Rugged Split 37 Ton Log Splitter Review, Modifications, and Use with Dr Joe

[@curtesamoangelos5995]

I purchased the same exact model but had the standard "Raven" brand engine. My filter and battery arrived within 2 days of the splitter. I'm extremely satisfied with my splitter. Purchased it 2 years ago.

[@JosephHunstad]

thank you again for your comment. The one thing I can say is change the oil in your engine after five hours and then the engine should be good for life. The first oil change is important because it removes all the fine metal particles left over from machining. This first oil change will minimize the subsequent wear. Take care - Joe Hunstad

[@340dave]

Just ordered 4 pins. When the warranty expires, gonna add a 2" rec tube on both ends of splitter so it can be pulled from either end, and will extend out like yours to clear the catcher tray. Also added the trailer crank-up like yours. I'm gonna have a fabricator friend of mine to make a wider catcher try, as I don't like the floppy one. By the way, RuggedMade just redone the install video (now narrated!) for the 737, two weeks to late for me.. But better than never. You're right, other than the necessary mods, this is a hardy splitter. Glad I bought mine when I did, the prices just went thru the roof. Good job and thanks for the suggestions!

[@JosephHunstad]

Thank you very much for your comments. I'm glad you like those modifications the ones that you're doing also sound great. this is a great log splitter just needed a few enhancements. I've never been able to bought mine down. I would like to buy a six way splitter or make one. That's the only additional thinng that I want to add.

[@JosephHunstad]

Kevin you are so right I should’ve absolutely done that because it’s the heaviest part of the equipment thank you for your comment

[@curtesamoangelos5995]

Thanks for sharing your upgrades. I'll be doing the same now in a couple of weeks. Great video!

[@JosephHunstad]

Thank you for your comment. I think you will really enjoy this log splitter it has been a workhorse for me. Let me know how your modifications go and let me know if you have any other suggestions. Thank you Joe Hunstad

[@JosephHunstad]

I chose the Honda engine because Hondas have a great reputation of always starting. I find this the case I want an inch and it starts reliably. So far it’s been great

[@JosephHunstad]

Thank you very much for your comment the modifications have made this log splitter so much more efficient and useful.

[@tomaszciolkosz9346]

I have same splitter, hydrolic valves broke on me in first 10 minutes of use, it take rugged made only a month to send me new update parts. I got so angry i was ready to return this crap. Finally have this thing working, i weld 5 inch extension on site wedges, works way better, also made my own 6 way wedge because the one they sell have bad design, splitter have lots of power BUT sometimes it’s straggling, nice video!!!

[@JosephHunstad]

would LOVE to see your splitter. I would like to make one!

[@curtesamoangelos5995]

Watching from Yosemite Kentucky.

[@kevinsartin6059]

That's why you pick it from the cylinder, let the rest if the weight hang.

[@mrphilgardner100]

I would love to have this splitter and would buy it, except for the fact that you can't buy it assembled? Northern Star sales them assembled, so I am going to buy another one of theirs.

[@JosephHunstad]

Hey, thanks for your comment. It’s funny some of us love to assemble these things and some don’t. I personally do but it’s a personal choice. Getting one assembled you can use it right away and I understand the benefits of that. Consider subscribing. Thanks. Joe.

[@robertbartolomie857]

Good ideas thanks for sharing.

[@JosephHunstad]

Hey Robert thank you for the comment. I think you’ll find those modifications to the log splitter are really helpful. I really like this log splitter particularly the Honda engine and the log lifter. Take care joe

[@RuggedMade]

Great video, thank you for the review!

[@JosephHunstad]

For the money I think it’s a very good log splitter but The modifications I suggested have really helped me. Take care. Joe

[@billjustbill5739]

Could you list where you bought the new pins with the tilting lock/slot ends? Size and Length? Like the idea! Also, do you have any heating problems with the hydraulic oil? How long are your splitting sessions... I'm 70+ and wonder if Texas heat would be an issue on oil temp or 'old man' temps?

[@JosephHunstad]

In the description now. Swivel Hitch Pin. Oil gets hot but no overheating yet.

[@8martinp1]

Hi . Super video. I have just bought a similar machine but marketed in the UK as an MDL splitter costing £3850 ($4750). It's a shame that after two years they haven't made the simple improvements you suggest. I little bit of lateral thinking would turn a good log splitter into a great one. The tow bar extension is a simple but great idea. The swivel hitch pins - inspired, I will try to find some in the UK. Mine has a problem with the legs, that foul the hydraulic hoses on the log lifter when they are retracted for transport. Any suggestions?

[@JosephHunstad]

Hello Peter, thank you for your nice comment. Yes the stabilizing legs to get interfered with with the hydraulic lines and somehow I just manage to work it out. I don’t know anything in particular. Consider subscribing. Thanks, Joe.

[@stevenmuraco]

Love the modifications

[@JosephHunstad]

Thank you so much!!

[@haroldfroehlich656]

GOOD JOB , you should work for the rugged company or they should send you free parts , good stuff ,thank you ,I have one , changed things ,extended the hitch is next ,so to in stall front wheel crank lift.

[@JosephHunstad]

Thanks so much for your comment. You will see a huge improvement when you extend the hitch and add a trailer jack!!! Take care Joe

[@rottiejakeluke]

I see you chose the Honda engine. Why? Thanks

[@JosephHunstad]

worth the extra money Reliable It starts.

[@jefferyedwards5003]

Don't let your mechanic perform plastic surgery and don't let your plastic surgeon do mechanical work. A filter is NEVER an option...if you don't see it, you should be calling.

[@JosephHunstad]

Thank you, you are totally right. detail yes, it is really necessary for the pumps longevity. Interestingly, though Rucker split in their literature made it seem that it was optional, which I found strange. Consider subscribing. Thanks, Joe.