when they are delivered. Anything too big we keep off to the side and work up with chainsaws and an hydraulic splitter.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20190331_075355.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1554033552)
I was hoping that I had a picture of the brow I made to work with the splitter. It is very basic, just a real heavy wood table that is the same height as the splitter, we can pile the real big pieces on it with the tractor and roll them on the splitter. No need for heavy lifting. An improved discharge table / grate is in the future for the 4ft splitter, but like most things it's not a priority and keeps getting put to the back burner!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20180826_082434.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1543078289)
This was last fall, my wife's Uncle's truck. I need to either get a taller conveyor, or stick to shorter trucks!
That's about it, got to try and get ready for the next day of processing, gonna try and get a new motor swapped onto my PTO unit tonight once I get home from my real job ;D ;D
I like it! I STILL haven't pulled the trigger on a processor...I guess I'm waiting for the planets to align or something😊
Nice set up
Barbender, you let me know once those planets align, that may be the day I buy a lotto ticket!!!
Bruno, thanks, it's not the biggest, the best, or the most productive, but it's what I got and what I could afford at the time! Heck, now I couldn't afford this setup!
I'm looking into them
It's part of my new plan I have going.
I don't want to run it from the tractor
What does a unit like this cost?
Bruno,
I don't like running the processor off my tractor, it's way more useful doing other things, and putting ours on it with the processor is an expensive waste. That being said, sometimes it happens!
I paid around 2k, about 3 years ago for the PTO Unit. It's pretty simple, and a great idea. Other than the Honda giving up on it a few weeks back it's pretty much been nickle and dime maintenance stuff to keep it going. Your more than welcome to swing on by and check it out! I just finished instIlling the new 22hp Predator motor this am. Testing it on a cord later today. 22 of the finest horse's China had to offer ;D
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20190527_110632~0.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1558974423)
Just don't over fill the oil go by the line on the dip stick
Not the amount in the book
The Honda GX670 on my 14-12 is getting long in the tooth. I've been eyeing that same Predator engine as a replacement. Or get hooked up with the three phase power that's now available to us and make everything electric. It would be nice to just flip a switch :)
Looks like a productive zone. Loving the good attitude - keep at it - and keep enjoying what you do!
GRANITEstateMP
Looking forward to see how that Predator holds up. I have several 6.5 HP on pumps, air compressors and a couple 13 Hp Predator's so far I have had zero issues with any of them. I break them in on regular 30 W oil then switch to 20-50W Mobil one.
Bruno,
For the first time in a long time, I actually followed instructions on the engine start up ;D. I filled up to the line, ran it a bit, checked it. All was good, so we did our first cord at WOT! Gotta break it in RIGHT! It'll get it's first oil change after this weekends firewood is done. The best part, I crossed the oil filter part number, AND, it fits Toyota Corolla's. That works well for me, since I work at a Toyota dealer as a parts guy!
Corley5,
I was back and forth as to what to do. My wallet made the final decision, yet to see if I'll regret it or not! I'm pretty sure the Ole' Honda was down on power for a while (I did maintenance, no rebuilds), I might have been able to prevent loosing the cylinder if I'd dug further into it, but I'll be honest, time and other projects would have come first and we'd end up at the same result! I've seen a bunch of video's on my little processor running off of electric, sounds pretty...QUIET! I like the fact that I'm still pretty mobile, but starting to do less and less mobile processing. I'd rather stay at my place and plug away.
jmur1,
It ain't always easy, but we try and stay with the half full bottle
hedgerow,
I'm hoping it holds up well. I'm not betting on it, just hoping! I've heard more good than bad about these little buggers, fingers are crossed!
I'm gonna probably stick with the 10W-30, unless I see any consumption. 10W-30 kinda stinks, we don't use that at work, so I actually need to buy it vs, collecting partial empties from the Techs!
Predator update - I didn't do as I said and change the oil after the first cord. We're 10 or 12 cord in. Oil looks good, and level has stayed good. I've got a guy coming over tomorrow (my off day) to bang out a couple cord of 22in stuff. I really am gonna try and do a oil change after that!
The motor has run well, can't knock it so far.
Update on my Update:
The Predator WILL NOT USE a Corolla oil filter! Even if you cross check it on 2 different oil filter charts, screw it on til tight... O-ring doesn't seal, trust me on this one :(. It looks like the boss at the bottom of the filter pipe is a bit different. Ho-hum. I did 1 oil and filter change, a power flush, and reinstalled the old filter! Good thing I make plenty of wood chips, the flush was messy >:(
I had that happen with the first filter I got.
Wix and carqwest have filters that work
Bruno,
Good to know I'm not the only one! I got a WIX 51394 on it's way. I'll give it the "eye-crometer" look over when they drop it off, and if it meets that gauge, I'll try and put it on tonight, or maybe tomorrow...
Wix filter didn't work either, it almost did, but threads bottomed out. Good times. I ended up using a Toyota 90915-YZZG2. That filter fit a lot of Toyota V6's over the years. It also fits my Cub Cadet lawn mower ;D and I have a bunch of them on the shelf at work. This is definitely one of the draw backs to using a knock off motor vs. a real Honda. If it were a Honda, I could have had a Honda filter from the (car) dealer and been done with it (the Honda filter has a different thread pitch vs. what is needed on the Predator - 3/4 x 16).
It was pretty hot today, but we did a cord of 16in off the processor, then a cord of 18in stuff that was either too big or too ugly for the processor. The cheap Harbor Freight tent made it a little easier to try and stay cool. It did make it a bit tougher for the guy on the tractor loading the brow (me)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20190707_103219.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1562550743)
Predator update - She is still going strong! Just finished cord 71 on the year, not sure how many of those came off the processor or this motor, BUT, I know it's about time for it's second oil change. Oil is still looking good, but hours wise time for some maintenance
Good to here it's working out. I have several of the smaller ones on different equipment around the farm and have had zero issues with them. One of these days I will need to replace one of my larger motors and I will give the one you bought a try. I need to get some wood processed before grain harvest starts.
hedgerow,
I'm trying to get my order list done before it's time to chop corn, it's gonna be close! i haven't been much help around the in-laws farm this year with all the projects I got going, it'd be nice to help them with that. I'm sure my order list will have grown once corn is done!
End of the season updates:
With any luck, we'll be able to process wood this weekend. We're currently at 107 cord for the year, I'd love to hit 110, but weather, time, and helpers will determine that! We are trying to work up all the larger diameter stuff that the processor won't eat, so it's a nice change of pace.
The Predator has held up good, BUT, it's NO Honda, and its pretty cold blooded (as one of you guys told me they tend to be). Once started it's fine, getting there sometimes requires a warm can of carb clean and a short snort... wouldn't be so bad, but you got to remove an engine cover to get to the air cleaner ;),
Did you cover the fan opening with cardboard ?
Mine started well in the cold.
Bruno,
No, I didnt, maybe I will try next time? It's a cold blooded girl!
No real gripes other than that. It's not a Honda, but it does the job and it was 1/3 the price, so if it needs a short of carb clean when it's below freezing, then I dont mind too much ;D
We got 2.5 more cord done yesterday. I will have to do a final tally, but we should be right around 110 cord for the year. That's not too bad for what we got and when we do it!
2020 Updates:
All the machines are still up and running. Getting ready to do another LOF on the Pred motor this week. We are hoping to add a second (used) dump trailer to the wood operation this week or next. We're at 45 cord for the year so far, the second trailer will help keep production going when I got help around!
Also added a Blue Diamond skid steer splitter for the big ugly pieces that pop up. We haven't run but a few splits through that yet, trying to knock the easy stuff out first.
Hey GSMP, glad to see you're still at it. Sometimes people get discouraged after a year or two and quit doing firewood. It's a lot of work so you really have to enjoy it to stay with it.
All the best to you, and keep us posted.
Cutter
Cutter,
Still plugging away. Doing wood the way we do, keeps me in cheap heat, and gets me some side money too. I haven't advertised on a few years, mostly word of mouth from long time customers. Every year I loose a few and gain a few. A fella that's hacking up a wood lot down the road from me for 3 customers last year, he was $30 a cord cheaper than me. He's still cutting the same lot this year, but I got all 3 customers back, seems his cheaper cords didn't stack out to a full load....
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on May 19, 2020, 05:25:19 AM
Cutter,
seems his cheaper cords didn't stack out to a full load....
That is a real problem for people buying firewood. Many guys selling firewood don't give a full cord. And a lot of firewood sold as seasoned wood is half green.
If you sell firewood that is dry at a fair price and a full measure, you will always have customers.
Been pretty busy around here lately! We got 4 cord done and delivered last Sunday, then it was maint. time. All the equipment got grease, oil changes, the tractor got new coolant fuel filters, and 2 new hydraulic filters.
I did up a cord midweek, to make sure everything was shipshape, then me and a buddy did 2 more cords Friday, and it was HOT! Reloaded the log deck Day and we got 4 more done and delivered today. We did 2 cord of 18in off the processor, then we got a chance to try out our new toy, I mean tool ;D Me and a buddy went in halves on a BlueDiamond splitter that's mounts to a skidsteer. We needed something rugged to handle the oversized and ugly rounds that were too big for the processor.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20200531_083835.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1590969057)
We are still trying to figure out the best way to be most productive with it, but after two cord of 20in cordwood, my back is still happy! We cut all the rounds 20in, then the skid steer would grad a round in the splitter and as it was traveling (5 - 10 yards) he'd start to split it. Most of these splits went into the splitter a final time, BUT, they were a much more manageable size. We hope to take a lot of the wood we've struggled with in the past and make it to quicker, easier, and safer.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20200531_094743.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1590969055)
Splitting a round and dropping it near the brow
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20200531_094746.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1590969055)
Brow, to splitter, and into the dump trailer.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20200531_094723.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1590969057)
This is the view from the back of the dump trailer... Right before I was told to get back to work :D
Oh yeah, forgot to mention , we're pretty darn happy with the Blue Diamond. We've named it Neil Diamond, and since this is Red Sox country, I was singing some "Sweet Caroline" while we worked! Don't worry, it was loud enough so nobody could hear my horrid singing.
I like that this thread has been brought back a few times for the updates. A good ongoing story need not disappear after it's initial posting.
Question on the oil filter: You mentioned that it's the same as on your Cub Cadet mower. Assuming that your Cub has either a Kohler, Kawi, or Briggs engine, and the preditor uses one of those filters?
Spike,
Thanks for the reply. I know my Cubby doesn't have the
Kari engine, wish it did!
The Predator started farting and popping today. It's not fuel, I'm using the same fuel, from same jug in other machines. I may start with plugs, but I'm not optimistic...
We did get 3 more cord done, but the Pres wasn't super happy :(
Yup, check the plugs first. See if one looks different from the other. Could be ignition. Could also be valves. Those Preditor and other similar engines are a little like the knock off chainsaws; gotta cross your fingers and hope you get a good one.
Problem with Preditor is a lack of support here in the US. Customer has one on a splitter and it needed a starter cover or something. Called HF and they said, "we don't sell parts for those engines" Gave me the name of a go kart company in Indiana that "might be able to help". Wow, that's helpful. But for $99, just buy another motor I guess.
Ocasionally these engines will accept Kohler or Honda parts from the engines that "inspired" them, such as carbs or mufflers. Some gaskets. We see some Champion splitters and Gen sets out there but we won't take them or any of these things in for repair because we don't want to chase parts for products that don't have a traditional parts supplier in place. We're lucky that we have so much work that we can be selective on what we work on, but I know it's frustrating for people when these things break. Hope yours is something simple!
Drain and collect to inspect (if possible) the gas from the float bowl just incase there is a little bit of water in there. It is a quick, cheep and easy check to eliminate a possible problem.
Another thing to check is the low oil shutdown if equipped as well as the ignition switch.
Thanks guys! I ordered some NGK plugs today, they'll replace the "Torch" brand that it came with ;)and
We are finally getting some much needed rain, so I may not be able to tackle it Tues either, but I plan on doing plugs, and now I'll drain the bowls too. Might as well fire a fuel filter at it also.
I was leary about the Pres for parts / quality reasons when I bought it, but $750 for 22ish hp was worth rolling the dice. I feel like it's gonna be a valve train issue, but like I said, we'll try the easy stuff first and then reassess.
Torch brand spark plugs...I had not heard of that brand before😂
Torch plugs are Chinese and come standard on a lot of those odd motors. Often see them on name brand mowers using "private labeled" engines. Really nothing wrong with them, but like you said, a good place to start. There's usually an NGK equivalent which is a good thing. Hardly anyone stocks Torch plugs.
Hilltop's suggestion to check for water in the carb is a good one, and it's another simple step to take. I know you mentioned that other equipment is running fine on fuel from the same jug. But water in a gas tank doesn't always originate in the fuel can. Sometimes it'll find it's way into the individual machine.
NGK plugs are all I use in air cooled engines. They seem to last the best. I sure would do a compression test while I had the plugs out. That will give you a idea if you have a valve or valve train issue.
Hedgerow,
I really don't want to do a comp test, or pull a valve cover! Then it'll really be a problem, right now, it potentially is just bad gas and plugs... :-\
is there a strainer/filter on the fuel line in the tank like some honda's?
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on June 30, 2020, 05:36:07 PM
Hedgerow,
I really don't want to do a comp test, or pull a valve cover! Then it'll really be a problem, right now, it potentially is just bad gas and plugs... :-\
I hope that it's bad gas or plugs but it only take a couple minutes while you have the plugs out to check the compression. Then you know if you need to pull the valve covers or not. I have a Kohler 23 on a mower that just turned 1000 hours and has only had the plugs replaced once.
The 2nd Honda GX670 on my Block Buster had three sets of plugs over it's 4,700 hour life span. The 5.5 hp Honda on the elevator is living with a Torch plug. The NGK went dead last winter after a huge number of hours. I didn't have a new one in stock but have a Chonda in the shed. The Chonda doesn't have a plug in it now ;) :) but I've got a couple new NGKs in the tool box.
I did pull the valve covers, all looked good. Waiting on my buddy to swing by after work with comp gauge. Going to install the fuel filter, new plugs after that. Checked air filter (banged out a bit of saw dust) and carbs when I pulled the fuel filter. Should know better in a couple hours! Better check my plug gaps before I forget, again ;D
well, that was fun :( We did a compression check, twice, just to be sure. One cylinder was 80psi, the other was 140psi. So much for bad fuel :'(
I put the new filters and plugs in, runs ok, but I never got it all warmed up either, just made sure it runs again.
I think it was a bit over a year ago when we mounted that motor. Kinda bummed it only made it that long, I was hoping for two years! I think we'll run it til it pop's, not much sense putting good money into a Chonda, I may but another, or revisit Honda? Pretty sure the Honda's were double the price and you still had to add the muffler... Gonna have to ponder that a bit more... Or maybe get creative with warranty ???
Probably too late now if your buddy is gone with the compression tester but usually you will get better readings with a warmed up engine, sometimes you will get completely different readings after the engine has warmed up.
My brother use to drive a truck weekly to Toronto for years hauling seafood up and often produce back so he would have to get the trailer washed out before returning, the pressure washer guys tried the knockoff Honda and said they lasted about 1/3 as long as the real ones so the switched back as the knockoff ones died. This would have been 10 years ago but I don't think things have changed much.
I was looking at a v twin Honda at the surplus centre a while back that seemed like a ok deal but between the exchange rate, shipping and customs broker fees it was more than I was willing to spend. there might still be some left.
Sorry that you ended up with one, but this is one of those motors that make the statistics what they are. The intended application and where these motors are going to live are things to consider before buying one. When measuring them with the premium Honda yardstick, they will always come up short. And in a commercial or high use application, the disappointment can arrive fairly soon.
Dealing with that disappointment via warranty could prove to be an even more frustrating experience. It's easy to write warranty in the catelog or on the box, but who is in place, and where, to provide warranty service? Even shops that are willing to work on these things are unlikely to be set up to process warranty claims on them. And there's no place to order parts. The 2 big aftermarket players in the industry, Rotary and Stens, don't support these engines, because it's a moving target. Too many sources of engines and the investment to support them all makes no business sense at all.
Didn't want this to end up being a lecture, but these pitfalls are real when buying these products. Unfortunately nobody ever talks about them until something breaks, and then the customer starts to feel very much alone when it becomes apparent that there's no support network in place to help him. Maintaining those networks that exist for the OEM engine brands is part of the cost of those engines.
I get that sometimes prices on these motors are so good that it can be worth the gamble. But just understand that it IS a gamble and be prepared that it might not work out in the end.
If you end up stuck with the engine. I would pull that valve cover on the head with the low compression and check the head bolt torque and the valve lash and if that's all good I would pull that head and take a look at the valves maybe it burning a exhaust valve and you could just replace that.
Thanks for the feedback. We did 3 more cord on it this am, popping and fartin away ::) It isn't horrible, but it's not great either. I started digging into a replacement Honda for the unit, looks like it'll be close to $1900 once I add a muffler. I'm between a GX630RHQZB3 and a GX630RHQZE, if anybody has any input on those units or one similar, that be great!
I guess I'll go do another cord of wood... It's a beautiful day, be nice to go float in the lake for an hour or two, but I'm gonna be needin a new engine soon >:( better go make a little $$$
Have you checked http://www.smallenginewarehouse.com/ (http://www.smallenginewarehouse.com/) ???
Corley, you Sir are a gentleman and a scholar! Thanks for the link! I'm pretty sure there price (shipped) is within dollars of one of the larger suppliers that I'd rather not use. There muffler are $30ish cheaper too! I got to get out my cash reserve envelope and see if I can afford to get the new unit coming now or later. Pretty sure the Honda GX630RHQZ3 IS gonna be my go to unit. Still looking at a few others too
Oh man, now I've goon down a work hole! Any feedback on the 35up Vanguard motors? I'd love to have the extra HP, but I don't want to throw money away on a junk !ptor, again!
Unrelated to your last question and more about your popping engine.... I had a B&S v twin in a lawn tractor that would run poorly on one cylinder and I looked at valve issues but it ended up to be some tiny O rings in the carb that swell up over time and cause the problem, replaced the o rings and all was well.
Have you looked at Kohler engines I have a 25 Hp with 1,000 hours on it and a 40 Hp big block that has 500 hours on it both have only needed general maintenance. I have a couple older Briggs V twin 20 Hp that have been good engines. I do have a buddy that him and his son run a lawn service as a second job and bought some zero turns a few years ago with the big block Briggs in them and I think so far they have been good engines. They went from Kohler's to the Briggs.
Thanks for all the help and replys guys! Pretty sure I'm gonna just replace the Pred with a Honda (like it had before). I'm looking at the Pres as a 1 year trial, that didn't work out. I haven't done all the math yet, but I'm pretty sure we've pushed about 100 cord through that motor between last year and this year, so it cost about $8 a cord for the Pres "rental". Lesson learned, save up front, but loose in the long run. The repower to a higher hp motor might have been nice, but not at the added expense, or the time to adapt that onto the pto that I want to take on right now. Guess I'll go grease equipment before I need to go to my real job!
Well, we got another 3 cord done in he HOT July heat this weekend. 1, off the splitter, and 2 more thorough the processor. The Pred is still fartin and spittin, but I had a long talk with it the other day and told it that it'd be in everyone's best interest of it'd just keep chugging away. So far, so good ;D
Is that thing running on mostly one cylinder and still putting out some wood? It's almost fun with something like that, wondering how long she'll go before it lets loose. As long as you got a plan in place. Of course most of you guys probably already heard that Briggs filed for chapter 11 this week. They've already got a buyer from what I've read.
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on July 21, 2020, 07:49:40 PM
The Pres is still fartin and spittin, but I had a long talk with it the other day and told it that it'd be in everyone's best interest of it'd just keep chugging away. So far, so good ;D
I've had talks like that with most of the equipment I run. Sometimes they listen and sometimes they don't. :D :D
We're still plugging along. We got 3 more cord done today, 2 on the processor, 1 combo of the skid steer splitter and my hydraulic splitter.
Here is my buddy dropping off a load of small diameter poles
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20200823_074134.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1598199402)
With that little Freightliner, and rear mount loader, he can load direct onto the deck ;D,
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20200823_074225.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1598199402)
Now we got something to work with!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20200823_074104.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1598199403)
Most of this wood was smallish diameter, but it worked up quick! We did 2 cord of 22in long, into his dump trailer, in just under an hour and a half! We were happy.
We did 1 more cord of 22in wood into my dump trailer. It was mostly big ugly logs. We presplit with tarp Blue Diamond, then did the final split on my old American splitter. The sun came on strong about 1/4 of the way into the cord. When we were done, there was 4 soaked and smelly guys!
The Pred. motor ran well today, not much farting and poppin! I got to check my tally sheet, but that should mean we're at 98 or 99 cord for the year. Gonna drop this one, clean up the door yard, then go float in the lake! I really hope we get some rain soon, it's bad dry here.
Good pics and thanks for sharing. Looking at the time of your post, I figure you guys got an early start. Had the same weather over here. Crazy how quick the heat came on yesterday. Went from 62° to 90° from 7:00 to 1:00. Had some wood chores I wanted to do myself, though nothing urgent. But as the temp went up, the ambition went down. By 11:00 it was tme to find another project. :)
Man, 99 cord is a lot of wood! My 10 cord is kicking my butt with just a single wedge splitter. I hauled and dropped 7 loads of logs in the previous 4 days, not to get bucking. Nice work. Yeah it was hot here yesterday too, just unloading the dump trailer and wrangling the logs into a working pile had me pretty moist. I am not far from Spike. I don't know which is worse, the heat, or the city folks on the local roads not understanding the weight and stopping distance of a fully loaded trailer. ;D
Have you checked your valve lash? Theres a fair chance that its too tight and the cam is burping out a bit of your compression stroke. It will cause what you describe.
I wouldnt spring for that new motor yet.
Spike, we had the logs unloaded and the processor singing by 7:50. The processor stuff went MINT! The "hand" stuff went ok, but the sun come out and that killed our groove! We were done around 11, then slung a good bit of bull!
Mr. Greenhorn, it's a good charge of wood, but I got great help too. Those cords you do by yourself would whoop me! The stuff we do by hand is usually bigger or ugly (kinda like me), but we have the tractor and grapple to move them, and set them onto my little brow, then roll into the splitter. That helps save the old back! The addition of the skid steer splitter has made that even nicer, we can now quarter those big chunks before putting them on the brow.
I got a guy that starts sweating BEFORE we start wood, he was DONE, by the end of yesterday!
All potential drivers should have to ride for at least 1 hour in a loaded dump truck or tractor trailer before getting a license. Maybe, just maybe, they wouldn't pull out in front of one, OR worse, stop for a dag-gum squirrel while in front of one (happend to me a few months ago, I used a lot of 4 letter words while braking that truck)!
Mike, when we pulled the v/c we checked lash. Can't remember the numbers, but the "good" cylinder and the bad was close on lash, not sooo much on compression :(. Hoping to keep limping her on a bit longer
Low compression is a bad sign. Only last ditch Hail Mary try might be to add some transmission oil (dextron 2) to the engine oil (a small amount for a short running time). A sticky valve or ring would be your hope for that. The popping could be a sticky valve. If the blowby of the cylinder can be felt out the oil plug or crank vent- probably rings. I dont recommend the miracle oil treatments on small engines - have tried them and found catastrophic results!
It would be interesting to try..sounds like you guys have run your equipment for some good hours!
jmur1
I got a few more hours out of the last GX670 on my Block Buster by adding Sea Foam to the engine oil. It prolonged the inevitable. The effect was noticeable immediately. The engine did suffer catastrophic failure eventually ;) ;D :) I'd never used Sea Foam in a crank case only as a fuel additive. The local small engine guy recommended it.
Well you guys jinxed me. My shiny gx390 coughed spurted and quit today just shy of a cord. Pulled the bowl and verified clean fuel, good needle and float etc. Definitely fueling related as it will only run -just barely- on full choke all of a sudden.
It was like my angel walked up, shot an arrow through it and said 'just build the dang processor already moron.'
Sorry Mike, didn't mean to give ya any of my small engine luck :-\ While getting lunch at the only store we have here in town (they do make a real good sam-ich), one of the guys was telling me about resighting a gun he had done some work on. He's got a 100yard range, his SuperSplit is about 10yards off the side of the range... When he went to check his target, well, it was blank. The splitter has a real nice grouping on it, mostly on/in the Honda :o He wasn't impressed with himself
ive wanted to shoot most of my junk many times!
jmur1's sticky valve is a possible cause, I wonder about trying a tank of mixed gas through it to see if it helps?
Thanks for the ideas guys. I'll give a Seafoam tank a shot first, that's easy enough, maybe a tad of ATF after that as a lube? But, I got to try and make it through this weekend's "away game" first. Gonna move the processor and support equipment tonight, try and get a cord done between organizing Sat, and go full steam Sunday... I hope :)
Try some ATF in the fuel, about 1 quart in 10 gallons. ATF is almost ALL detergent and has a little petroleum in it for lubricant and some additional additives to make trannies do what the engineers want them to do. It cleans well and I've used it with NO problems in my 99' Tacoma with almost 300,000 miles on it. My Tacoma really likes it. You never have to drain anything that way and it's never going to hurt anything that way.
But, just to make minimum octane rating, start this fuel mix with higher octane gas.
Tacotodd, hence my name
Todd
Just a quick update. We did 4 cord today off the processor, 2nd or 3rd week in a row the Pred has been running WOT with no farts, pops, burps, or misses! I did add a tick of atf to the fuel at one point. I'm thinking the heart to heart talk I had with the motor is what turned things around :D
Moved most of my equipment home tonight after 4 weekends of mobile processing from a friend s farm. Lots of general maintenance and set up this week, got a short list of orders to fill, then me and my guys need to put up next years wood for ourselves! Oh, and get some cut and stacked to season up for the folks that want to.pay more $ for dry vs getting a cord ahead every year and buying green. I don't mind, that dry wood $ helps pay for the familys Christmas things.
With any luck, and good weather and wood we may surpass our previous yearly cord record! It'd be neat, but we do it for cheap heat a bit of exercise, make a few bucks, and have fun with friends. We've got a bunch of cords moved this year, but also had enough weekends off to do family stuff too.
That last paragraph sums it up pretty good. Doing firewood with a few buddies or family members is more recreation and fun than work. Similar to playing hockey, softball, horeshoes or whatever. And the fact you're doing something constructive lends a legitimacy that doesn't exist if you simply say, "Honey, I'm going to hang out with the guys today and have a few beers." LOL Of course a few beers naturally follow all of these activities.
spike,
It also helps if we make just enough $ to cover buying our new toys! I mean tools. ;D
I don't understand it.
Even though there isn't much money in when you add it up.
I just can't stop doing it along with the sawmill business.
It's been awhile so I figured it's update time.
The Predator engine came out of it's funk and is running as good as it can :D. I've kept good fuel in it, and added a bit of ATF from time to time. It'll get the Seafoam treatment when we shutdown for winter.
I got to check my talley sheets, but we're just over 140 cord, that's a new record for us! I was hoping to hit 150, but we're expecting snow today, so I'll be plowing roads tonight so that'll kill this weekend. I got a minor procedure on my throat before Christmas that'll sideline me for a few day's, so I don't see us getting to 150. Still a great year, and we all still got all our fingers too ;D
I've been buying in grapple loads when available and when I got extra cash. Putting some away in my emergency / mud season pile and sorting the rest. Some are too big for the processor so we'll hand cut, some are ugly and that will go to the farm as boiler wood.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20201127_090406.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607176447)
That's 2.5 triaxles worth of logs before sorting
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20201127_090354.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607176448)
started sorting
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20201127_090249.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607176448)
working through the last of this years mud season stash. Once the brow/deck is empty, it'll get a good cleaning!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20201127_090550.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607176447)
The dooryard is "kinda" clean, getting ready for winter weather
Looks good, nice and tidy.
Glad I got the door yard cleaned up and some wood in the basement, winter showed up yesterday!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20201206_130923.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607284502)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20201206_130918.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607284502)
some of the emergency processor wood stash for mud season
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20200915_180431.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607176450)
This was just a few days ago, glad I got a few more buckets into the basement!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20200915_180446.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607176450)
I filled the rack after I took pics
We got the snow also.
My yards a mess , did get some stuff cleaned up.
I won't start cordwood again till January 1st
We're on borrowed time here as far as snow goes. Nothing on the ground and nothing in the forecast until next weekend and pretty nice for the week ahead. I've got things pretty well picked up and caught up. Going to tie up loose ends tomorrow and go back to the sugar bush Tuesday.
Funny that it was 45 up in mass all week while it was snowing and 18 in TN. Water froze up on the wife while i was gone.
Mike, that stinks! How come things always go sideways at the home front, when we're not ON THE HOME FRONT? Always works that way for me too!
Corley, I have been saying we're on borrowed time since Thanksgiving, but I still dragged my feet on a few outdoor projects! One or two decent afternoons and I'll get those pretty squared up too.
Bruno, I got called into.plow for the town at noon Sat. Made it almost all through my plow route before a hydraulic hose for the front of the wing gave up the ghost! Me and another guy, (he was a way bigger help than me) got it changed out (went from wing post all the way to a valve bank behind the cab :(), then finished my route. We stopped for dinner, and the storm switched to rain then back to snow... It was a mess, some trees down, lots of low lines, just tons of fun! Got home at 5:30 Sunday am, just in time for the wife to head up to the farm to milk! I hope to do a bit more cordwood before Christmas, but I also have a line on some free tree length at a house lot, that might take priority!
I lined up a selfloader today.
A excavation contractor that I trade sawn wood with gave me a load of firewood logs.
We have a similar processor Granite.
20200114 firewood processing - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxHoVDRU21k)
Its served us well now for about a year. Its a 2014 model. Only issue I have with it is the ram will stall on some tough pieces of maple or yellow birch, stalling the engine.
Those Hakkis are really fast in the smaller diameter wood, if I didn't have a mix of the larger stuff I probably would've went with a Hakki myself.
Our mix ranges from 3 inch to 24 inch. Anything over 15" and/or gnarly and/or I think will cause me grief at the processor goes to the log deck for chainsaw blocking.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20201004_140522-firewood-large-log-crib-ready.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607446936)
Quote from: jimbarry on December 08, 2020, 06:43:45 AM
We have a similar processor Granite.
20200114 firewood processing - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxHoVDRU21k)
Its served us well now for about a year. Its a 2014 model. Only issue I have with it is the ram will stall on some tough pieces of maple or yellow birch, stalling the engine.
If you back off the relief valve it'll stay running (which is better than bending a rod or removing the ring lands) but obviously have a weaker capacity.
That is a good indication that a 2 stage pump or bigger engine would be beneficial. Until physical structure parts start breaking of coarse.
23HP Subaru not enough?
Jim, I like yours better! Mine is older and I don't have the joysticks, I got to pull the saw down through the logs :( It does help to determine when its time to switch to a sharp chain!
Is that an Eastonmade splitter next to the processor? How do you like it?
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on December 08, 2020, 08:10:54 PM
Jim, I like yours better! Mine is older and I don't have the joysticks, I got to pull the saw down through the logs :( It does help to determine when its time to switch to a sharp chain!
Is that an Eastonmade splitter next to the processor? How do you like it?
Yeah, there were plenty of pull type processors for sale. I have no interest in pulling down on a bar all day. I waited until a joystick come up for sale, took about a year of searching but I got it.
Yes, that's an EastonMade 12-22, one of their early model. Built tough and bulletproof. Haven't met a piece of yellow birch or crotchety beech it could not split. Hell of a machine.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20191019-firewood-husqvarna-eastonmadesplitter-gina.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607736439)
Jim whats the yellow attachment on your CTL?
Quote from: mike_belben on December 12, 2020, 03:11:56 AM
Jim whats the yellow attachment on your CTL?
CTL? Is that compact track loader? We call it a MTL here. Multi terrain loader. The attachment on the front is a grapple.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20180607-big-ash-4-skidsteer-grapple-jim.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1607608857)
They use that term here as well. The difference they say is a CTL is a rigid undercarriage and the MTL multi terrain Loader has independent bogies 😂
On the Cat machines, the models ending in 9 (259, 279, 289 etc) have the Cat undercarriage and are called Compact Track Loaders. The models ending in 7 (257, 277, 287 etc) have the ASV undercarriage and are called Multi Terrain Loaders.
ASV undercarriage. Its a 257B2. I just finished rebuilding it. New tracks, frame and new front and rear idler wheels.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20201024_132125-skidsteer-repairs-Jim.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1608288811)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20201202_163555-skidsteer-rebuild-old-come-along.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1608288745)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20201214_152457-skidsteer-rebuild-complete.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1608288959)
Sorry to hear that, Jim😬 I bet that was expensive!
which one use rubber idler track frames and mini rubber rocker walking beams? i see the front torsion stub with the solid beam. did they discontinue the individual pairs?
how many hours you get from the original bottom?
Quote from: barbender on December 18, 2020, 09:30:22 AM
Sorry to hear that, Jim😬 I bet that was expensive!
2 Tracks, 2 frames, 8 front and rear hubs, 4 front wheels, 24 snap rings, 6 wheel covers, 24 o-rings. Came to about CAD$8000 (about USD$6000).
Quote from: mike_belben on December 18, 2020, 09:36:02 AM
how many hours you get from the original bottom?
I got the machine at 4200hrs back in 2015. Its got 4700 on it now. Looking at the old frame, it was sleeved at least once already.
@jimbarry (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=10037) what is the brand and model of the log grapple? I know you have mentioned it before.
I believe it's a Wallenstein. That attachment is handier around the woodyard than I can even say. One thing tough, they are dangerous, especially with longer wood. It's easy to swing or pull stuff right into the cab, so you have to watch it!
Quote from: doc henderson on December 19, 2020, 02:46:46 PM
@jimbarry (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=10037) what is the brand and model of the log grapple? I know you have mentioned it before.
@doc henderson (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=41041) It is a Wallenstein make. They painted it CAT colour. Best $5500 I ever spent.
Managed to get wood moved from a friends new house lot. It has a longer driveway and a bigger house plot. I'm pretty sure I got 6ish cord of processor wood, 2 cord of ugly/tops that went to the farm for the OWB, and enough saw logs to make the trucking worthwhile for my buddy. I was able to cut and sort most stuff at the house lot, that'll save me time on the next step! All I owe is 1 cord processed up and delivered, in no rush, so I am happy. Spent 2 afternoons getting it done, still think I made out ok vs just buying wood in.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20201223_154648.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1608909412)
Every time I make a dent in this pile, move a cord or two, loading up the brow or refilling my emergency log stash, another truck.load or two shows up and hides my progress!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20201223_154711.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1608909411)
I'm not complaining, it's a pretty good problem to have! AND, it's all paid for too! I had minor throat procedure done Thursday and really wanted to get this outta the way beforehand. I don't like having too many things hanging out on my to do list!
We took most of the winter off from doing firewood, except and odd cord here or there. Got a bunch of wood piled up some great processor, some that'll be done with the chainsaw and splitter, and some that headed right to the wood boiler at the farm!
I ended up getting 20something cord of stuff from a fella making a new horse pasture down the road. Wasn't the prettiest wood(as far as feeding the Hockey Puck), but the price was right and it was close to home.Got two more to process tomm and then some family time, atv ride and a bday party. Stay safe everyone
over sized and ugly wood, waiting for a saw party!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210410_124418.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1618073378)
loaded brow and shorts pile
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210410_124428.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1618073377)
my main pile of logs I'm drawing from
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210410_124459.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1618073378)
some sorting and trimming left to do, but the processor will ear most of these logs. Wife told me a few weeks ago "No more log trucks n the yard til some firewood goes out!". She doesn't usually care, so when she says something I usually listen, mostly, sometimes ;D She didn't notice the six wheeler load of pine I brought in to make campwood...yet
Hey Granitestate, how well does camp wood sell? I've been thinking of doing some myself.
cutterboy,
Once I got into a campground, it was easy. I got a call from one person, delivered an honest cord at a fair price. One camper (seasonal) tells there neighbor, they tell the next neighbor... I had 2 customers the first year, 7 year 2, figure just as many or more this year. I sell 18in pine at $185 a cord, 22in at $175 a cord. I'm not the cheapest guy around, but I figure it's the same amount of work to make a cord of soft or hardwood, so I'm gonna get paid for my work!
One of my buddy's that helps me with wood lives on a state road near a couple lakes/ponds. We'll run off a pickup load for him every couple weeks. He puts them in a bin at the end of his driveway, self serve, $3 a bin. His kid gets a buck, he gets a buck, and I get a buck from each sale. I don't get rich but his little guy learns to keep the rack full and I get burger $
In my early 20's I mowed one lawn and did some yard work for a person. That person told her neighbor and I stated working for her. Than another neighbor came over and asked her about me and I started to work for him. Than another neighbor came to see him........ I was a busy guy!!!
At the time I had my hourly rate up there. But as I was told more than once, you never stop and the job is done right and quick. They was willing to pay for that.
They are willing to pay for it now too. Hard to find a good handy man now.
Me and the Predator 670 engine on the PTO unit for my processor have had cross words...again. I thought I was having a fuel delivery issue, not that it'd be a huge surprise, I have a 5 or 6 gallon plastic cell that sits on the PTO unit, it's always real dusty & and saw dust around when I fill up, figured some junk my have got past BOTH fuel filters. I blew the lines out and then blew the filter out. Got her fired up for about long enough to get the air cleaner back on and she died again. Ok, one more time, repeat the same process again. This time all was good for about 3 min then, it just DIED. Ok, one more time with checking lines, clamps, leaks, etc, all good to go. I managed to get about 1/3 of a cord done and it was time to start dinner, do the rest the next day. Next day comes and she don't want to start. I checked fuel...again ;D, that was good. Pulled a plug and turned it over, no spark :(. Ok, check the basics, cleaned up the flywheel and magnet, checked the coil gap, checked the starter switch. 2 hrs later, I need to walk away for a while. My buddys dad came over today, brought his spark tester. We unplugged both small wires off the coils, AND WE HAD SPARK! kept working our way down the line. Key switch tested good, so didn't the carb solenoid. Came down to a wire going to the "Low Oil Alert Box". I had tried unplugging the oil switch earlier but not this 3 wire magic that bolts on near the starter. My buddys dad was concerned about running it without the low oil deal connnected, but I told him I was super thankful that it was up and running again and if the thing spit a rod out the side then I'd HAVE TO GO BUY A HONDA and that wouldn't be a bad thing! After he left I had to put all the plastic shields back on and then got it up and going again. Wouldn't ya know, it started surging, and running like crap. Shut it down double and triple checked everything. It came out of it after 20 minutes of running. I've got it going with the oil alert box bypassed. I think I can get a new one for $30, just not sure that this motor is worth it. I'm starting to price out Honda's again, I know it'll hurt a bit at first but I'm sure I'll be way happier with a GX630 than this Predator!
I had an issue with my GX670 just a couple days ago. It went down on the outside cylinder. Pull the plug wire and no change. Dead on that cylinder. Spark yes and the plug was wet. Getting fuel... Put in a new plug. No change. smiley_headscratch smiley_headscratch Fuel at the end filter. Lots of it. I run two filters too ;D Put on new filters anyway. No change. smiley_headscratch smiley_headscratch Fire it up and give it a snort of ether and it runs on two... Then I find it'll run on two at almost full choke. Off with the carb. I completely disassembled it, cleaned it, and put it back together. I didn't find anything plugging anything anywhere but that was the cure. What threw me off was the plug being wet and smelling of gas... I think a piece of crud broke loose from the logs dropping in from the new deck, they fall a bit farther than they used to, and restricted the jet for that cylinder. I've got the low oil shut offs unhooked on all my Hondas. Just check the oil. We lived a long time without such things ;) ;D :)
Id also just delete the oil switch and give the coil whatever condition it wants.
Carb teardowns are just part of life with ethanol.
thanks guys! Corley, so the not running right deal isn't just me ;D. I've grown to hate the Pred, I'm starting to squirrel away a little bit from each cord to go into a new Honda, maybe then I'll only need to do maintenance on the dang thing???
Mike, I like corn, but I HATE gas with corn in it! I should look into the little airport in Rochester and see if they have non ethanol fuel there?
Have you looked inside the float bowl?
As long as you can keep your fuel flushed/renewed by new fuel (and tuned properly) then it should be okay. If not on either (or both) welcome to the "fun" of fixing it.
If you have any marinas or popular snowmobile destinations nearby they are usually a good bet for non ethanol. We get enough boat and sled traffic locally that it is available at the middle of nowhere and the middle of town regular gas stations.
still going on firewood. The ole Pred is plugging away, trying to get me to either tear out more hair, or what little I have left go gray all at once! She was acting up again a month back, would start for a bit, then stop. I thought (that don't happen often) that it was fuel delivery. I was sick of issues, so I replaced, plugs, fuel line, blew out tank, 2 fuel filters, hose clamps. Yeah, that weren't it :( Ended up being the magic oil brain box thing. Ended up unplugging that and off she went. My buddy's dad was a huge help, he kept me sane. He was concerned that I wasn't buying a new oil level/pressure brain box. I told him how much I hated the engine, and that if it blew up, then I'd have to buy something better ;D. I do check the level every time before start up and when fueling.
I did a couple cord myself the other day, it was fathers day weekend and my buddys had more important stuff to do!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210620_074049.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624403509)
Since I was a one man band Sunday, I stacked the deck low, and with the straight-est logs I had one hand.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210620_074053.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624403509)
The ole HockeyPuck 1x37 ready to make big pieces of wood into little pieces. I had a cord of 18in and a cord of 22in to do.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210620_074142.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624403508)
It was a nice morning to work up some wood. I was done before 11 and up to the farm for father's day with family by noon.
Here's the 22in cord, still sitting at the landing 2 days later. I guess some people aren't really ready to get all there firewood at once...even if they tell you they are!!!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210622_192536.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624404853)
nice, steady, much needed rain, "cleaning" this fresh cut cord. Can I get extra $ for freshly laundered cordwood?
I think you can unplug that oil sentry thing, if you dare! :) I think it opens a ground (to the coil). so you can also just run power to a light, and use it as the ground and viola you get a light for low oil, and not kill the engine.
I've found that once I get to the point that I'm wishing death on an engine or machine, our relationship is unsalvageable😊
Sometimes the biggest problem selling firewood is the customer. :-\
Last fall a local guy bought my last full box of firewood and noticed that I had a small pile of wood left in the barn. He asked if he could buy it (about half a box) and he would be back in the afternoon to get it. I loaded the wood in a box and set it out for him. Two weeks later it was still there. I transported it back into the barn and early this spring I burned that wood in my woodstove.
I like Doc's light idea, but really not a big deal to disconnect the low oil sensor. All ya gotta do is check the oil before you fire up the machine.
Thanks again for the continuing pics and updates, and hope you had a great father's day. :)
As the oil sensors on my Hondas both big and small have failed I've
by-passed them. Internal combustion engines survived for decades without such things. We as operators keep an eye on oil levels. An engine running remotely without human supervision would benefit from low oil shutdown sensors but a low oil level shutdown probably means the engine has other issues that need addressing beyond adding oil.
Same. Check oil, maintain oil and filtration, run machine. If it sounds or smells bad shut it off and dig deeper.
but a low oil level shutdown probably means the engine has other issues that need addressing beyond adding oil.
That's what I was thinking, if it's lost oil pressure, and I checked the level an hour before, might as well run her til she pops cause I'm not tearing down this Pred!
Check oil, maintain oil and filtration, run machine.
Mike, I use a good Toyota oil filter, from my dealership days, and the finest bottom shelf discount oil I can get my hands on!
Quote from: Spike60 on June 23, 2021, 07:44:08 AM
Thanks again for the continuing pics and updates, and hope you had a great father's day. :)
Spike,
I'll keep em coming as long as I don't bore you all with my little operation.
Father's Day was great. My birthday was the day before, so I got to sit in a comfy chair outside and sling the bull with the family. Kids (cousins) all played around outside and had a blast too. Heck, I didn't even have to man the grill!
GRANITEstateMP Glad to see your back to making firewood. Spraying around here is finally winding down so we have gotten back to bucking some hedge logs from last year. Was planning on splitting them Saturday but we had a inch of rain over night and maybe some more tonight. We needed it. Been very dry and hot. Glad the old HF motor is still going. I have only seen one of those low oil devices save a engine. Had a buddy that called last summer and said he couldn't get his 13 HP Honda started on his spray tender trailer. I said being smart you know does it have gas and oil. Phone went dead for a second. He said it does have gas maybe I better check the oil. He hadn't checked or changed the oil in ten years of running the pump on the tender. He changed what oil was left. Fired it back up and its still running today. I have several engines around the farm the low oil device is unhooked but I check and change my oil.
hedgerow,
Glad to hear your back up to cutting up some logs. If you wanna send a bit of that inch of rain over ere to NH, we'll take it. First hay cutting is done, and cow corn is coming up, but we're still short on rain for the year.
Sorting. My little processor can be a picky eater. Over the years I've found certain trees that it doesn't want to eat :-\. Depending where I source my wood from makes a difference in how much sorting I got to do. If my load comes from a 60 acre select cut, I'd say 90% of the wood goes into the processor, the rest is hand cut. If it's a 2acre house lot, a right of way, etc, then I got a bunch of sorts. I like my processor wood 12-16ft and under 15in (max diameter for the machine), that's sort 1. Next is anything meeting the diameter, but under 10ft, that's sort 2. Next is oversized, crooked, or super knotty, those go into the chainsaw pile and we hand cut them and run them on the hydulic splitter, that's sort 3. Sort 4 is pine or softwood. It's normally in it's own load, but again if it's a house lot and the price is right... Sort 5 is the ugly stuff. Rot, crotches, bugs, real ugly, that fun stuff. That gets set aside and when I've got a big enough pile, it goes to the farm or my wifes uncles place. They both have outdoor boilers, those will eat anything, as long as it fits through the door!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210623_200825.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624637840)
this is sort 1, real nice load of mixed hardwood from a local family logging outfit. Most are 16ft and can go from there drop pile, right onto my brow for processing. Sometimes, I'll have to cut off a 22in (length I burn) butt flare and then I can move the log to the brow
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210623_200557.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624637842)
Sort 2, the "shorts", good wood, just won't go easy on my little brow so when I have extra help, these get loaded onto the machine with the tractor.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210623_200518.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624637842)
Sort 3, oversized and not straight enough logs. We buck most of this stuff to 22in long. My house and 3 of my helper/buddy's all burn that length wood. We sell another 8-10ish cord a year in that length also.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210623_200611.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624637840)
The ugly. Some real gems here. We also bin up the real short pieces, they go to the boiler too.
Sorting takes time, but makes the actual firewood production go way quicker AND easier. I don't have help very often, so when they're here, I wanna make big sticks into little sticks, not mess around with ugly logs
Thanks for taking the time to share that. Ive been thinking collecting and sketching literally for years on how to make a machine that will eat 90 of any forest's cull wood efficiently enough to profit at $150 a cord. Quite a challenge.
What are the reasons in order of severity that your machine wont run a stick? I assume its mostly failure to feed issues? Any information on what it wont do would be helpful to me really and id greatly appreciate it as im getting close to starting soon.
Quote from: mike_belben on June 25, 2021, 12:50:15 PM
Thanks for taking the time to share that. Ive been thinking collecting and sketching literally for years on how to make a machine that will eat 90 of any forest's cull wood efficiently enough to profit at $150 a cord. Quite a challenge.
What are the reasons in order of severity that your machine wont run a stick? I assume its mostly failure to feed issues? Any information on what it wont do would be helpful to me really and id greatly appreciate it as im getting close to starting soon.
I ran a Dyna and I sorted the wood much the same. Crooked wood doesn't feed on a chain/trough system. It also causes issues at the "cutting" area which is a "constriction point". A crooked piece in effect "enlarges" the diameter and will hit the top or sides of the cutting trough or holding arm.
For my market inside stove wood outsold "boiler wood" 10-1. My boiler customers were mostly farmers who were getting a little older and had some health issues that kept them from being able to continue processing their own wood. The relevance is that when you get much past 10" diameter you either have to step up to a major sized machine that will handle a 12way+ wedge($100k) or a bunch of re-splitting. A light-weight 20-40hp machine doesn't have the engine hp, hydro pump, or steel to handle even knotty 4-way splits let alone a 12 or 16 way wedge.
Also wood being what it is, crooked also often means the heart will not be centered in the block; and if it is the round will not be when it encounters your wedge so your 4-6 pieces could end up very oddly proportioned in size.
I had a dump trailer and delivered some loads but quickly decided I was dollars ahead to discount the price and let them fetch it. If you have an efficient splitting set up you can process faster than you can deliver. Your volume in TN will be people looking for cheap heat. They will find a truck or trailer to come get your wood for a discount that you wouldn't want to deliver for.
As an observation, I ran three machines. The Eastonmade 22-28 which would eat anything, the Dyna SC14 35hp Kohler which could handle a 4 way wedge in reasonable sized and not overly knotty wood, and a kinetic Super Split HD for most re-splits.
The Dyna was set-up with a 4" cylinder and regen circuit for a fast cycle time. The Eastonmade ran a 5" cylinder at a higher pressure/two stage pump so it was capable of tearing itself up if you didn't pay attention.
The rub is for one size fits all you need to choose between oversize which costs more to build and operate, speed which requires ideal feedstock, or tonnage/versatility which sacrifices speed for power.
In the end maybe modify a more open Dyna deck/saw system and then weld an Eastonmade type log lift and splitter chamber onto that you could easily access at working height to position blocks resplits etc.
Thanks SB. Lot of good info.
I still have my conventional 5" vert/horiz 13hp splitter and my manual limb rack for non splits.. Nothing hydraulic will outpace that thing.
I think im set on building a sliding chute thats slaved to the split cylinder with one way snake fangs to advance. I will probably put an atv winch on top with a hammer cleat for anything that fusses about feeding that way.
Still on the fence about conventional or box wedge design. Plusses and minuses everywhere ya look.
Mike, Stavebuyer brought up a lot of good points!
My biggest issues are:
Diameter, Max is 15in. Any bigger and you'll hit the bar and chain when feeding. Also, with any of the larger diameters (11-15) we usually have to resplit once anyway (4 way wedge, not enough umph to use the 6 way much)
Crooked Wood - The longer the stem I feed in, the more cuts before lifting another log on. 12-16 ft wood is great, but sometimes I need to trim up a 12ft piece into an 8 to get it to feed easy. Yeah, maybe I could have fed the 12 in, but if you wrestle that stem for 10 minutes to feed so you get 3 extra cuts, it's not worth it time wise. I'll process the 8 and hand cut the 4, no waste and keeps the efficient machine happy too.
Knots/Ugly - sometimes you just look at a log and say your going to the hand cut pile! If its got big knots, or a large branch was trimmed off, I sort it out. Again, I could split it with the machine, but why take the chance snapping the wedge for a piece of wood you know is gonna come out ugly, just do it on the regular splitter and come out ahead in the end.
I got better at sorting what it likes and don't like after making a bunch of mistakes. Good news, I actually learned from said mistakes! Some of its trial and error too. One thing we still fight is when we're cutting bigger diameter wood and it falls into the split chamber, sometimes. it'll bounce back ups and knock the chain off. It may happen once every 5 or 6 cord of bigger stuff, or three times in one log, it's just one of the quirks with this machine, once your aware of the possibility that it can happen, you try and prepare for it.
I'd love to have a better processor that can do bigger diameter wood, do it faster, and do it more mechanized, but what I've got works for now (and it's paid for) and when I looked at taking the next step up in machines, it was too big a leap, maybe soon, maybe not
A lot of good points made here with running a smaller processor like the hakki pilki 37easy. That's what we have. Runs ok most of the time. Straight into the back of the truck we can do a cord in about 1.25 hrs between the wife and I.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20210420_085751-firewood-processor-gina.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624923106)
The big knarly stuff goes to the other log deck for putting through an EastonMade 12-22.
Time wise, we can do a cord on the eastonmade just about the same time putting a cord through the processor.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20210601_113532-firewood-eastonmade-gina.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624923205)
Jim, I like your raised brow for loading.
We average pretty near the same, 50-75 minutes a cord for 16-18in wood, a bit less when doing 22's. We've had some sub 40 minute cords doing 22's, but the wood was "just right" and the mechanical gods smiled down on us that day! ;D
We've had a bit more than 3.5in of much needed rain between Thursday at 5pm, and when I dumped the rain gauge at 7am today (Sun). I'm not complaining, we really need the rain, but I need to move wood too! It wasn't raining when I started at 7:30 this am, just overcast. First log through the processor started good, the the splitter started auto cycling on it's own... Got the tools out and made on small adjustment on a small stopper/bolt. The machine is ALL mechanical, so from time to time you may need to add a tad of weld,or tweak a bolt. Of course while I eas twisting the wrenches, it started to rain. Out comes the ultra high tech severe weather gear, ie, the 8x10 pop up from Princess Auto. It keeps most of the water off of me when processing, most. My buddy showed up once the machine was back up and running. The rain slowed as we got first cord done. I got the first trailer moved and the empty trailer backed under the processor. That when it really started raining! We got that cord done, it was a bit of a challenge, then we called it a day! I was soaked and headed in for a hot shower. I'll finish cleaning the processor area, fuel equipment, dump sawdust, and deliver wood later, I think it's time for a rest, and wait til that Sun thing that's now peeking out to do a bit of drying!
update - We've been plugging away mostly getting 3 cords done a weekend some weeks better, some not. After today we're up to 77 cord done and delivered so far. I know I've got another 10ish cord worth of orders to complete then we'll work on topping off all our own wood cribs (me and my buddys/helpers/friends, try and stay 2 years ahead on wood)
My portable PTO unit has been acting a bit hoo-key lately, the belt seems to slip way more than it used to. I am gonna try and investigate that at some point this week, after I reload the log deck
look close at the vee of your pulleys, the cheek area of the sheaves will wear out and go from being an A belt to a B belt basically. they'll slip in time.
Mike, I was thinking it'd be something like that. Pretty sure they are TSC pulley made out of some Chineseum metal. I had a load to deliver yesterday, so I haven't had a chance to look into it yet. It also has a few tension springs that are probably due for replacing.
new, bigger idler/tensioner pulley and a stronger tensioner spring installed this evening. I ran it for a few with the belt cover off, seems to track fine, we'll give it a hot suppah test tomorrow!
So...I'm not too bright. I got my little PTO unit all tuned up, new belt, bigger idler pulley, bigger tension spring, all in an effort to make sure that when the processor is splitting nd hits a hard chunk/spot/knot that the TO unit doesn't slip it's belt and not put the power to the hydo pump, where I need it. The first tree through was a small, maybe 8in dia red oak, pretty straight not many limbs... yeah, it started to slip on the second block through. I tried profanity, but that didn't fix it! I had my brother run the machine a bit while I inspect ed things. Yeah, turns out that it wasn't my newly repaired portable PTO unit slipping, it was the hydro drive belts on the machine! Power from thr PTO drives a gearbox with 1 pulley off the front and a triple pulley on the rear. The front pulley is a constant to the elevator, the triple runs the hydro pump, somewhere in there is a belt to the chainsaw too??? Anyway, I shut everything down and re-tensioned the triple belts, low and behold, no more slipping! At least most of the maintenance on the PTO Unit is done!
Couple pics, this is some of the stuff we're feeding the processor right now, a good mix of oak and maple with a bit of black birch, beech, and ash. I got 2 tri axle loads of this stuff, and 95% of it can go through my little machine!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210906_102254.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1630938300)
I had this other landing all cleaned up on Sat afternoon. Then Sunday a friend called and had to take a few more trees down for a driveway on a new house lot. Guess I won't complain about free logs! A few are outdoor boiler bound, the rest are firewood. The giant oak butts were payment to my buddy for trucking
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210906_102259.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1630938300)
Swearing didnt fix it because you didnt throw enough tools. Try harder next time.
;)
Mike, I knew I forgot something!
hey it happens. keep an eye on the mail, i sent out billing invoices on thursday. smiley_contract_point
I will send you an envelope full of Biden Bucks :(
I was hoping for barge bucks but ill take what i can get!
This weekend was just a bit of firewood but plenty of family, friends and fun!
A buddy of mine gave us tickets to a Boston Bruins preseason game Thurs night. GREAT seats! It was my son's first game (he's 11), and he made it to the start of the 3rd before me and the wife figured it was time to head home. We had a great time and I only got turned around in the city ONCE!
Friday I took off from work. The local fair was going on, we kept the boy home and headed over as a family once the wife was done milking cows. We did plenty of walking, looking, eating, and visiting. I help out in the tractor pull area every year and headed down to that mid day. Spent the rest of the night hooking tractors or honing the track, had a blast. A bunch of my buddies helped out too, and it's a real good group that comes and pulls each year. Saturday was more the same, tractor s in the am, trucks at night. It was a long day(and night), but again we had FUN.
Sunday, I slept in! Made pancakes, reloaded the basement firewood racks and did a cord of campwood.
A great weekend for sure!
I did some math too, 88 cord done up so far this year
Does anyone from the mass TPA pull at your event?
What fair was that one? Always on the lookout for ones with a good agricultural base.
Mike, I'm not aware of the Massachusetts Toiletpaper Association. Is that a State agency of the Commonwealth or a local thing? ;D
I think most of the truck puller are from the Conn. Valley. I see a lot of VT plates, as well as NH, on the tow rigs. Like I said they are a nice bunch. The tractor guys are from all over. Plenty of NH guys, as well as Mass, VT, and a few as far as CT.
Newoodguy78,
It's Deerfield Fair, over here in Rockingham County. Pretty good AG fair, AND it's 10-15 minutes from home!
Have you been to Fryeburg Fair just over the boarder in Maine? Great AG fair 15-20 minutes outside of Conway
With how scared of covid those urban yankees are they probably have started toilet paper associations and co-ops by now! :D
MTPA = mass truck pullers association, they tend to run at the fairs in the berkshires, a bunch of trucks got built at the diesel shop i worked at. A purple 2 wheeler dodge dakota with an alcohol blown hemi would probably be the most memorable. Same guy also runs a yellow 4wd squarebody GM with big with wide paddles, headers up out of the hood and broken pistons dangling all over the front bumper.
I have been to both of those fairs. Deerfield is one of the best in NH in my opinion. You're lucky to live so close. Fryeburg seems to be in kind of a league of their own, the amount of Oxen and livestock it draws in is phenomenal.
Both are my kind of fair agricultural base and always clean and tidy.
Mike,
I'd have remembered the yellow chevy with pistons hanging if I saw it, that would be unique! I don't think many trucks came from the Commonwealth. Maybe our Live Free or Die state motto scares them? :D. It'd be great if śome came up next year, this group seems pretty good, seen on more than one occasion guys helping out there competition with parts, wrenching, and sometimes that pat on the back with the "I've been there before"
The thing I like about the truck and tractor pullers is they show up to put on or be part of a show and are given free entry into the fair as a result, makes sense to me. I come from a circle track racing background. You pay MORE money to get into the pits and compete, and put on a show ???
newoodguy78,
You over by the Cheshire Fairgrounds area? I haven't been there in forever!
We are pretty lucky to live in the area. Two of the things I like the most is the AG atmosphere, and that the grounds are well kept. My wifes family sent a pair of calves to a local high school FFA class, and they were in the petting barn. The students do a great job with the animals, and when they return them in June they'll be the most pampered heifers on the farm!
Fryeburg is great. I love the indoor pull arena. They get animals from all over for the pull too. They've always had a pretty good Lumbermen's day each year too. It's super clean, nice buildings, and real nice people. We missed it again this year, too much corn to cut and such. We'll get there again sooner vs later
I grew up about 20 minutes south of the Cheshire fairgrounds. I haven't been to it since can't remember when. Last time I went the carnival side of it seemed to have taken over. Sad to see but not much of any ag left in Cheshire county. Props to you for having a wife that milks cows. Take care of her sure she's a good one .
Got many acres left to chop?
Down to the last field. Brother in law wants to try and finish tomm. I will head up and help after getting 2-3 cord done in the am
Good luck getting finished up.
Quote from: newoodguy78 on October 10, 2021, 08:00:48 AM
Good luck getting finished up.
Well...the firewood part of my Sunday went as planned! I was running my first cord up to the neighbors house when I saw the Case 8929 with the chopper and no dump wagon headed down the road at me. He made it about 100 yards and blew an upper gathering chain off the corn head. If that wasn't bad enough, part of it went through the chopper! The spare head is in the shop, one of those when you get a minute jobs, that never get a minute. Stole a pair of chains from that, he got things timed, I provided brute force. Had to remove either 4 or 6 new this season knives, cause they didn't like eating chain!
They finished up yesterday instead. I hope they cover the silo today, while I'm at work, not a fan of that part.
No rest for the weary
short naps Mike. No rest, just nap time.
Sorry to hear about the chopper issues. That was always my biggest fear when chopping, I've heard many horror stories of the infeed chains going through the chopper, never ends well.
Must've been something in the air this weekend. Ended up breaking something major in the rear end/transfer case of the 445. Not fun
How's that saying go? If you ain't fixin you ain't farmin :D
Working at this stuff usually takes a solid set of tools. (Not to mention the ability to use them while standing on your head while oil/water drips on your nose)
jmur1
Isn't that the truth, also found on certain days a well rounded vocabulary that kids shouldn't hear doesn't hurt either
passed 100 cord for the year today! 2 more off the processor and 1 off the splitter. Got a couple more orders, then maybe, I hope, get a good pile done up for me to slowly get stacked up
Congrats, thats a lotta laboring!
All that labor Mike, and no baby!
Well im sure the machines consumed plenty of diapers and formula to produce 100 cd.
Hey Gstate, that's a lot of wood. Keep it coming.
Well, I did up my final numbers, looks like 111 cord for the year (110.5, but I round up!!!). Not too shabby, I spent more time the last month cleaning up the door yard, doing family things, and sanding and salting roads (got a bunch of weekend weather events) than making wood. I sold 2 cord of 1 year seasoned wood, that money went into an envelope and into the safe to help pay for next years Christmas. I got !ost of my wood stacked for 2023 or maybe 24? Got to add 2 more cords and then thats done! Next a new wood shed-ish area...
Last cord leaving. Yeah, it was dark, not the most fun to deliver!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20211231_163709.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1640992204)
This is how I spent most of Christmas. Not a ton of fun, but at least I got to see the family a bit between runs.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20211226_075423.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1640992204)
I redid my math's (3 times), we're at 113 cord for the year. With math skills like mine I could work for the Goobber-mint ;D
That's a lot of wood! Especially for a "hobby" operation😊 I haven't kept track, I doubt I did 50 cords. I bought a processor but I haven't had a chance to use it to potential. Sawmilling has been much more lucrative since Covid hit and I have to choose where I spend my spare time.
barbender,
what did you end up with for a processor? Feel free to bring in to NH, I'll put some hours on it for you! I've been wanting to upgrade, even looked at one used one before KungFlu hit. Prices, and availability have gone crazy, so I'm sticking with what I got and putting a bit of money aside. I'll either put it toward a newer processor when the bubble bursts, or up grade one of my dump trailers.
I got a Dyna SC-14. It suits my operation pretty well. I got a great deal on it, it only had 35 hours on it, I think it's a 2014 model. They are over $50K new now, I got mine for less than half of that. No way I'd pay $50 for one.
that the model that I think I'd like to step up to! I had found one used in Maine, and spoke to the fella selling it. He didn't want to take mine in trade (he wasn't a real "dealer", but had a web page with used iron), and the one he had for sale was 3 or 4 years older than the year listed, and someone had done some less than stellar wiring repairs...on top of that, the price wasn't ideal. I paid off my truck vs getting another project. If I could find one like you got, I'd jump on it!
Yeah I found it on a FB selling page, contacted the guy and he said it was his Dad's. He had already consigned it with an auction site, so then I had to wait for the scheduled auction that was almost 3 months away🤦🏻♂️ At any rate, won the bidding and had to run down to Indiana to pick it up. You know how there should be laws against some people owning equipment? Haha this was definitely a case of that. With only 35 hours they hadn't had time to really damage anything but they had messed with 2 items that cost me HOURS of troubleshooting. 1, the 38 Kohler would over rev by almost 1000 rpms, and surge and hunt. I changed filters, cleaned the carb. I was expecting fuel issues from sitting but everything looked like new. Tried adjusting the governor after finding and downloading a manual. On and on it went. Finally figured out they had replaced the original governor linkage spring with one off of, who knows? A screen door or something🤷♂️🤦🏻♂️ Ordered the correct spring and installed, what do you know it runs like a top!🤷♂️ The other mystery issue was it would cut great 3/4 of the way through a log, and then just stop. Chain spinning freely it just wouldn't feed all the way. I had ordered new chains when they arrived I could see the problem immediately. It uses .404 harvester bar and chain. .80 guage. Well these dummies had apparently replaced the chain with an .063 404 chainsaw chain, so it was walking back and forth in the bar groove. The bar would hang on the wood when the chain walked to the opposite side. Things that are obvious once figured out, but cause some real frustration and colorful language until that point. But now everything is good, and those are minor issues compared to the amount of money I saved!
We're back at it. First few weeks have been a bit slow. Mud season, cold mornings, more mud. Was able to get most of my maintenance done, so thats good. They are doing a select cut down the road, and I was able to get a few tri axle loads from it. Nice processor wood, lots of red oak.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220402_132525.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1648985166)
that's the better part of the first two loads, I stole a bit from that pile already...
My wife is pretty darn understanding, most of the time. I probably could have got the 3 tri axle loads hidden away pretty good...but. My regular guyS I brought from had a 9 cord load they wanted to move before we posted roads, I'm a helpful guy, so I said bring them on over. Wouldn't ya know it, my buddy had 2, 6 wheeler loafs of pine for camp wood he had told me about a month before. He pulled in 5 min after the tractor trailer left, them an hour later with the next load, then again yesterday with a load of ash...
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220402_132440.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1648985168)
short logs, ash, the pine camp fire logs, filling up the door yard.
So, I spent most of yesterday refilling the log deck, sorting anything that needs hand cutting, and trying to make cutting time easier. I got my main pile thined out pretty good
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220402_132453.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1648985166)
and, I got the deck restocked too
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220402_132422.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1648985168)
So the plan is to run out 3 cords today, and go for a little atv ride after with my boy and a couple buddys. Need to make room, got another tri axle load coming next week, road postings end Mon ;D. It may be a long day, me and the boy went to Boston last night to a Bruins game, we had fun, but now we're bushed!
Oh, and I should probably bring the wife out to dinner before that next tri axle of wood shows up...just in case she is less understanding this time!
My wife starts to get testy as the truckloads of wood start to get piled closer and closer to the house😁
My friends ask how i get away with stuff in the yard. I tell them "I think she just gave up".
Its good to hear everyone getting ready to process some wood. I am lucking all my hedge logs are piled on another farm fifteen miles away so the wife doesn't have to look at them. I have a few empty trailers so I need to get processing some hedge. One of my buddy's that helps me process wood just called last night. He's working every other Saturdays now so we'll need to work around that and the other helper has been working a lot of seven day a week work weeks. Planting is going to start around here some were around the tenth of April so it will probably be like most years we'll get started when the summer heats on. Every spring I thing we should get some wood done and it never seems to happen. Hope ever one has a great spring.
Plugging away, 2 steps forward, 1 step back. Got most of my first cord done this am with minor hic-ups. Then, the log infeed was kind creeping forward. We shut everything down and got the oil squirter out to lube stuff up...yeah, that wasn't the problem. I will now use all my hydraulic knowledge to explain. The 2 allen screw cappy thing came off and the valve switcher thing got a bit gummed up
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220424_095553.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1650822794)
This machine has 3 hydraulic valves, pretty sure they are all the same, I took a pic of one that wasn't buried in the middle of the unit
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220424_095544.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1650822794)
I think, key word here is think, its a Walvoil SD4/1 valve, Made in Italy. The cappy, housing, spring hat thing is missing and another is cracked. I found a Walvoil part number for the replacement 5V08104000, but noting in my net search as to where to get said part???
We got the cord finished, and another done, but now I got to source parts this week, oil change on the truck, saw chains and supplys at the local shop, weld a broken bolt, oh and grease everything. I think it's time for a nap
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220424_112750.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1650822793)
loading logs for the days second cord
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220424_112754.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1650822793)
getting there on a cord of 22's.
I talked to 2 or 3 hydraulic shops, and no go, unless I pull the valve and bring it in, that's plan B. I called the NH supplier for Walvoil valves. The man was helpful, said he doesn't stock much of there stuff and there turn around time on parts is slow. He said he'd contact the factory and get back to me. 4 hrs later he called back. Yes, those parts are available, but the factory is a bit behind, it'd be about 52 weeks before I'd see the! A year, holy smokes! I did more internetting when I got home, found some on a website in Poland. They are ordered, hope international shipping is less than a year
If not, when they all come in, you can sell them on eBay or something! :D
Doc, I can be the Italian Hydro Valve cap specialist! If I didn't find the ones in Poland, I was gonna use a buddys lathes and try and make something. It's an old homeowners lathe, with subpar tooling, which coupled. with my subpar skill set would have resulted in a crude, but working cap...maybe
try curtis hyd in hooksett nh behind hk powersports bill has been 30 years doing this he may know.
number is 603 622 7331 good luck
drlewis, that was my first phone call. Even with part numbers they wanted to see the whole valve. I asked about bringing in just a cap (that is whay I need) nd they said best to bring the whole valve. If I didn't find an alternative, then that was my next step, just didn't want to make more work for myself taking things apart
My parts came in from across the pond! Went lrett easy, other than there inventory said they had 3 in stock but they only had 2 :(. That gets me back up and running but no spares, better than I was 2 weeks ago! Got 2 cord done yesterday, we got Mother's Day today and that trumps firewood! Going to the socialist state of Massachusetts I mean Commonwealth of Massachusetts, to see my 99year old Grandma. Hope all you Mom's have q great day
Wow! Just a little over a week from Poland. I had thought you might be down for a lot longer than that. Especially with what's going on in that part of the world. Glad that you are back up and running. :)
GranitestateMp Glad to hear you have your parts that quick. We have had our issues with parts out here on the farm also. I need to get to making some firewood also.
That was quick. Ordered some parts that came from Italy. That was like 8 weeks. Glad yours came quick.
The few times I've had to order parts from European vendors, I was surprised by how quickly they arrived. Around a week.
Thanks guys, it feels good to have the machine back to oem, vs my jerry rig repair! I tried reading the return address, the only word I could figure out was POLAND >:(
Haha yeah any European country that speaks a germanic language, I can usually pick up the sense of what is written. Polish, I'm out😂
If it matters, post a pic and I can ask my partner from Poland. I assume it is not important.
nah Doc, not important, just a hoot seeing all those letters and having ZERO clue what they mean! It felt like when I was a kid learning how to read, that was tough sledding for this fella
Crackin' and stackin' with the HP 37 Easy. T'is the season for bug netting too.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20220511_161816-firewood-bugs-jim-gina.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1652316665)
hahahaha, Jim, I was JUST THINKING, I'd better pack my bug netting for work today! Off to grade some camp roads. Tis the season is right!
Things are going along here in NH. Ran into some of those typical slowdowns. Had a couple adjuster bolts that tension the infeed belt break. Of course it happens on a Sunday when we were getting ready to rip 3 cord out! Some custom tapping, a bit of grinding and the magic welding machine fixed that up.
The next slowdown has been logs. A few guys around here have either cut back, or parked there stuff. On road is running around $6.31 a gallon at my last fill on the fuel jug. I don't fill my slip tank, it makes me sad when I do that, I stick to 5gal at a time now :-\. I was pretty good about stocking up on logs this winter and spring, but I only have so much room in my dooryard. I had about 25-30 cord of orders and only 15ish cord of logs kicking around. One of the areas long-standing families got me a 10 cord load on Sat, so.it took some stress off, and now I can keep going at 3-5 cord a week without stressing for a bit!
I've got 2 cord done and delivered so far this weekend, hope to get another 2 done Sun and reload the log deck. That'll also let me cross 2 customers off my to do.list, I like that!
We're gonna try and a do a nice atv ride tomorrow too. All work and no play, makes Matt a complete and total pain in the... well, that's what my wife tells me ;D
Here's a muffler mod I did on our 1x37Easy. When the wind blows from the south (50% of the time) it's no fun having the exhaust blown in the face, so I come up with this.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20220519_082312-firewood-hakkipilki-muffler-mod.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1653818422)
Also made a 5 way splitter axe for the 1x37 out of some QT100. It allows the ability of smaller pieces to just be pushed through and stay round.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20220508_084504-hakkipilki37easy-newsplitteraxe.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1653818796)
Here is the initial test run of that splitter axe design.
20220509 Splitter ax 5 way new design - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BALWDZyOJmE)
Jim, I like your muffler mode, but no flapper? I want everything to have a.flapper on top...which is weird cause nothing I own has a.flapper, I just want it to!
How do you like the Subaru 25hp engine? Do they still make them? It's got to be better than the Pred I've got.
Let me know how the 5 way holds up. With the limited diameter these machines will eat, that may be super handy. I've got a 6 way and hardly ever use it. The machine needs just a bit more power to run it, and the wings on it aren't long enough to make good splits.
Time to make big pieces of wood into little pieces of wood!
I've often thought of making a "T" or "Y" shaped one for a 3 way split for my splitter, I figure that it would do the 2 way splits and the 3 way then I would only have to recycle the top piece for 4 way but I bought a different splitter that has a tray that moves back and forth with the pusher to return your split pieces with a much taller wedge and it is much easier to re-split that it is not worth the trouble to make.
Granite your flapper comment made me laugh. Was recently replacing a muffler on a tractor had my 10 yo son helping me. I asked him what do you think do the old bologna cut on top so it comes out the side or straight up with a flapper?
Without a second of hesitation "flapper, gotta have a flapper the little tink tink tink noise is just COOL!!"
Needless to say it's got a flapper
Thought of the flapper, but it was easier to put two holes in the bottom section of the flex pipe for drainage.
The 5 way is holding up. But on some large green maple it will stall. However, I have the ram set to max speed (meaning lowest force). So maybe if I slowed the ram some, it might not stall.
Between Fri and Sun I got 1 cord of pine, and 4 cord of hardwood worked up and delivered. Man, I was wore out, looked forward to getting back to work so I could rest! Lot's of maintenance this week and reloading my log brow. Really hoping for a helper or two next weekend, it sure is nice to share the load
I hear ya on that. We did 2 cord Sunday, 2 cord Friday and 2 cord Thursday. Gotta do a little over 50 more by September. Dunno if its gonna be possible, we swore we'd not do firewood in July and August this year like we did last year. Yet, here we are in the same predicament.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20220619_125047-firewood-yard.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1655672451)
I like that no wood in July and August plan...but my math shows me booked out til late July. I do have a nice tent to put up over the processor when it gets hot. In the summer, we don't take atv rides after our Sunday wood processing, we switch up to taking a dip in the lake.
I say the same thing every year no firewood in July and August. But it seems like that's when we have time. Spring comes and we are planting. Then into spraying season. July and August my two helpers and myself have time but boy the heat. This year in late May planting was done, it was dry and I had logs ready so we worked six or seven cord and got it loaded in trailers. We did have a light winter here so I don't have as much to do. We will still be doing some in July and August but not as much as we normally would. Fall around here is busy with grain harvest and field work and dirt work then it usually gets wet and then comes the snow and cold. My wood is out in pastures so I don't want to tear the grass up so we don't do firewood in the winter.
Spring would be the ideal firewood season for me, but this spring was rain, rain, rain. So now I'm trying to make bundles around 90° heat. Mornings and evenings or even in the dark if necessary.
Fall, winter and spring for me. Rain, snow, wind...perfect weather so far as I am concerned. Even a warm day (20-25ºC) with clouds and a breeze, that's manageable. But straight up sunshine, yeah, no. I'll be inside thank you very much.
Sunday was a hot one here. We got two cord done, wanted to get three, but with 3 cuts left on the second cord the pto unit started acting up.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220627_180144.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1656373271)
That was the sign that we should call it a day! The belt gave us everything it had in it!
We did a short atv ride, even that was hot. A dip in the lake after deliverys was just what the doctor ordered
Hot & Cleanup
We are still in a heat wave, Sunday was another hot one. We got 2 cord done and into trailers but it was too much to.do.a third cord. Good news, my processor back orders are down to 20 cord. Bad news my 22in wood orders are around 15 cords, and thats more labor intensive!
Clean up
I haven't counted lately, but we've got to have run about 60 or so cord so far this year. After cooling off Sunday for a while, I took the grapple off and put the bucket on. cleaned the chaff, saw dust, chips, bark off the driveway, around the processor, and at the brow. The door yard is back to looking somewhat respectable! I've still got to reload the brow and move some logs but at least it's tiddy.
My son was.fighting some kind of allergy deal this weekend. I took today, Monday, off to hang with him and get him back to 100%. I made a honey do list and am trying to avoid the woodlot til at least the afternoon...wish me luck
Even when it's hot, you've got to keep that dooryard cleaned up!😁
The high humidity took the morning off, so we were able to get 3 cord done this am. My town had a parade celebrating its 300th year yesterday. The family alk participated, then we had fireworks last night, we're all a bit tired today. The boy decided he'd take a short ciesta during cord 2.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220814_103226.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1660499095)
I swear, the kid can sleep ANYWHERE! We had to wake him up shortly after the pic, I don't think Mum would like the 18in chunks falling on him after we move the trailer ahead.
Hope to get completely back on track this week. 13 more cord of processor wood on my to do list, another12 cord of oversized wood that is a bit more hands on to do also. If my notes are right, we've done 73 cord so far this year!
You don't know how I envy your son being able to nod off and catch a quick nap like that!
Hey Granitestate, nice looking wood.
The boy seems very relaxed in his job. :D But seriously, it's great that you have him working with you.
spike, I wish I could sleep like him too!
cutter, he does more "supervising" than helping. But, he knows if he wants to do the atv ride after weekend firewood, you got to put in some time!
A 13 cord load of log length just showed up, guess we won't be getting to the over sized logs this weekend, we'll keep making a dent in the processor wood orders. I think I can see the end of the order list in sight!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220819_171017.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1660944633)
That should keep you busy for a while. I hope the temps cool down a bit to make things more comfortable to work outside. What kind of wood is in that pile? I think I see oak but it's hard to tell with the sun on the wood on top.
We got a short break from heat, but it came back!
Cutter, while they were unloading, I saw red and white oak, maple, a few ash, some ugly cherry, and a few beech
Nice pile of wood! The log length stuff sure increases production, up here everything is 100" so it is a rare treat that I get some 16' wood. Can fit almost a cord of 16' on the deck, so I spend a lot less time in the skid steer.
barbender, a lot of it is 16, some are 18 and 20. If its not too big a diameter, I leave them 16, if its got too much, ah "character", them it gets cut down to 12ft
We did a strong 2 cord load this am ;D. These were all oversized logs that my buddy got from from tree jobs. We bucked them this spring and pre split them with the BluDiamond on the skid steer.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220820_111608.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661024083)<b
Today we did up a trailer load so my buddy could start stacking on his porch. A lot of the wood was already pretty dry. The top of the wood on this trailer is 2 cord, we went a bit over :D. Its not going down the road, just from the back pasture/woodlot to the house. I don't think DOT would approve.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220820_111530.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661024083)
@GRANITEstateMP (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=8262) I am having cutting issues with my HP1x37. You run across this with yours?
20220821 Hakki Pilke Easy37 cutting bar problem - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9K9j6bHlUo)
Try a different bar. If the rails aren't true or if the groove is hogged out the chain can lay over and cause that. Otherwise it could be a relief valve issue.
The bar is in decent shape so I will go with the other idea of relief valve.
Make sure your chain is the correct guage as well.
Try a different bar before you dig into the relief valve.
Quote from: barbender on August 21, 2022, 10:16:33 AM
Make sure your chain is the correct guage as well.
It is.
Quote from: Corley5 on August 21, 2022, 10:54:54 AM
Try a different bar before you dig into the relief valve.
Will be first call I make Monday morning. I have a bar here but the gauge is too small, it's 0.050 but the chains are 0.058.
Just got in from finishing off 3 cord.
@jimbarry (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=10037),
I don't have the hydraulic saw,.mine is the manual style. That being said, the first thing I do when I run into that type a deal is swear. That doesn't fix anything, but it's my go to ;D. I've found that its usually time for a bar. I run the Husky 16in, .325, .058 Bar. Old Husqvarna # 608000006, new # 596009066. I usually get a year out of a bar 75-90 cord, then they get retired.
As to the belt feed. Please hold, thinking
When my belt started doing the creep, it was a bit of cleaning and an adjustment. My handle is connected to a linkage on the back side of the machine. the linkage goes in a cover near where your 3pt arm would hook. the linkage has a spring on each side of a lever that is attached to a hydraulic valve. If you push up on the cut handle the lower spring compresses and the belt pulls logs in. With the cut handle at rest, when you push the left pedal down,the upper spring compresses and the belt goes in reverse. When I had my issues with the feed belt, the cap on the end of the hydraulic valve had shaken itself off and the spring inside the valve was sticking. A lot.of brakleen and penetrating oil later, it was freed up. New cap installed to keep it clean and adjusted the spring to adjust pickup point and belt speed. Photos to follow. Hope that helps!
Look out, the guy with the flip phone is taking pics!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220821_122208.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661098752)
This is with the access door swung open. These are the spring that you adjust. The metal in the middle is the arm that connects to the hydraulic valve. OH YEAH, the reason I know about this is I had one of the springs break at one point! A trip to the hardware store and a bit of adjusting and she was good to go!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220821_122214.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661098751)
The pivot that attaches to the saw ar and the linkage in this pic is another area that I've had a small issue. There is a roll pin that goes through the saw arm. Sometimes, it'll partially back out and the machine gets a bit strange, til you pinpoint the issue.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220821_122252_burst_01.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661098750)
This is the bottom of that hydraulic valve. That ref and gray cap is the part that fell off. I cleaned the heck out of it and lubed it all up and it was good to go again. On my machine all the valves have the same cap, I just stole one that wasn't always in sawdust til the replacement came in. I have the cap part # if you need t. Hope something in my rambling makes sense or helps! If you were closer, I'd lend ya a new bar, I keep 2 in stock, aka nailed up to a beam in the basement, just in case.
Matt
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on August 21, 2022, 12:14:28 PM
When my belt started doing the creep, it was a bit of cleaning and an adjustment. My handle is connected to a linkage on the back side of the machine. the linkage goes in a cover near where your 3pt arm would hook. the linkage has a spring on each side of a lever that is attached to a hydraulic valve. If you push up on the cut handle the lower spring compresses and the belt pulls logs in. With the cut handle at rest, when you push the left pedal down,the upper spring compresses and the belt goes in reverse. When I had my issues with the feed belt, the cap on the end of the hydraulic valve had shaken itself off and the spring inside the valve was sticking. A lot.of brakleen and penetrating oil later, it was freed up. New cap installed to keep it clean and adjusted the spring to adjust pickup point and belt speed. Photos to follow. Hope that helps!
Mine's all hydraulic, no spring mechanism like that.
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on August 21, 2022, 12:31:09 PM
Look out, the guy with the flip phone is taking pics!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220821_122208.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661098752)
This is with the access door swung open. These are the spring that you adjust. The metal in the middle is the arm that connects to the hydraulic valve. OH YEAH, the reason I know about this is I had one of the springs break at one point! A trip to the hardware store and a bit of adjusting and she was good to go!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220821_122214.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661098751)
The pivot that attaches to the saw ar and the linkage in this pic is another area that I've had a small issue. There is a roll pin that goes through the saw arm. Sometimes, it'll partially back out and the machine gets a bit strange, til you pinpoint the issue.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220821_122252_burst_01.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661098750)
This is the bottom of that hydraulic valve. That ref and gray cap is the part that fell off. I cleaned the heck out of it and lubed it all up and it was good to go again. On my machine all the valves have the same cap, I just stole one that wasn't always in sawdust til the replacement came in. I have the cap part # if you need t. Hope something in my rambling makes sense or helps! If you were closer, I'd lend ya a new bar, I keep 2 in stock, aka nailed up to a beam in the basement, just in case.
Matt
I always keep duplicates of consumables items too. But, the bar I had is the wrong gauge. This week I will pick up the right one. Hoping that fixes it.
Jim, I bet the bar will get the saw stall fixed right up. What makes the belt drive engage that might be making the belt creep?
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on August 21, 2022, 03:40:55 PM
Jim, I bet the bar will get the saw stall fixed right up. What makes the belt drive engage that might be making the belt creep?
That one joystick controls four movements. The joystick is in a T-shaped slot so it can either go right/left or down and back up. When the joystick is pulled downward to operate the bar cutting, the speed of the bar's descent is variable based on how far down the joystick is pulled. When the joystick bottoms out for the bar cutting motion, it has some wiggle to it in the left and right direction, maybe a couple millimetres. Whether that is factory, or wear over time, I am not sure. Moving the joystick to the left does not cause the in-feed belt to reverse. But, moved to the right, the in-feed belt does creep forward. It shouldn't of course because it causes the log to push against the bar while cutting.
Jim,
is the T handle connected to cables or hydraulics, or electric?
Any luck with a new bar?
Fully hydraulic.
Two bars on order should be here Wednesday. Cost CAD$154 delivered with taxes from the HakkiPilke dealer a couple hours from here.
Thats not a bad price at all. I think I gave $65 ea for the Husky bars from my local dealer, and they give me the "good guy discount"! We are the Live Free Or Die state, so no tax on bars...yet
Hope that gets ya back up and choppin.
Do you think its just a bit of sloop in the lever that is causing the belt creep? Is it worth tearing into it?
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on August 22, 2022, 05:42:03 PM
Thats not a bad price at all. I think I gave $65 ea for the Husky bars from my local dealer, and they give me the "good guy discount"! We are the Live Free Or Die state, so no tax on bars...yet
Hope that gets ya back up and choppin.
Do you think its just a bit of sloop in the lever that is causing the belt creep? Is it worth tearing into it?
No, I don't think it is. So long as the lever is pulled straight down, or down and to the left, the belt won't creep.
I am still suspect of the bar being the issue, although it does have mileage on it. You know yourself, you can cut into a log and sometimes the log will move, the bar will still cut through. It's jsut such a random problem that is a pain in the butt. We'll see how it goes.
@GRANITEstateMP (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=8262) have you ever changed the sprocket on yours yet? Looks like I will have to change mine soon.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20220821_085243-bar-sprocket.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661212488)
When I first got my processor (Dyna SC-14) it only had 38 hours on it, and it was 4 years old. It had been operated by the type of people that should not be allowed access machines, or tools. It would cut halfway through a log great, and then just stop. No load on it or anything, chain spinning at full speed. I finally replaced the chain, that's when I realized they had installed an .063 guage .404 chain on the .080 guage harvester bar. The chain could walk to the side enough that apparently the bar would snag on the face of the log. I would imagine a bar that the groove is worn or opened up would behave the same.
I have done the drive sprocket, and I'm probably gonna need to do it again in another year or so. It was a pain to jig it up into the press, but we got it one. Did the sprocket and, I think, 2 bearings? Those were over the counter at the local parts store.
Barbender, I like your line about people that shouldn't run equipment OR touch tools!
We have an official name for those folks: SNOPES; an acronym for Should Not Own Power Equipment. And yes, it rhymes with DOPE. :)
My Woodmizer also came from one of those people. Sometimes I stand there and wonder, "how could you even bend/break that?"
The incorrect guage chain was one mystery I had to figure out on the Dyna. Another one, for some reason the factory governor springs on thevKohler 38 had been switched with a hardware store spring. When you think something is factory original and can't figure out why the engine over revs and doesn't respond to any adjustments, let's just say it makes one want to pull hair out😬 Finally ordered OE springs, installed and all was well. What they put the hardware ones on for I have no idea. Don't even want to know🤦♂️
A SNOPE, I like that Spike!
Looks like I have to be more aggressive with redressing a bar next time based on videos I watched earlier.
New blade on. Working good now.
Jim, you're too far into this venture to still call your saw bar a blade😁
I'd be looking to see if the rails spread on your old bar.
If the groove is hogged out no amount of dressing to the rails will help :)
Quote from: barbender on August 27, 2022, 10:41:16 AM
Jim, you're too far into this venture to still call your saw bar a blade😁
I'd be looking to see if the rails spread on your old bar.
Brain is still picturing that machete picture I seen online a couple days ago made from an Oregon
bar. :) This weekends AI software update should fix my brain. I'll be good come Monday. ;)
Jim, good to hear that the new bar got ya back to makin wood! I looked at mine the other day, install date was May of 2021, so mine is about due for replacement.
We did a midweek cord this week trying to get caught up. Of course I got the whole works running, made 1 cut, then shredded the belt that runs my little PTO Unit. It was my last new belt, kicked myself for not reordering after the last failure. You never know what's gonna be out of stock or on eternal back order these days! 4 belts should be here Tues
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on August 27, 2022, 06:58:19 PM
Jim, good to hear that the new bar got ya back to makin wood! I looked at mine the other day, install date was May of 2021, so mine is about due for replacement.
We did a midweek cord this week trying to get caught up. Of course I got the whole works running, made 1 cut, then shredded the belt that runs my little PTO Unit. It was my last new belt, kicked myself for not reordering after the last failure. You never know what's gonna be out of stock or on eternal back order these days! 4 belts should be here Tues
Yes, spare parts are a necessity for sure. The master shut off switch went on the skidsteer today. No spare but I did have a spare 4 gauge cable long enough to hook the ground to the engine.
So the Hakkis use a regular chainsaw bar, they seem to hold up well? Frankly I'm amazed sometimes at the abuse the harvester saw bars will endure, they are pretty dang tough!
Quote from: barbender on August 27, 2022, 11:35:19 PM
So the Hakkis use a regular chainsaw bar, they seem to hold up well? Frankly I'm amazed sometimes at the abuse the harvester saw bars will endure, they are pretty dang tough!
I don't think harvester bars come in that size (16"). I see on Bailey's that they sell a 17", that might fit but its for 404 chain. I don't know if the sprocket would have to change out as well. MAybe HP designed it for off the common off the shelf parts.
Full length video, processing 2 cords with the HP 37Easy.
20220826 Firewood processing 14 inch long hardwood with a Hakki Pilke 1x37Easy. - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YeNyVAIGnM)
I truly admire your organized yard!
I wasn't suggesting you try to switch to a harvester bar. I'm just curious how the regular bars hold up, but it's kind of hard to compare if you haven't used both. On a CTL harvester, it isn't uncommon to snag your bar and bend it, and just extend it, set it down on a stump to bend it back, and party on!😁 I know on my Dyna processor, I've snagged the bar when feeding wood many times, never bent it. I've had wood make the chain half derail many times as well, never even chipped a rail.
There's a few mods I'd like to do to my Dyna machine. The first is a "hard stop" like the Hakki has, mine just has a dangling chain. The Euro machines have a lot more professional engineering go into them, that's for sure.
I'll get 500-600 face cords out of an Oregon harvester bar on my Block Buster. Usually grind the shoulders off once and by the time they could be ground again the groove is wallowed out and it's time for a new bar. I've considered a bar rail closer but after that many cords the bar doesn't owe me anything and it's time for a new one. I've only had one tip fail and I'm sure that was a manufacturing defect. I didn't get a 50 face cords out it. I've been running GB bars and I think they're lasting longer than the Oregons. Jury's still out on that. Oregon has stepped up their quality. For a time, the bars and especially the chains were soft. Not so much now. I've tried Orbit saw chains, made in China, they hold an edge pretty well, but the drivers are soft and the chains begin to lay over in the cut long before they should. Cost wise with the shipping on them they aren't worth it to me.
Yeah 500-600 face cords is nothing to complain about at all.
Quote from: barbender on August 28, 2022, 11:08:57 AM
There's a few mods I'd like to do to my Dyna machine. The first is a "hard stop" like the Hakki has, mine just has a dangling chain. The Euro machines have a lot more professional engineering go into them, that's for sure.
That hard stop also pivots away from the end of the block as the saw bar comes down so that the block doesn't get jammed up between the bar and the stop on its way down to the trough.
Quote from: barbender on August 28, 2022, 01:25:15 PM
Yeah 500-600 face cords is nothing to complain about at all.
Ditto. That's about what I got from this recent bar replacement.
Discovered a tear in the infeed belt today. What options might there be to fix this?
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/IMG_20220828_111025.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661709731)
Hmm...I don't know if you could patch it with he belt lacing that is used to join the belt ends? I've wondered myself, for when the day comes but that's as far as I've got with it.
The pivoting part of the hard stop is what I need to study to engineer something for mine.
Get a Flexco alligator staple tool and the appropriate staples and hinges. I've used a Clipper lacing tool as well but the Flexco system is superior.
I tried a couple caveman methods to pop out this sprocket shaft. Did more damage than achieve anything. I'm just smart enough to stop before digging this hole any deeper. Made a call to the HP dealer and emailed him pictures of what I am dealing with. He's never seen a factory shaft like that so he suspects a previous owner might of had something made up. Anyway, this unit is packed up and being shipped to the HP dealer for them to figure out. I've got other duties to attend to. laundry-smiley
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20220829_153218-sprocket.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661801912)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20220829_161241-sprocket.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661801913)
Quote from: barbender on August 28, 2022, 02:51:07 PM
The pivoting part of the hard stop is what I need to study to engineer something for mine.
you want a video?
Sure!
Quote from: barbender on August 29, 2022, 04:56:44 PM
Sure!
[color=var(--ytcp-call-to-action)]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyi4K_ZUTA4[/color] (https://youtu.be/zyi4K_ZUTA4)
That vid should of appeared as normal in the previous reply. Looks like someone is tweaking the FF software again. Just click the link to go to Youtube to see it.
Thanks Jim! That explains it very well, I'll have to see what I can come up with.
Can just link to it..
20220829 183911 Log stop mechanism on a Hakki Pilke Easy 1x37 - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyi4K_ZUTA4)
Quote from: beenthere on August 29, 2022, 08:23:48 PM
Can just link to it..
20220829 183911 Log stop mechanism on a Hakki Pilke Easy 1x37 - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyi4K_ZUTA4)
I tried that. Didn't work at the time.
I was amazed when I added the hard stop to my processor how much cycle time was saved.
Mine hinges downward as shown and works well overall.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/44322/IMG_1837~0.JPG?easyrotate_cache=1661826904)
Quote from: jimbarry on August 28, 2022, 02:02:19 PM
Discovered a tear in the infeed belt today. What options might there be to fix this?
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/IMG_20220828_111025.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661709731)
Jim, I just ordered a new belt from an outfit in Maine. Last one I got from them made 5 yrs, and is still running, but spotty. I'll get them name in a bit, it was $174 shipped to my door
Just got a chance to look at and pull the invoice rom my new. belt. I haven't installed it yet, but like I said it's the second one I've got from them. PRC Industrial in Portland Maine. Looks like its a PRCB blk roughtop 12 conveyor belt, 2ply, 150 piw, slit to 8" wide. Lace W/RS15'0" NFL. Hope that helps
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20220830_174353.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1661896059)
Cutting plenty of "northern walnut" this morning :)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20220915_110743-firewood-maple.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1663255829)
Butternut? What is it?
Did 8 crates today. Gonna have to sharpen the chains I guess, got a resupply.
20220915 Firewood Log Delivery - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JObLtFpmOcs)
I should've known Jim. Northern Canadians have a wide range of hardwood species to choose from, maple and birch😁
We've been plugging away, doing a bit less woid on Sundays (our go to day) but trying for 1 or 2 on Saturday s. We had a couple country fairs come up that slowed production, but helped morale!
Yesterday we did 3 cord of the oversized wood, sorry no pics, got 1 more customers order finished. We did 2 cord of processor wood today. The deck is dwindling down
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20221009_082344.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1665335440)
This was the start of the day. thats the main pieces of my new woodshed in the foreground.
The first cord was that customers 5th of the year and finished him up. The second cord, our 107th on the year, will finish off that customers order, it was her 2nd cord
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20221009_101041.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1665335440)
It was a great fall day to work up wood. We went and did a good atv ride after, had a great race in an old pasture! Now I'm not sure if I should deliver the wood, or take a nap ;D
Moved 4 more cords this weekend, I think that puts us at 117 for the year. I've got 6 more cord on my cut list, I really don't mind if we don't get anymore orders. I'm ready to do some maintenance, and build up a new wood shed or two (aka improvements)
I haven't kept very close track of how many cords I've done this year. 60 or 70 at least. In fact I barely have any logs left, about 8 cords. Time to get more coming, but I've been letting things clear out so I can clean up and organize a bit.
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on October 30, 2022, 04:02:43 PM
Moved 4 more cords this weekend, I think that puts us at 117 for the year. I've got 6 more cord on my cut list, I really don't mind if we don't get anymore orders. I'm ready to do some maintenance, and build up a new wood shed or two (aka improvements)
We're on par for production for the year. And the to do list.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20221030_164558-firewood-yard.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667210986)
Quote from: barbender on October 30, 2022, 08:50:56 PM
... In fact I barely have any logs left, about 8 cords. Time to get more coming, but I've been letting things clear out so I can clean up and organize a bit.
Yep, same here too. Did clean up this weekend.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20221030_120312-firewood-smoked.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667211101)
Plans derailed a couple times today. Chain kept falling off on the big sticks when a piece would drop in the chute. I think what might have been happening is the block of wood bounces back up a little bit and touches the chain, knocking it off. Only happens with the large chunks if I end the cut hard and fast and don't pull up the bar quick enough. If I slow down near the end of the cutting the block of wood drops a little slower and less likely to bounce back up.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20221103_151140-hakki-pilke-easy37-chain-derailed.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667522041)
I've noticed big blocks bounce back up and hit the chain on my Dynan too- but it's never knocked the chain loose.
We have the same thing happen on our HockeyPuck as Jim is seeing. It's always the larger rounds that are near max diameter. When they fall and bounce a bit, they'll sometimes knock the chain off. Good news is those bigger diameter pieces make a lot of firewood!
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on November 04, 2022, 06:31:37 AM
We have the same thing happen on our HockeyPuck as Jim is seeing. It's always the larger rounds that are near max diameter. When they fall and bounce a bit, they'll sometimes knock the chain off. Good news is those bigger diameter pieces make a lot of firewood!
Sure does. Makes for nice looking stacks too.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20221104_0928559-firewood-crates-2.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667565606)
A load of near max size on the log deck. This is about 1/2 cord when split and stacked.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20221104_092947-firewood-crates-processor-log-deck-Hakki-Pilke-Easy37.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667565528)
Smaller logs would be about the same pile onthe log deck but would require 2-3 times as many cuts.
Fall is in full swing here in NH, except the whole temperature part of it, it was 70 yesterday afternoon!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20221105_150708.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667736730)
Every load of firewood comes with some free, colorful leaves, free of charge! I did a bunch of yardwork and honey-do stuff around the house, then went to process the last cord of an 8 cord order.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20221105_150726.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667736729)
First few logs went great, I was working alone on the processor, my son checking in on me and emptying the sawdust bucket and wheelbarrow. Then I started getting a bit of a hickup in the cutting mechanism. My machine is all manual, so I checked the easy stuff, made a few tweaks, got it better, but not 100%. A bit more diag, looks like some linkage parts that haven't shown much wear in the previous 6 years are showing some. We've got 2 more to run off the machine today, and I'm hoping too go into a good maintenance mode for a bit after that. When its time to process, I want to process, not tinker! Took me 2hrs to complete the cord. It should have been 1hr,20min working by myself at a leisurely pace. Hope for better today
Same kind of day here. Frustrated with the hydraulic downward motion of the saw bar. It can do 5-6 slices no problem. Next one, stops half way and really struggles to go further. Lots of back and forth with the joystick, and/or "rocking the log". Drastic measures while applying downward cutting pressure. Might have to deal with it for 1-3 cuts, then its ok for a couple logs. Then it starts all over. The time fussing, we could have done 2 or more logs. Debating on selling the HP.
Today we managed 256 cu ft of 14" long pieces with the two of us. Went from this pile
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20221105_080309-medium-saw-logs-1_45-per-inch-diameter.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667765629)
to stacked in 9 crates
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20221106_144148-firewood-2-cord-14inch.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667765628)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20221106_144028-firewood-2-cord-14inch.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1667765628)
Jim, is the bar hanging up in the cut?
Yes it is. New bar, new chain, new belts, new bearings. The only thing not replaced is the hydraulic piston that drives the downward pressure.
Same as last time.
20220821 Hakki Pilke Easy37 cutting bar problem - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9K9j6bHlUo)
well, someone should be able to figure this out. not me... :) but it looks like you have plenty of hydraulic pressure and flow to other functions like the chain motor and the ram. maybe worn linkages getting in a jam or needed adjustment. is there anything the bar assembly can be hitting on or in need of lubrication. You kept letting off and hitting it again and it seemed to jump a bit and then stop moving down. if you just held it in place, does it do little jerks down to complete the cut? any associated noise when it does that? can you put a gage in line with that cylinder? cylinder or valve bypassing?
I have to wonder if something in the saw pivot is worn and allowing things to shift a touch.
I know exactly how aggravating this stuff can be. While my firewood processor is running great, my sawmill engine is still giving me fits. I have what I believe to be a fuel issue. Either sucking air somewhere or some sort of restriction. I have changed about everything. New tank, eliminated the quick couplers WM puts on the tank as that can be an air admittance spot. New water separator base and filter. New fuel lines. I even tried doubling up with an electric fuel pump pushing fuel to the mechanical lift pump (also new🤦♂️). I have ran diesel equipment my entire adult life and have never had something baffle me like this. All of that said, I feel your pain!
Quote from: doc henderson on November 06, 2022, 09:14:49 PM
well, someone should be able to figure this out. not me... :) but it looks like you have plenty of hydraulic pressure and flow to other functions like the chain motor and the ram. maybe worn linkages getting in a jam or needed adjustment. is there anything the bar assembly can be hitting on or in need of lubrication.
No.
You kept letting off and hitting it again and it seemed to jump a bit and then stop moving down. if you just held it in place, does it do little jerks down to complete the cut?
I've noticed that too. But it doesn't do it all the time. And when it jump to continue the downward motion, its for a mere fraction of an inch then stops again.
any associated noise when it does that?
No.
can you put a gage in line with that cylinder? cylinder or valve bypassing?
Maybe. I'm not that smart with such diagnosing and I don't have gauges to do that.
Quote from: barbender on November 06, 2022, 10:56:52 PM
I have to wonder if something in the saw pivot is worn and allowing things to shift a touch.
That's why I sent the saw pivot back to the dealer about at the time of that video to have them take it all apart and replace the shaft, sprocket and bearings.
I know exactly how aggravating this stuff can be. While my firewood processor is running great, my sawmill engine is still giving me fits. I have what I believe to be a fuel issue.
Yes, water in the gas is the issue we have. We keep a tarp strapped over the gas tank, made the difference. But if heavy rain is forecast we cover the air filter on the engine too. Water tends to make its way into the filter and down into the carb.
Either sucking air somewhere or some sort of restriction. I have changed about everything. New tank, eliminated the quick couplers WM puts on the tank as that can be an air admittance spot. New water separator base and filter. New fuel lines. I even tried doubling up with an electric fuel pump pushing fuel to the mechanical lift pump (also new🤦♂️). I have ran diesel equipment my entire adult life and have never had something baffle me like this. All of that said, I feel your pain!
well, the discussion may prompt someone who knows. Does HP have a service department that could watch this video? does it do it in the first of the cut, or only in the second half of the cut?
I'm thinking the key is the feed belt movement. It seems there is some slop or wear in either the valve handle, body or linkages and some times when you cut, the belt creeps too, putting side pressure on the bar. The side pressure is small, not enough to bend the bar, but enough to jam it in the cut. Lift off the handle and it eases, press down again and it returns. Hence why the small incremental progress.
Other times, you are positioned a little different, and when you pull the cut lever, there is no belt creep, and it behaves normally.
It may be as simple as loosening a few screws and centering the valve handle to the slot..
That and/or a hydraulic issue with what ever limits the down pressure on the bar.
Perhaps remove the chain so you can manipulate the bar to see if it binds with a bit of side pressure and how much resistance it takes to stop it. Of coarse use a stick for this not your hand.
All your hardware is new. I'd say something in the hydraulic controls isn't right. Debris in the relief valve? Maybe? Oil by passing somewhere in the control valve itself. Is it worse when the machine is cold or hot or doesn't that make a difference? Maybe the saw cylinder is bypassing oil internally?
Quote from: doc henderson on November 07, 2022, 07:55:26 AM
well, the discussion may prompt someone who knows. Does HP have a service department that could watch this video? does it do it in the first of the cut, or only in the second half of the cut?
HP will only redirect to local dealer. At the time of the last video I sent it to the local dealer but they did not reply. I had to call them and them said to replace bar, chain and bearings, which I did. The stalling can occur at any cut; could be first, second or last. Generally it starts to stall between half way or 2/3rd way though.
Quote from: Big_eddy on November 07, 2022, 07:56:56 AM
I'm thinking the key is the feed belt movement. It seems there is some slop or wear in either the valve handle, body or linkages and some times when you cut, the belt creeps too, putting side pressure on the bar. The side pressure is small, not enough to bend the bar, but enough to jam it in the cut. Lift off the handle and it eases, press down again and it returns. Hence why the small incremental progress.
Other times, you are positioned a little different, and when you pull the cut lever, there is no belt creep, and it behaves normally.
It may be as simple as loosening a few screws and centering the valve handle to the slot..
I have detected forward belt creep and can easily reproduce it. When we noticed that occuring we stopped the habit of pulling down and to the right with the joystick. We've opted for down and to the left as I have not noticed any reverse creep in that position. I've even tried to just pull straight down, stalling still occurs randomly.
I will take a look to see if some repositioning is possible. Thanks for the idea.
I will say this though regarding the least bit of side pressure can affect the downward cutting. There have been plenty of times, like when making the last cut of a log, that the cut will move quite a bit due to any sort of reason and the bar will power through without stalling. Not even notice or care the log has moved.
Quote from: Hilltop366 on November 07, 2022, 08:20:53 AM
That and/or a hydraulic issue with what ever limits the down pressure on the bar.
Perhaps remove the chain so you can manipulate the bar to see if it binds with a bit of side pressure and how much resistance it takes to stop it. Of coarse use a stick for this not your hand.
Good idea.
Quote from: Corley5 on November 07, 2022, 09:13:29 AM
All your hardware is new. I'd say something in the hydraulic controls isn't right. Debris in the relief valve? Maybe? Oil by passing somewhere in the control valve itself. Is it worse when the machine is cold or hot or doesn't that make a difference? Maybe the saw cylinder is bypassing oil internally?
Doesn't matter whether it's cold or warm.
I will say this. It doesn't occur every day, maybe 2 out of 3 days. And for a while it used to be on the first cut, then it would be ok for the rest of that log (4 more cuts). That's why I was thinking something must be cycling through and causing the stall. But wouldn't debris in the fluid be filtered out?
No, not if it is in a cylinder. I've seen debris wreak havoc on log processor heads when it gets in the valving.
Jim, I had a similar problem with my rig, but mine is a manual down pressure. I found that a cap on one of my hydraulic valves had loosened up and some saw dust had gunked it up. some breakleen, blow gun, and a bit if penetrating oil, and a T4 socket got me back in business
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on November 07, 2022, 06:54:38 PM
Jim, I had a similar problem with my rig, but mine is a manual down pressure. I found that a cap on one of my hydraulic valves had loosened up and some saw dust had gunked it up. some breakleen, blow gun, and a bit if penetrating oil, and a T4 socket got me back in business
Which valve?
Ive had it happen to two valves. the one that advances and backs out the log, and the one that controls the splitter going in and out. Checking those little T4 alan heads is now part of my spring/fall maintenance
I called the dealer this morning. He's dead set on it being a bar/chain issue. Told me to flip the bar and use the same chain. If the issue sorts itself out, the bar was worn on the problem side. If the issue persists, it's the chain. He said that when sharpening, even 1/2 a degree difference from the left and right side is enough to cause an issue. Well, we will see.
I spoke with a Tajfun dealer this morning on a separate thing and we got to talking about the issue I am having with the Pilke. He said a similar problem occurs with the RCA units by Tajfun. Might get 10 cords cut and the bar will start to stall (about the same time we have the stall issue using Oregon bars). They tell the customers to switch to Cannon bars, which they did, and now can breeze through 30 cord before noticing any bar wear.
That makes sense to me. If over time the bar groove has worn into a V shape rather than a U shape, the chain can tilt within the groove and that will halt downward progress of the chain. Dressing the rails of the bar can help, but closing the bar groove is the real fix. This is the same condition that causes a chainsaw to make banana cuts, but in the case of the processor, both the bar and log are fixed, so no way for the cut to wander. Uneven filing or angles can exacerbate the problem.
Lots of posts and you-tubes on closing up a bar groove. I use the hammer method myself. A bar closer is more precise but I haven't felt the need to buy one - yet.
Quote from: Big_eddy on November 08, 2022, 10:55:53 AM
That makes sense to me. If over time the bar groove has worn into a V shape rather than a U shape, the chain can tilt within the groove and that will halt downward progress of the chain. Dressing the rails of the bar can help, but closing the bar groove is the real fix. This is the same condition that causes a chainsaw to make banana cuts, but in the case of the processor, both the bar and log are fixed, so no way for the cut to wander. Uneven filing or angles can exacerbate the problem.
Lots of posts and you-tubes on closing up a bar groove. I use the hammer method myself. A bar closer is more precise but I haven't felt the need to buy one - yet.
Are you measuring the overall thickness of the bar or the inside gap when truing up a bar, or both?
I hope it is that simple but strange to go several days with no problems and also usually get through the first half of the log. maybe it is a combo of the conveyor creep and the B&C
I "measure" the inside gap by sliding a short section of chain back and forth. I keep tapping as long as it still seems sloppy. If any section starts to get tight, then I wedge it back open a tad with the scrench. It's not overly scientific, but seems to work for me. My experience is that more smaller taps works better than fewer harder whacks.
Put a new bar and chain on and see if it makes a difference.
I've had good luck with the Husqvarna bars, on average We get 80ish cord out of one before replacement. I have all my chains sharpened at a local saw shop that uses a fancy auto sharpener, it helps keep all the teeth same length. We average around 7- 8 cords between sharpenings. They charge $8 a loop to sharpen, and I pass that along to the customer. My machine and my two small saws all run the same chain, so I usually have 10 or 12 loops on saws and machine, ready as spares, and at the shop
I would try a new bar and chain too. It's the cheapest and most painless part to r and r.
When I bought my Dyna and the original owner had replaced the .80 gauge harvester chain with a .063 gauge chainsaw chain. I picked it up from an auction yard sight unseen so I've never talked to the owner, and had no way of knowing or reason to think it had an incorrect chain on it. The son of a gun cut exactly like you are describing. Chain is sharp, it is ripping right through the wood and it would just stop. No load on the engine or anything. It was driving me NUTS!! Finally, in desperation I ordered a new bar and chain (even though I assumed there was nothing wrong with the original, the machine only had 35 hours on it) It wasn't until I pulled the OE bar and chain off I realized that the chain was too narrow. Problem solved🤷♂️
Anyways I may sound like a broken record, but it doesn't take much off balance wear or a widened bar groove for funny stuff to start happening.
Quick update.
All regular customers are stocked up. We are just working up oversized wood now, and getting our ducks together to build a woodshed or two...on a budget.
Last weekend was our towns annual Holiday Parade. When we started participating in it 25ish years ago, it was the Christmas Parade. We have taken about 6 years off, work obligations, kids, change of parade time vs cows to milk, just wasn't in the cards. This year the kids are old enough, and the farm had someone to help with milking, so we did the parade. Despite mother nature dropping a bit of precipitation, all went well. I didn't get many pics... sorry :(
This is my new ride for this winter
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20221203_094501.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1670684122)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20221203_094452.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1670684122)
and, one of the 3 or so pieces the farm put into the parade
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20221203_094503.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1670684121)
I really should have got more pics, but the parade started at our Highway Barn and I was kinda busy helping here and there...and visiting
Enjoy the new ride! From what it's looking like so far here in the Northeast, you're going to be spending a lot of time in that truck. :)
Firewood biz down this way is going full bore. Prices per cord have inched up to about a $300 average; more for longer delivery. With the exception of a couple species, the log market is pretty soft right now. The result on the firewood side is that loggers are more than happy to feed the processor guys as much as they want. Log loads are $1000+ around here.
Log loads here are running way north of $2K.
20 cords of 100" is $2,000-$2,200 depending on the supplier. There's a large DNR hardwood sale 3 miles from me that I started getting train loads from Wednesday for $2,000.00. Going to stock up.
$2K loads here are 14-16 cord.
I guess "load" can mean different things in different areas, huh? :)
Around here, the log loads I'm talking about are 9-10 cord. Prices avg $1200, going up with distance traveled. Local and "who ya know" can still be had for $1000.
A typical load here is 12 cords. $100 a cord or so, depending on species.
Spike, I think you jinxed me! Got 30+ hrs since Thurs, mostly in that truck.
We have been right around the $300 a cord of green, cut and split, delivered for most of the fall. All new customers were at that price, and come spring it looms like I'll be above that.
Last spring I was around $100-110 a cord for processor type logs. Summer to fall has been $125. Starting next load it'll be $140 a cord. Come to think of it, that's what I used to charge for a cord of pine campwood...
I know I could find log length cheaper, but I have a good relationship with my supplier and when I venture to other outfits, I usually end up with more rejects, or more logs to do by hand. In the end, I'll pay that little more up front and have less waste or easier work.
. got 4 tri axles last week 1100. a load i ordered 10 more before price is higher try too get another 10 in before march just need more space yard will be full.
I'm jealous of you folks and the prices that you're getting logs for. Where I live (western, central NH ) the prices are running over $200 a log truck cord. Also I was told by a friend with a processor that the loggers who are working around here have or are buying processors and some will not even sell loads at all. I know loads seem really tough to get since this past spring for some reason. All the best to you folks who have it available and cheap. Enjoy it while it lasts.
i am in nh to in candia i get nice wood for my machine from him i got 15 loads this summer and he was very fair with the price but he did go up a 100.00 a load too cover fuel .buy from another guy who gets tree company wood got about 10 loads from him cheaper but have too pre spilt a lot of it with cone takes longer to get orders out.
In this area, the loggers usually claim 14-16 cords on a truck. When it's all cut and split, we find it to be closer to 12-13 delivered to customers. Some of the difference is logs versus splits, some is rot and scrap. And some is probably our generosity loading the trailer. We'd much rather be a little over than anything under.
You'll always lose volume going from logs to cut and split. Logs just don't stack as tightly as cut and split firewood.
12%. We've calculated time and time again that it take 1.12 cords of logs to make 1 cord (16" long pieces, split and stack to make 128 cu ft).
With a 16 cord truck of logs, we produce 14.25 cords of split firewood.
Long winter with way to many 3in snow storms that took 20hrs from start to finish...I have had enough time behind the wheel of a plow truck for a while!
Just getting going on wood stuff, I am a bit behind this year but my main job kinda got the best of me. I added to the equipment roster, picked up this 20fy conveyor in VT last week. It's a 2018, but looks brand new
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20230403_175034.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1680559758)
not 100% sure if I'm gonna take the one off the processor and add this, or just use this in conjunction with the splitter when we're doing over sized wood
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20230403_175045.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1680559758)
Nice conveyor @GRANITEstateMP (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=8262)
Our Easy37 sprung a leak last week. Cracks in the hose.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20230323-leak_in_processor.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1680567832)
Got a new one made up at a local hydraulic shop. Come to $50 with tax.
I've got a conveyor like that. Mine's 24' and hydraulic drive. I got it slightly used in Vermont. Towed it home to N. Michigan. Been a really good machine. I rebuilt the top end a year ago. The bottom needs attention this season. I'm on my second belt. It's loaded a LOT of wood.
Jim, I have about $500 worth of tune up parts to put on the Hakki. Mostly factory stuff to replace some worn out parts underneath that do the auto cycling. I need a mild, non rain day to get that together, maybe tomorrow after work?
Corley, I wanted a hydraulic 24ft...but my budget said used 20ft belt drive! Did you flat tow the conveyor from VT home? I stole my brother in laws gooseneck and trailered it from VT to NH, 2.5hrs and I could do hihhway speed, so I was happy. Now the side roads...I was getting near the speed limits on those!
GranitestateMP Looks like you found a nice conveyor. I run a old gravel belt conveyor that is hyd drive at the top. Its on eight bolt wheels with 16 inch tires. I flat towed it home five hundred miles and a couple hundred on a interstate. I am lucky to have shed space so I keep it inside.
Flat towed. Put a set of magnetic trailer lights on it, a red flag for good measure, and picked up a spare tire just in case. Pulled great 8)
Good to see this thread back up. I had a feeling it was a winter/plowing reason behind it being inactive the last couple months. :)
spike, also a little bit lazy too ;D
I'm finally getting into gear! Maintenance time for the processor. Got a.few.new parts over the off season, time to put them on. I forgot to order new belts, and managed to break to armrest on my Kubota, but at least the processor is up and going.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20230408_133218.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1680985161)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20230408_134925.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1680985160)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20230408_134841.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1680985161)
As you can see, it was time for some love. My machine has no electronics, anything that happens "automatically" has to hit a stop, flip a lever, or trip a hydraulic arm. So once stuff gets really worn the machine will do some hookie stuff🤔. I ran a couple short logs through and all was working good, so now I'm gonna confirm that I can get onto a couple lawns before I bury my rig trying, and order belts!
New parts, sweet :)
I had to put a new bar on yesterday. Running into that problem again of the bar only wanting to cut 3/4 way through then stalling. Problem solved with the new bar. Then one of the hoses come loose and sprung a leak, lost a couple quarts of fluid. Never a dull moment. :)
Jim, I've had the best luck with the heavy husky bars on the processor. No hose leaks today, but a couple quick connects are.dripping, guess thats one way to keep the fluid fresh!
Tell me more about these husky bars. The Oregon bars I am using barely make it through 30-40 cords.
Jim,
I will get the Husky number off the new spare bar in the basement tonight!
old Husqvarna #608000006
new Husqvarna #596009066
66dl .058 .325
Maybe someone like Spike60 can chime in as to the why, but this Husqvarna bar is a bit more spendy, but holds up good on the processor. I tried a couple others over the years but these seem to last better
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on April 10, 2023, 06:31:33 PM
old Husqvarna #608000006
new Husqvarna #596009066
66dl .058 .325
I'l have to double check but I thought the bar had to be 15 inch? This web site (https://www.husqvparts.com/596009066-Husqvarna-16-Bar-Ht258-66-325-058-OEM/) shows it has 16". I couldn't find it on AMZ.
mine runs the 16in, which works out great, I have 2 saws that run the same chain so I keep plenty of loops in stock
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on April 10, 2023, 06:31:33 PM
old Husqvarna #608000006
new Husqvarna #596009066
66dl .058 .325
Maybe someone like Spike60 can chime in as to the why, but this Husqvarna bar is a bit more spendy, but holds up good on the processor. I tried a couple others over the years but these seem to last better
I'm surprised your processors use 0.325 chains.
A lot of the Euro processors run .325 bar and chain
Big eddy, it's a compact euro style machine, like barbender said. I can fold it up and move it on the 3pt arms of my tractor, but I leave it in 1 spot 95% of the time and run it off a.portable pto unit instead
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/IMG_20210620_074123.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1624403508)
its not a super high production machine, but it gets the job done and didn't come with a super high production price tag ;D
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/18262/DOZER_315.JPG?easyrotate_cache=1428687968)
And as it turns out, I think you guys are getting nearly the same bar and chain life with that .325 chain. It takes a heck of a lot HP to pull .325 vs .404 harvester chain!
This is the bar I use.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20210907_092734-hakkipilki-16inchbar.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1681256648)
And the engine I run it with is a Subaru 25hp
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20220519_082312-firewood-hakkipilki-muffler-mod~1.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1681256686)
Jim, have you tried one of the Pferd bar dressing files on your bars? It is a plastic jig with a mill file, it holds the file at 90° to the side of the bar to square the rails. It's cheap enough, around $30 I think, so it's worth a shot.
You guys ever look into converting to harvestor bars, sprockets, and chains?
I wonder how a Cannon bar would hold up, I hear good things but have never tried one. Made in Canada.
Quote from: barbender on April 11, 2023, 07:48:17 PM
Jim, have you tried one of the Pferd bar dressing files on your bars? It is a plastic jig with a mill file, it holds the file at 90° to the side of the bar to square the rails. It's cheap enough, around $30 I think, so it's worth a shot.
No I have not. Will look into it.
Quote from: Hilltop366 on April 11, 2023, 07:50:56 PM
I wonder how a Cannon bar would hold up, I hear good things but have never tried one. Made in Canada.
Likely would hold up very well. Top quality stuff.
I am still thinking its not the bar. Put a new bar on the other day and still having the same issue of stalling mid cut. Not happening as often, but enough to be a pain in the butt.
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on April 10, 2023, 06:31:33 PM
old Husqvarna #608000006
new Husqvarna #596009066
66dl .058 .325
Maybe someone like Spike60 can chime in as to the why, but this Husqvarna bar is a bit more spendy, but holds up good on the processor. I tried a couple others over the years but these seem to last better
Not sure without looking up each bar, but for the most part 608 part numbers were supplied by Oregon, and 596 bars are made by Husky themselves. The Husky bars did noticeably out last the Oregon power match bars they replaced.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20230412_150934.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1681329615)
While I was on a road trip this morning the boss decided to go out and process some wood. She got into her second cut and it stopped cutting. She shut it all down and waited until I got home. Seems the belt that drives the chainsaw blade shredded and in doing so, caused the 3 drive belts to turn over in their slots. All fixed now but I can think of better ways to spend an hour.
I also adjusted the drop down speed of the chainsaw blade to as slow as I could get it it to go. I backed out the adjuster as far as it could. Still too fast for my liking but we'll see what results from the next batch of processing firewood.
Problem is once those belts get a twist like that, they want to do it again.
Quote from: Corley5 on April 11, 2023, 07:50:01 PM
You guys ever look into converting to harvestor bars, sprockets, and chains?
Corley,
Do they make a 16in harvester bar? I don't know if my rig has the power/umph to pull a .404 chain !
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on April 12, 2023, 07:50:04 PM
Quote from: Corley5 on April 11, 2023, 07:50:01 PM
You guys ever look into converting to harvestor bars, sprockets, and chains?
Corley,
Do they make a 16in harvester bar? I don't know if my rig has the power/umph to pull a .404 chain !
Inquiring minds want to know...why would you want to use a chain that has a wider kerf?
My 14-12 Block Buster runs 404 harvester chain, 74 driver loops on 64 cm Oregon bars powered by a GX670 Honda 24hp. I get 500-600 16" face cords out of a bar with one rail dressing. Chain mileage varies. No lack of hp. Good service life. Check Oregon's website for available bars.
Quote from: jimbarry on April 13, 2023, 05:43:06 AM
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on April 12, 2023, 07:50:04 PM
Quote from: Corley5 on April 11, 2023, 07:50:01 PM
You guys ever look into converting to harvestor bars, sprockets, and chains?
Corley,
Do they make a 16in harvester bar? I don't know if my rig has the power/umph to pull a .404 chain !
Inquiring minds want to know...why would you want to use a chain that has a wider kerf?
Harvester chain run 50 to 60 thousands of a inch so you get around twice as much depth of cut per pass of a tooth.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20230413_142520-hakki-pilke-stalled-cutting-new-bar-1_5cord_put_through.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1681431540)
Well, that new blade and chain lasted all of 1.5 cord before it started acting up again. The blade gets about to this place in its cutting stroke (in this case a 9 inch diameter) and the downward motion stalls. It takes several up/down strokes to cut through, as you can see by the kerf lines.
Chain still turning but not cutting?
Jim, are you intentionally bumping the log a bit on the feed to get through it, or is the saw leaving the offset marks on its own? Are you sure every tooth is still sharp on your chain? My processor was doing this the other night, and only a couple of teeth on one side were dull. I must've hit some dirt. The saw was still throwing nice big chips, and cutting great, but it would still hang up every time it got a little over halfway through the cut. With the yellow painted harvester bar, I can see the point where it is rubbing on the log because it leaves yellow paint there. That would be on the side closest to the saw. Maybe try making a streak with a grease marker on each side and you can see if yours is rubbing somewhere.
@jimbarry (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=10037)
I'm running a Dyna for a friend-same model as @barbender (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=1286) so this may not help.
Owner was just telling me yesterday about very same issue that started on machines 3rd year, maybe 400 cords or so.
He had tried new bars, chains, checking and changing reliefs on bar drop and (I think) chain speed.
He finally found the relief valve for the splitter was causing the issue.
The hydraulics apparantly run through this valve first, so any issue there will cause issues "down stream".
Again, maybe yours is set up differently, but I wanted to bring it to your attention.
Quote from: leeroyjd on April 14, 2023, 04:12:12 AM
@jimbarry (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=10037)
I'm running a Dyna for a friend-same model as @barbender (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=1286) so this may not help.
Owner was just telling me yesterday about very same issue that started on machines 3rd year, maybe 400 cords or so.
He had tried new bars, chains, checking and changing reliefs on bar drop and (I think) chain speed.
He finally found the relief valve for the splitter was causing the issue.
The hydraulics apparantly run through this valve first, so any issue there will cause issues "down stream".
Again, maybe yours is set up differently, but I wanted to bring it to your attention.
Thanks, I'll look into that.
Quote from: Hilltop366 on April 13, 2023, 08:29:16 PM
Chain still turning but not cutting?
Chain turning ok, it just will not proceed through the cut.
Quote from: barbender on April 13, 2023, 09:35:11 PM
Jim, are you intentionally bumping the log a bit on the feed to get through it, or is the saw leaving the offset marks on its own? Are you sure every tooth is still sharp on your chain? My processor was doing this the other night, and only a couple of teeth on one side were dull. I must've hit some dirt. The saw was still throwing nice big chips, and cutting great, but it would still hang up every time it got a little over halfway through the cut. With the yellow painted harvester bar, I can see the point where it is rubbing on the log because it leaves yellow paint there. That would be on the side closest to the saw. Maybe try making a streak with a grease marker on each side and you can see if yours is rubbing somewhere.
@barbender (https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php?action=profile;u=1286) Same as this video I posted 7 months ago.
20220821 Hakki Pilke Easy37 cutting bar problem - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9K9j6bHlUo)
I checked the chain, no issues. I'll see what I can do about seeing whether it rubs or not.
I remember that video.
I think I would make some pointers out of small metal rods or coat hangers ground to a fine point and put them from a solid place to the log and conveyer so that the points line up perfectly and watch them to see if anything moves during the cut. A dial indicator would work to if you have one.
If all is good there I would turn my attention to the saw pivot and figure out a way to check if the bar is running evenly through the travel or has play in any of the positions, a tiny bit of play at the pivot will be amplified as you go down the bar.
As I type this I got to thinking how I had to shim my chainsaw mill bar to make it coplanar with the bed of the mill. Even though it travelled parallel to the bed it had a slight tip up on the leading edge causing it to rise in the cut.
With the chain removed take 2 straight edge bars (carpenter levels would work) and fasten one that stays the same distance from the bar through it's travel and the put the other on the bar and measure for a difference from one end to the other on the straightedges. If they are out a little bit it would cut drifting slightly to one side and cause it to bind and stall leaving those ridges.
Quote from: Hilltop366 on April 14, 2023, 09:17:44 AM
I remember that video.
I think I would make some pointers out of small metal rods or coat hangers ground to a fine point and put them from a solid place to the log and conveyer so that the points line up perfectly and watch them to see if anything moves during the cut. A dial indicator would work to if you have one.
If all is good there I would turn my attention to the saw pivot and figure out a way to check if the bar is running evenly through the travel or has play in any of the positions, a tiny bit of play at the pivot will be amplified as you go down the bar.
As I type this I got to thinking how I had to shim my chainsaw mill bar to make it coplanar with the bed of the mill. Even though it travelled parallel to the bed it had a slight tip up on the leading edge causing it to rise in the cut.
With the chain removed take 2 straight edge bars (carpenter levels would work) and fasten one that stays the same distance from the bar through it's travel and the put the other on the bar and measure for a difference from one end to the other on the straightedges. If they are out a little bit it would cut drifting slightly to one side and cause it to bind and stall leaving those ridges.
Good points. I've often looked at a cut and said to myself, that blade is not going down straight. I did have the pivot off earlier this year when I replaced all the bearing. Replaced all of them and a new sprocket to try and resolve this issue. Didn't work.
I will also say that this problem is
random. On the same log the first cut could be ok. The next one or two could be difficult. Then one ok and the next one difficult. The next log, all cuts could be ok. Then the following log could be all difficult. Or some, or now. Like I said, random.
If the log/conveyer is not moving I would look at being out of coplanar. Just like adjusting the blade guides when a band saw mill blade is not parallel with the deck.
With the "out of coplanar" idea everything will look fine to the eye but the two straight edges would amplify it enough to measure.
If it was out it would get worse as the bar gets closer to horizontal and as the bar wears, it would also cause the bar to wear out unevenly and faster. I would suspect that a harder wood or harder spot in a log and grain around a knot etc. would change how it acts too.
I can't see the entire bar mount in the video but my guess is that the left side of the mount would be low.
Leeroy, that is good to know.
Jim, that is really frustrating. I don't have any more ideas than what everyone has put out there so far.
A pressure guage plumbed to the saw feed cylinder would let you know if it was getting adequate pressure or if something was amiss there.
seems like a first cut goes ok. in the problem cuts, it stick, but a release and abrupt engaging of the control gets you a little jump at a time. I wonder if the pressure is low like the valve is bypassing at a low pressure. could be stuff in the valve letting it bypass, but build pressure when you let off and hit it again. maybe a pressure gauge.
Quote from: Hilltop366 on April 14, 2023, 10:42:24 AMI can't see the entire bar mount in the video but my guess is that the left side of the mount would be low.
I'll retract that after looking at the picture again I really can't tell the direction of those groves in the end of the log.
The problem with a mechanical bar is that they can't deal with any play or a chain that cuts a little to the side. A handheld chainsaw will cut curves, a mechanical saw can't do that because they don't have any give.
can you or have you tried letting the bar out of the cut, and cutting again? that might confirm the curve theory. it might then cut and edge and make it through the cut. not that you want to have to recut each log. I am surprised that the HP tech. folks cannot watch the video and help out. I would think they would not want this info out about their product and no one is helping you out. I do not know the mechanical details of this machine.
I watched the first part of the video again. their is a drop in the pitch of the cutting noise. is that the cutting by the chain or the speed of the pump. of course it goes back up when the bar stops advancing.
In other words, it seems if it is in a jam, the chain speed would slow or stop, or the pump would be applying full pressure and making a heard working noise trying to plow through the log. I assume the down pressure is hydraulic.
Doc, what happens with a mechanical bar saw is if something is off, the bar will press into the kerf so hard that it stops the bar. The chain still spins completely free, it is under no load at all.
Quote from: doc henderson on April 14, 2023, 01:37:35 PM
can you or have you tried letting the bar out of the cut, and cutting again?
Yes, I can. Sometimes successful. Sometimes not.
that might confirm the curve theory. it might then cut and edge and make it through the cut. not that you want to have to recut each log.
Sometimes 4-5 recuts required. Not moving the log, cutting down into the same kerf.
I am surprised that the HP tech. folks cannot watch the video and help out.
I've tried several times over the years, they never reply. Their response is contact your dealer. Well, the dealer says to bring it in and it is a 6 hour round trip to drop it off, and another 6 hours to go pick it up. Even when I asked a question on this same issue of a video they posted on their own YouTube channel a few days ago (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CAnjTI2jAUE).
I would think they would not want this info out about their product and no one is helping you out. I do not know the mechanical details of this machine.
you say a mechanical bar. is it a hydraulic ram pushing it? what do you mean mechanical bar. I told you I do not know the machine. it seems if the bar is pushing down hard and cannot go further, that it might stop the chain or at leat make a high pressure sound. is it hydraulic? those are the saw motors I have seen before. do you feel the jam is in the mechanism? that I guess would explain the chain turning freely, and the bar not advancing. does it appear cockeyed in the cut? is there a curve to the end? trying to help.
Doc, there are two versions for the chainsaw blade motion activation. One, the bar comes down into the cut using the operator's arm pulling down on a bar that is mechanically attached to the chainsaw blade. Example;
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/images-2~0.jpeg?easyrotate_cache=1681515886)
The other (my machine) the chainsaw blade is hydraulically controlled from the joystick,
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/hakki-joystick.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1681516134)
whereby a small hydraulic piston (picture here highlights the grease zerk at the top of the piston)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/hakki-chiansaw_blade_piston.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1681516342)
inside the machine moves the chainsaw blade up and down.
I am not certain, but I think if you pressed too hard, too fast the chain can stall as you'd burn up the belt that drives it. 99.9% of the time the blade stalls in the cut while the chain keeps turning. ON my model the chain runs continually from the time the machine is turned on until its turned off.
Without micrometers etc, I suppose one way to check for a chainsaw blade that is not cutting straight would be to take a 6x6 or 8x8 cant and run it through to see if it stalls. If it does, then check with a framing square.
so I wonder if it could be a linkage or a valve that is bypassing. or else it should pull hard on the motor if it is still tying to push the bar. sounds more like it just stops trying.
The relief pressure on the hydraulic feed is very low. It doesn't take much feed pressure to stall the chain when everything is otherwise working correctly.
Doc, when I use the term "mechanical bar" I mean a bar that is on a processor like this, or like on the logging harvesters. You run into the same type of issues with the barsaw on a $800K Ponsse Scorpion as you do on Jim's little Hakki Pilke. Sometimes you hit something with a few teeth on just one side, and the bar will start hanging mid cut. I've never had it happen in the limited amount of time I've run harvester, but the bearings in the saw motor can go out and cause similar issues.
Jim, I'm going to ask the obvious again just trying to check all of the boxes- you have the correct gauge of chain on? My first binding issues when I brought my machine home was due to someone putting .063 gauge, .404 chainsaw chain on the .80 gauge, .404 bar. It wandered in the cut enough apparently to cause the bar to bind.
My machine has an adjustable feed pressure, I turned it up and it would then stall the chain, so that wasn't the problem.
It wasn't until I put a new harvester chain on that things worked correctly.
It's not impossible that you have a feed pressure issue, but the way your cuts are stepped suggests something else.
well gents, thanks for letting think along with you. Jim I hope you get it fixed.
Quote from: barbender on April 14, 2023, 11:40:30 PM...
Jim, I'm going to ask the obvious again just trying to check all of the boxes- you have the correct gauge of chain on?
Here are the chain and blade we use.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20230415_064924-processor-chain.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1681552389)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/20037/20230415_064950-processor-bar.jpg?easyrotate_cache=1681552389)
can you safely test each component safely? like the down pressure of the bar? it is odd how it jumps a little each time you cycle it to get through the log.
Quote from: doc henderson on April 15, 2023, 06:03:07 AM
can you safely test each component safely? like the down pressure of the bar? it is odd how it jumps a little each time you cycle it to get through the log.
I tried a while back to test the up and down pressure with no chain on. Nothing scientific, just me holding onto the bar for both directions. Seems to be plenty. The jump marks are a result of bumping the joystick to try and get the blade through the log.
I did put a resharpened chain (I sharpen chains with a oregon bench grinder) on this morning. It's better by about 80%. Still stops mid cut a bit but better than what it was.
Still sounds like a bar chain issue. It could be a relief valve... My machine will do the same thing if the bar rails need to be trued, the bar groove is worn too wide, the chain drivers are worn thin, the chain cutters aren't ground equally or one side has hit something or a combination of these things. If it were my machine I'd start with these issues first. A new bar, chain and sprocket and I'd seriously look into converting to wider kerf stuff. At least .375. Are you running semi chisel chain? It's much more forgiving.
Quote from: Corley5 on April 15, 2023, 09:53:49 AM
Still sounds like a bar chain issue. It could be a relief valve... My machine will do the same thing if the bar rails need to be trued, the bar groove is worn too wide, the chain drivers are worn thin, the chain cutters aren't ground equally or one side has hit something or a combination of these things. If it were my machine I'd start with these issues first. A new bar, chain and sprocket and I'd seriously look into converting to wider kerf stuff. At least .375. Are you running semi chisel chain? It's much more forgiving.
Bar is new. Chain I had on yesterday was new out of the box. I've have to look and see what chain style was on it yesterday.
Just my own preference but I don't like semi-chisel. At least not on a chainsaw.
Chain is full chisel on the processor this morning, seems to be performing better.
Harvester chain is semi. It's much more forgiving of dirt and is easier to keep cutting straight. Full chisel is for hand held saws. I'd never run semi chain falling timber just as I'd never run full on a firewood machine. I've had new chain mis-ground out of the box.
Quote from: Corley5 on April 15, 2023, 09:53:49 AMStill sounds like a bar chain issue
Agree although thinking the log/conveyer creeping ahead even i tiny bit could have the same effect which is why I suggested using pointers on them to confirm one way or the other.
Quote from: jimbarry on April 15, 2023, 11:02:43 AM
Bar is new. Chain I had on yesterday was new out of the box.
Which still makes me think that if the log is not moving or at least putting side pressure on the bar then the bar could be a bit out of coplanar with the path of travel which would work ok when everything else is perfect .......at least until I'm proven wrong. :D
If you were closer I would take a ride and see it in person but it's over 5 hours drive. We could not get much farther apart and still be on mainland NS.
Quote from: Hilltop366 on April 15, 2023, 11:20:05 AM
If you were closer I would take a ride and see it in person but it's over 5 hours drive. We could not get much farther apart and still be on mainland NS.
Digby/Yarmouth area? We could meet half way in Windsor at Hants Equipment (dealer). :D
Yarmouth Co. but just a few kms. out of town.
In my experience with this issue, when I realized there was some belt creep, it was happening when the joystick was being pulled down and to the right. So we are conscious of pulling down straight. Or pulling down and to the left. Which you might think would cause the belt to creep back but that is not what I am observing.
The other thing I've noticed is that when the blade is stuck, bumping it through to finish the cut almost always show those 'bump steps' (as someone previously mentioned) as if the log was being pulled back. Meaning the steps are slightly protruding from the plane of the face cut. Each bump causing the step to go out a bit further. My first thought seeing that was belt creep but I'm not seeing that occur.
That is a classic symptom of your chain cutting off to the side, whether it is the chain itself or something causing the chain not to cut true.
I was going to ask if you are running full chisel as well. Go get some semi-chisel chain asap, it may solve your problem straight away. Also, do you measure your teeth when you've sharpened them? Many bench grinders will give you unequal length teeth if you just swivel the vise without readjusting the pawl for the chain stop. I have to readjust my Tecomec, which I think is the same machine as an Oregon 511.
So if the bar has a tiny bit of slant / with the lower part towards the log it could do the same thing. The bar is travelling in one plane and the chain is trying to go to the left but once it gets fully buried in the log it starts to bind in the kerf and bending the bar a bit to the left then when the bar stops the chain keeps turning and widening out the kerf you let the feed control off and reapply, watching this in the slowest playback speed shows that the bar only advances at the very beginning of the leaver stroke which is that split second between valve opening and pressure relief opening.
Something in the bar mount (sawdust or a bump) holding the bar at a slight angle or the outboard side too low.
Quote from: jimbarry on April 15, 2023, 11:26:57 AM
We could meet half way in Windsor at Hants Equipment (dealer). :D
I was in Halifax last Saturday with 5 hours to kill before I could return home.....missed opportunity.
I am on the outside looking in without knowledge of this machine (other than what you have given me) but it seems the binding would at least impair or stop the chain. maybe much more power to the chain as was suggested. can you shut down in the mid cut when it is acting up. meaning leave the bar in the cut so you can look at what is happening to the chain and bar. I had an issue with my 880 and 5 foot bar, and indeed found as I was trying to bibby off a side branch, and the rubbing along the log, it was knocking the chain out of the groove. was violent to hold onto and that is how I figured that out. it was traying make a curved cut along the length of the bar.
Quote from: barbender on April 15, 2023, 11:48:03 AM
... do you measure your teeth when you've sharpened them? ...
Never have measured teeth.
Both my MAXX and Tecomec require resetting when switching sides.
I'm pretty sure the problem is that the bar/chain wants to cut curved and the saw pivot won't allow it.
I think I would take the same chain and bar and put it on a chainsaw and cut through the largest log I had. I'm guessing you will make a right hand banana cut.
If you do, then it's not the machine, but the bar or chain. If it cuts straight through, then look at the bar pivot. Maybe it is worn and wants to twist the bar as it lowers. Might try setting a log a bit back from the blade and measuring the gap to the top and bottom of the bar as it lowers. Think tire alignment. There should be no toe-in or out.
If the bar is brand new, then most likely the chain grind. I have two chains here my son left me that always cut left. Old bar, new bar, 2 saws, resharpened several times. Still cut left. He hand filed by eye and was not consistent side to side. I've given up on them. They just hang on a nail until I have some really dirty wood that needs cutting that I don't want a good chain near.
The thing with testing it on a handheld saw is that it would only have to be cutting out of "alignment" by probably less than 1/2" for it to bind the bar on the processor, but that is less than the accuracy than I can hit with a hand held saw anyways. It would be telling if it actually cut a banana curve though.
Jim, any updates on your machine?
My Hakki is the "Armstrong" style. I have to pull the saw down through the wood, I think most everything else is the same. At times, I'd really like that joystick control, but when it goes south, oh boy! I did have to make an adjustment to my infeed belt today. It was noticeably slower than normal on feed in. There is a rod with two springs that set tension on a hydraulic valve. I put a couple turns on one side of that spring and was back up to speed! The other spring is adjusts the belts reverse speed.
No pics, but it is raining pretty good today, got 1 cord done and in the trailer, I was soaked to the core, calling that a day! I got 1 done Friday, and 2 done Saturday, so it was still a productive weekend. Extra productive since the Saturday cord were almost all short/awkward logs not off the brow, so lots of trips from the tractor to the processor and back. Good wood, just not high production. I try and use up these logs when I work alone, that way when I have help, we can let the machine EAT!
The weather guessers are calling for 3+ inches of rain starting tonight (sat) thru Mon morning. bWe usually try and do family stuff on Sat and I do wood stuff Sundays...not this week! We scored Bruins playoff tickets for Wed and that was a LATE family night. I get out of work early on Fridays, so I gotna cordndone and loaded into a dump trailer right off. Had to make a few precision adjustments with my 3lb hammer them started on the next cord. Went to dinner with my brother and dad, so I didn't finish cord 2 but thats ok. Got the second cord finished right off this am, then delivered it and did up 1 more. Long story short, we got our normal 3 cord done, but it wasn't on the normal schedule so.I was lone ranger (except for the boy emptying the sawdust bucket during the first cord, til he wondered off). I'm tired, but at least I didn't fall further behind, and I've only got 1 cord to deliver in the rain tomorrow. Rest of the day is doing house chores, leveling the new wood shed, and setting up and test running the new generator
Quote from: GRANITEstateMP on April 23, 2023, 12:35:53 PM
Jim, any updates on your machine?
...
We've been blocking with the chainsaw and using the vertical splitter the last couple of weeks. This past Friday we sorted a new batch of logs and put a cord up on the processor. Sizes 3 to 10 inches, most somewhere in the mid range. Small stuff really. Maple, lots of ash, some birch. The machine performed well all day. Same bar and chain as before.
Quote from: Big_eddy on April 16, 2023, 09:37:18 AM
I'm pretty sure the problem is that the bar/chain wants to cut curved and the saw pivot won't allow it.
...
I had the entire pivot mechanism rebuilt at the dealer this year as a solution to the problem. It didn't resolve it. I've check for blade travelling offset on the downward stroke. Didn't use a micrometer but a measurement using in 1/32" of an inch showed equal distances.
Doesn't matter now. We've decided to put the machine up for sale. Had a fellow stop by today for a test run.
Our Easy37 was sold today. It served us well. Been working great lately. Time for a new owner.
Sometimes its out with the old and in with the new! As long as everyone is happy, that's a win. Ingot 1 cord.sone after work today, may try for another tomorrow, or go with the family to the farm & forest expo...probably BOTH
We blocked, cracked and stacked 1.25 cord after lunch withe the 372xp and the vertical splitter while waiting for the buyer to show up. Winds averaging 30-35 mph and my back was to the wind while blocking. Even with safety glasses on the dust was everywhere. Lesson today was to choose the correct end of the log pile in windy conditions.
Did a temporary setup for the new conveyor. The built in 16ft conveyor on the hakki won't easily fill my buddys 14ft dump trailer w 2cord. Today we set the new-ish 20ft up and really eased the process.
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sorry about the crummy pics
We got 4 cord done this am, 1 in each of my trailers, and 2 in my buddys. The landing is getting bare and we haven't had good weather so no logs have been rolling in
for a while. My buddy did bring his own wood for his cords, that helps
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Gonna deliver, then maybe take a nap!
Had a novel just about done...then hit the wrong button, so
Had the saw drive gear on the processor wear out. It went fron wearing to JUNK real quick
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Had to get creative, since last time I did this repair (2017) I had to get the arbor and drive assembly from Finland
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cut the 4 tach welds and press off.
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press the Oregon gear I was smart enough to put into stock on the cleaned up arbor, tach it on. Press that unit into the housing.
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Press the pulley on and set the bolt and washer. Sorry about the crummy pics. I got it set back into the machine and made a few adjustments and 2 cuts before we had to go head out to Mothers Day. Glad it's together, but will still order spare parts on Monday.
Would it be possible to convert it to a rim sprocket?
As they say in hockey "KICK save, and a BEAUTY!" Nicely done. Something like that could be a real bear to get done quick, you made it look easy. Nicely done.
Hilltop, I like to say anything made out of metal can be fix or adjusted. But, most of the time it needs to be by someone smarter than me! ;D. Now that I've done it the factory way and the Matt aka Hillbilly way, I may try and tap the hole in the pre 2017 arbo and put another spur sprocket on there, I have spare bearings, so then I'd have a back up all set to go. It may be a better combo with the rim style but this one went on in mid 2017, its done at least 360 cord in that time, I'm cool with that. One of the parts of this machine that is less than ideal, Jim Barry pointed out before, is when the machine is on the chain is spinning. I don't know how many hours that had on it, but it earned its keep.
OGH,
If only my Bruins could have had a couple more kick saves in the first round :(
We got the arbor out up at the farm, then I had a family gathering for a few hours. Later, a buddy helped me out at his shop, which is nice and clean, and two minds are normally better than one. We had the thing done up quick enough and weren't too crude either! I got it on this am, and after a great mothers day get together made a few tweaks and did up a few logs tonight while the wife milked cows
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guards up for saftey! It was off, this was after the eveing test run.
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Back to making big wood into little wood again!
That time of year again, got my first cord of pine/spruce/hemlock camp wood done last night. It's nice to have this other market for a different firewoid, but sometimes I kick myself, there aren't enough hours in a day!
Half day of real work so now its time to get a bushog job done before tomorrows rain
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You do anything that doesn't make noise ? :D :D :D
Me neither.
granite, it looks like you cab is stacked full of firewood. do you deliver while you are mowing? :)
Mick, There are few things in this world I excel at...making noise is one of them ;D
Doc, only thing in the cab today was my lunchbox, which did not have a spare set of batterys for when my work tunes died today. I could stack the cab with wood, I'd be like The Firewood version of santa
After a slow start to firewood this year (I am totally to blame for that :D), we are at 42cords delivered, well 41 with one waiting in the trailer to go.
We've had a lot of needed rain lately, we got almost 2in from Fri night to Sun night. Some of my customers drop.spots are too soft for deliverys, so.I got to pick and choose a bit. Even my yard is a bit wet
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My main log brow that feeds the processor is getting pretty low, but my logger buddys saved me late last week with a grapple load right on time! The logs in the foreground of the pic are mostly shorts that I don't put on the brow because they won't feed easily (so I feed with the tractor and grapple). They take longer to make a cord, but there good wood, and paid for so when I'm working alone I try and use up that pile.
We've got a bunch of orders for 20-22in wood, which we generally work up with the oversized logs that won't feed into the processor. That'll be the next big push as we've got a pretty good handle on the processor customers right now.
Happy Happy birthday, Granite
Thanks Doc!
Another rainy Sunday. Got started a bit late this am, it was kinda misting at first, then about halfway into the first cord it started to really rain. Got the Ez-Up popped into place, and managed to get 2 cord worked up and into the trailers before the sky's really opened up. Just checked the rain gauge, at 1in for the day. I may try and get 1 cord dropped, customer has solid ground, the other has to wait. On the other hand, a nap sounds good too...
UPDATE- No real nap :(, and as of dinner time we are just shy of 2in of rain. I did get 1 cord delivered
GSMP, you did well to get that wood split in the rain yesterday. I'm not that far from you and it poured all day. 1.8 inches by supper time here. I stayed in the house all morning and in the barn all afternoon. Another .8 inches last night.
Noah, can I borrow the ark?
cutterboy,
I just walked in and looked at the rain gauge, 2.75 over the two days. If you get the ark, can I get a berth on it? ;D
We've shipped 50+ cord so far this year.
I losded up the log deck with 3-5 cord of logs yesterday am to be ready for processing this am. I then had to report to the racetrack (NHMS) for my crewman duties on my friends pavement modified. It was a long HOT and humid day, but we improved all day and came home 9th, and I didn't spill any fuel during our pitstop, that is a GOOD DAY.
Today I woke up to a steady light rain, figured we'd shoot for 2 cord vs 3. Had breakfast, and it really started raining! Then we got a tornado warning, not too common in NH. Well, 3 tornado warnings later, still no firewood done, but not tornados either, we'll call that a win too.
Maybe I'll try and sneak 1 cord in between downpours 1in so far by lunch), or maybe I'll sneak a nap in instead 8)
Yesterday a nap was the best option. It was pretty much a lost day for me. I picked some veggies in the early morning, napped after lunch and swept out the barn in the afternoon. The rain let up late in the afternoon and I was able to grill a steak. digin1
cutterboy, that sounds like a pretty solid day to me!
I got about half a cord done Sunday between rain showers, then finished it last night when the wife and son went swimming. Another cord off the hit list
Saturday I got another cord of 22's done before heading out for an adventure.
Sunday was looking to be a hot one, got the equipment fueled up and singing a little before 8, can't go too early got to keep the neighbors happy. Got 2 more cord done.
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The brow had just enough wood on it
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Also got to meet gaspasser Sunday am. He was interested in seeing the HockeyPuck in action, it was nice meeting another member!
Got those cords dropped, got to cross a 10 cord customer off the list, as complete! Mowed the yard, just about needed to get the bushog going! Then headed to a cookout and over indulged on lobster, stead tips, and fixins. This week I'll have to sort some more logs for the processor, and reload the brow. I really should finish my wood and get it stacked....
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3 more cords shipped out this weekend, 2 the week before, somewhere just shy of 70 for the year. Took a whole day last weekend and did maintenance, greasing, organizing, weed eating, fix said weed eater, clean up the cull pile. It was goid to do some many of the little fixes that needed a bit of love.
I've got enough processor logs for a weekend and a half, if I don't see a delivery by then, it'll be back to the over sized pile, cuttin, crackin, shipping
Hi GsMP, Are you having trouble getting enough firewood logs? I'm thinking that with the wet ground loggers are having a tough time getting the logs out. I would expect tho that with the poor pulp market there should be plenty of wood available for you firewood guys.
spot on cutter, the wet is slowing them up a bit. I haven't run out yet, but come close. I can diversify, and cut oversized stuff, but I'd really like to bang down my processor customer list a bit before changing it up. I will let them know when I'm real close, I know I'm not there only customer
Cut up some stuff that was too big and ugly for the processor today. Pre split it with the skid steer, will load uo the trailer tomorrow... if the weather allows
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this is what was left over from the last run. I added some between rain showers
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might do a few more logs before putting the conveyor back. Got to go pick up the boys atv from the shop before they close, that is priority!
Got 1 cord done from the splitter and 2 cord done off the processor. I also managed to add a couple logs to the brow for next week. I guess I didn't need to chunk up those extra few logs to the other day, I had leftovers...til the next cord
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I was supposed to deliver 3 cords and finish off 3 customers...NOPE! 1 customer added another cord and another customers brother was around when I was delivering and wanted a cord to get drying. 3 cords forward, 2 cords back
Gstate, looking good. The cooler weather makes it much nicer to work outside. Is all your wood sold green? Are your customers discipled enough to let it dry or do they burn it green?
cutter,
I do 99% green, from log truck to my brow, into the trailer and to there house. I would say around 40% are set up to be around a year ahead. 25% ask for early spring delivery every year and ask if it'll be dry by fall (I tell them that the ash will be). 35% just burn it green. I try every year to get one or two of the last minute folks to try and get a cord or two ahead for the next year...slowly getting them converted!
I want to get a kiln built so I always have dry wood like Jim Barry, but I sell mine green too.
I've done some dry in the past. I didn't think there was enough extra money to be made to justify the extra handling...but, I really hate stacking so that may cloud my judgement ;D
Cord 100 & 101 rolled out the door yard today. I've got a short list to finish up, then refill my emergency wood area (holds 8ish cord of 12ft logs) and then lots of maintenance stuff for over the winter. I'm sure at some point we'll to a bunch of bigger stuff for me and a couple buddy's, but I think we'll end up around 110 cord this year which is closer to my goal off 100. Ive got to finish my second new wood shed, it needs to be leveled and roofed, then get those filled up. Might need to take me a day off of real work!
haven't exactly been setting the world on fire over the last month. 2 more cord this weekend and we're at 111. Good news is, those two card will help fill MY new wood sheds! I'll try and grab some more pics one of these days.
Last 2 cord of 2023 rolled out a little while ago, I think that means we ended somewhere between 113-117cord this year, I'll check at some point. Went nice and easy
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quartered wood was resplit when needed, onto the conveyor and into the dump trailer. All the wood was oversized stuff from my friends tree service. We make a good size pile of ugly pieces, those get tossed to the side and go up to the farms outdoor boiler. Those may get loaded later today...maybe!
We also did about 2 hrs of brush cutting and maintenance along our atv trails, much needed and a good time. May take a rest before the next project..
Man, I am so gonna miss the ash trees. Spent a bit of time the last two weekends cutting dead ash, and unfortunately not dead burning bush, around the processor area. Every time I think I know about how many are left, I find MORE. Probably half the wood will go to the processor, the other half either too far gone and into the bonfire pile or up to the farm for the boiler. Some are covered in ivy, thats always fun too. Good news, once cut and I take out a couple stumps, I'll have another nice tractor trail around part of the property. Kinda cold out now, got to bring in a bit more firewood to the basement rack, then tip a few more ash. I found an old stacked granite foundation, it was hidden with all the burning bush, I'm tossing the brush in there, burn it all off, then clean the area up.
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Test, and I think we have success!!! Houston, the guy with the flip phone has re-learned how to post a pic! Easy peasy
This is the beginning of my mud season log stash, so I can keep delivering even if logs don't come in. I got caught a couple times real low during that time of year, now I try and stay ahead
IMG_20240204_094715.jpg
Test 2.0, different way to add pic.
This is the log pile I'm working from. 12' is ideal for the processor and me handling them. Sometimes I have to cut the logs to make them feed easier when its go time. My shorts pile is in the foreground. The shorts take longer to process, but I don't mind, it still makes firewood, and not much waste wood
Had a productive day and a half of getting logs moved around. The pile from yesterday is gone!
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All of that is either in my mud season stash, or two shorts piles that'll get worked up next time the processor runs. My log brow that feeds the processor is full and my mud stash is 3/4 full. I'll order up another load or two and that'll be a good jump start toward next season
no firewood done this week, but I got a new honda put on the 4ft wood splitter, and got most of my newest woodshed sided. Hope to get a little more production on either task tomm