How many horse power is needed for X size mill?

[Modat22]

I'm building a manual mill, I have a 24 hp gas engine I was planning to use and would like to draw up my saw head. I was thinking about using 28 inch dia tires for my band wheels and would like to be able to saw a max log dia of 36 inches.

I wanted to use the larger tires to minimize band flex stress but I might be getting to large for my engine.

Any advice?

[Fla._Deadheader]

 We used 13" trailer wheels and tires. We got a 24" dia. from those, and we SAW 36" Table Slabs. We CAN saw a 40" + log, but, it's hard work turning one that big. We have the 24HP Honda. We could always use "MO POWER"  :D :D :D

  We DO NOT break blades, unless we have abused one and not performed good maintenance on the blades.

[wiam]

The 15" tires on my mill give me 26" rolling diameter.  I have a 20 hp briggs on mine.  It is enough most of the time, but could use more sometimes.

Will