I have placed an order on a new Wood-Mizer LT35HD, which is supposed to arrive next week. I have the option of going to a LT40. I understand that the units are comparable, with a few different options. The auto clutch on the LT40 sounds like a nice feature. Is there enough benefit in upgrading to the LT40 to justify the extra $12k (CDN)? I have some experience with a 35HD already, but have never actually seen a 40.
Thanks for your input.
I remember making that choice also. More HP and log diameter capacity on the 40. In hind sight, I would have bought the 35 and put the 10k toward a FEL tractor. How often do I mill a 36" log?
I don't see any benefit. But those that use a 40 may see it differently.
I'd suggest you read upon the specs on both available on the WM site and decide if the extra features are worth the extra cost. I may be out of date but I thought the standard gas engine on the LT40 is 26 HP while it is 25 hp on my LT35 - doesn't seem worth the difference. Both offer other engine options so be sure to compare comparable engines. I think the depth of cut is a little more on the LT40 which would be a factor if you do much quartersawing. I can't make a 12" drop IIIRC which would be nice when cutting cants for 1X12 or 2X12s and such. I think the frame and hydraulics are the same. Changing bands on the LT35 seems much faster and easier than the LT40 as it has hinged doors instead of having to remove them. I don't remember if the LT40 has or comes with the extra side support options which I got and love on my LT35. Both have the claw type log turner instead of the chain type. I have the manual clutch on mine. The auto clutch would be nice but I don't know about maintenance of one.
I love my LT35. I'd like more features but am sure you will be happy with either. Just compare and make your own decision as to what you need and will use then determine if it is worth the price difference.
Go to the dealer and demo both mills.
I use an LT40 wide. I don't have an upgrade on the engine and so I am spending a lot of time in the wide cuts but with a 4 degree blade and patience I get smooth boards. Without the upgraded engine there might not be a big difference in how much wood you can saw in a day.
I was on the 35/40 fence a few years ago and decided the 2 main things I was upgrading for were. Hydraulics and more capacity, I ended up with the 40 wide and have never regretted it. When I run into a large log, say 40" I make the first cut at 32" rotate 90° make a cut at 32", rotate 90° and cut slabs down to the top of my first cant. If I'm making 6" cants, I'll cut 2 of them, tip the whole thing up with the clamp and slide them off. Then flip it 180° slab down to the top of the next cant, then make 2 more cants. Then stand up the 2 cants and start making 2- 2x6's per cut. Anyway, a little extra capacity in your back pocket is a good thing in my mind.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/43396/6128F499-0683-4656-8A07-32E845E4C7EF.jpeg?easyrotate_cache=1618152165)
Not the best picture, but the closest I could find.
There is no question nor hesitation that if I was buying today it would be an LT40 SuperHydraulic Wide.
I would buy the 35 and if I thought I needed more mill on a regular basis I would go straight to the Super 40 for its faster hydraulics and upgraded drag back capacity. The 40 is the mainstay mill in the WM line and very popular, but there is a big price step for that increased capacity you may not need or want. I sawed enough 3ft logs on my 70 to know I just as soon leave that for task for somebody else.
Quote from: Sixacresand on April 10, 2021, 09:46:09 AM
I remember making that choice also. More HP and log diameter capacity on the 40. In hind sight, I would have bought the 35 and put the 10k toward a FEL tractor. How often do I mill a 36" log?
I agree on the 35 if you are getting the mill for lumber. I'd go for the 40 wide if you are going to make money with large logs for slabs. Either way though, you need a FEL for the mill.
Hobby sawing or small income work a 35 is a LOT of mill. I kept mine when I bought my Super 70 and there is no way I will give it up.
If you are going to be sawing professionally I don't see the value difference between a 35 and a regular 40. In that scenario the limiting factor won't be cut speed, hydraulics, etc - rather it will be material handling. If that's the case then the Super 40 is the way to go, drag back, considerably faster hydraulics, and Accuset II. More money? Yup - but it will make you more money too.
Agree, LT40 super is the sweet spot in the WM lineup.
Thanks for all the replies fellas, all valid points for sure. At this point, I am going to stick with the 35. If the milling goes as well as I think it can, an upgrade to a 40 super could be in the cards.
I already have most of the equipment to supplement the business...truck/trailer, TJ 230 skidder, and a Kubota M7060 tractor with loader and a bunch of attachments. Aside from a rotating grapple, I'm in good shape for log handling.
Thanks for all your thoughts and options guys.