Splitting Large Firewood Rounds - Operating a CountyLine 30 ton Log Splitter Vertically

This video shows splitting some large sugar maple firewood rounds with a CountyLine 30 ton log splitter oriented in the vertical position. Through the video, some of the different aspects of operating a typical homeowner log splitter vertically compared to horizontally are indicated.
Being able to work vertically is great for large rounds that are too heavy to comfortably lift. However, beyond that it is not my preferred working position due to the ergonomics. What is expressed in this video is my opinion based on my experience only.
*I have no affiliation with CountyLine, Tractor Supply Co., or Stihl

[@garycountryman5412]

Lay a short piece of 2x4 or 2x6 flat on the ground in front of the plate to keep the wood from tipping outward.

[@ProductiveRecreation]

That works as long as things don’t shift. I find between moving the rounds into position and the slight movement of the beam during splitting it just gets pushed into the ground. That is to say, it works for a while, then you have to add more blocks or move the splitter and reset. A 2x8 or 2x10 would be better to distribute over more area. But that only helps for the big ones…. Once they’re smaller and on the end of the beam, they sometimes still want to tip out if the cut isn’t perfectly square.

[@pipedreams57]

Make it a two person operation by getting wifey-poo to run the lever while you sit on a round and split. First weld a 16 x 20 piece of 1/4" cold rolled plate onto the tiny little foot the factory provides. That will hold the wood much leveler. Park the atv or riding mower with a good dump cart about 2 feet away to put split wood into. Keep at it there tendefoot. Live and learn. Also you will find that the 30 ton splitter needs a hydraulic oil cooler and better engine cooling,.....just like mine.

[@D70340]

Work smarter not harder. Bust your big rounds in half, then after you`ve done that, flip the splitter back to horizontal and finish your splitting. Saved my back by working smarter.

[@pipedreams57]

hahah...I split 36" Norwegian hard rock maple with my 30 to county line all the time.. Trash out the front drop leg stand and buy a cheap top wind trailed jack from tractor supply..There is just enough room to add the top wind jack after removing the other garbage.

[@darrintraywick8042]

If you want it to be more ergonomical spend more money