5″ Bore x 30″ Stroke Log Splitter Hydraulic Cylinders

A 5" Bore x 30" Stroke Log Splitter Hydraulic Cylinder is a heavy-duty, double-acting hydraulic component designed for log splitters, capable of withstanding up to 3,500 PSI. The 5-inch bore (inner diameter) and 30-inch stroke (piston travel distance) enable it to generate significant force, approximately 58,900 pounds, making it ideal for splitting large, tough logs. Constructed with a high-tensile, honed cold-drawn tubing and a chrome-plated rod, it ensures durability and corrosion resistance, even in extreme conditions. Features include a welded clevis mount for secure attachment, a 2-inch rod with a tapered end (often 1.75" with a 9/16" or 1" pinhole), and 1/2" NPT ports for easy hydraulic system integration. Polyurethane seals and wear rings enhance longevity, and they’re compatible with gas log splitters, electric log splitters, 3-point tractor log splitters, and skid steer log splitters.

This log splitter hydraulic cylinder is a direct replacement for many OEM double-acting, clevis-mount cylinders. Common OEM no-modification-needed replacement for: Tractor Supply Co., Huskee, SplitMaster, Oregon, SpeeCo, and many others.

Log Splitter Hydraulic Cylinder Dimensions

How Does the Hydraulic Cylinder for a Log Splitter Work

A hydraulic cylinder for a log splitter works by converting hydraulic pressure into linear mechanical force to split logs efficiently. It is a key component in hydraulic log splitters and operates on the principles of hydraulics, where pressurized fluid is used to generate force and motion.

The hydraulic log splitter cylinder consists of several parts: the barrel, piston, piston rod, seals, and end caps. The cylinder is connected to the hydraulic pump, which supplies pressurized hydraulic fluid (usually oil). This fluid is routed into the cylinder through ports, applying pressure to either side of the piston.

When hydraulic fluid enters the base end of the cylinder (behind the piston), it pushes the piston forward. This forward motion extends the piston rod, which is attached to the splitter wedge or blade. The immense force generated by the hydraulic pressure drives the wedge into the log, splitting it apart. The amount of force depends on the size of the cylinder’s bore (diameter) and the pressure of the hydraulic system. For example, a larger bore generates more splitting force.

To retract the piston rod, hydraulic fluid is redirected to the opposite side of the piston while the fluid from the base end is released back to the reservoir. This motion resets the splitter for the next log.

The log splitter hydraulic cylinder’s reliability, power, and precision make it ideal for splitting logs of various sizes, ensuring consistent performance in both residential and industrial applications.

Log Splitter Hydraulic Cylinder Disassembly

1. Prepare the Work Area and Depressurize the System: Begin by ensuring the log splitter is on a stable surface and the hydraulic system is turned off. Relieve all pressure from the hydraulic system by opening the release valve and ensuring no residual pressure remains in the cylinder. This step is crucial to avoid accidents.
2. Disconnect the Hydraulic Hoses: Carefully detach the hydraulic hoses connected to the cylinder. Use a wrench to loosen the fittings and ensure a container is placed underneath to catch any hydraulic fluid that may leak. Seal the hose ends to prevent contamination of the hydraulic system.
3. Remove the Cylinder from the Log Splitter: Unbolt the hydraulic cylinder from the log splitter frame by removing all mounting bolts and pins. Support the cylinder securely while detaching it to prevent damage or injury, as the cylinders can be heavy and awkward to handle.
4. Open the Cylinder End Cap: Using a spanner wrench or a pipe wrench, unscrew the cylinder’s end cap. This step may require effort, as the end cap is tightly secured to prevent leaks. Be careful not to damage the threads or sealing surfaces during this process.
5. Remove the Piston Rod Assembly: Once the end cap is removed, carefully pull out the piston rod assembly from the cylinder barrel. This includes the piston, piston rod, and seals. Inspect the components for wear or damage as they are removed, noting their order for reassembly.
6. Inspect and Clean All Components: Thoroughly clean all disassembled components using a suitable solvent to remove dirt, debris, and old hydraulic fluid. Inspect the seals, piston, rod, and barrel for wear, cracks, or damage. Replace any worn parts before reassembly to ensure proper function.

Selecting the Right Hydraulic Cylinder for Log Splitter

When considering the purchase of a log splitter hydraulic cylinder, it is important to evaluate key specifications such as:

• Bore Diameter: The bore diameter of a hydraulic cylinder determines the force it can generate, critical for splitting logs effectively. It’s the internal diameter of the cylinder barrel, typically ranging from 2 to 5 inches for log splitters. A larger bore increases force but requires more hydraulic fluid and pump capacity. Choose based on log size and wood hardness to balance power and efficiency.
• Rod Diameter: The rod diameter affects the cylinder’s strength and resistance to bending under load. For log splitters, rod diameters typically range from 1 to 2 inches. A thicker rod enhances durability, especially when splitting tough hardwoods like oak or maple. It must withstand high forces without deforming. Select a rod diameter that matches the bore and expected workload to ensure longevity and prevent failure during heavy-duty splitting tasks.
• Pin Hole Diameter: The pin hole diameter refers to the size of the holes in the cylinder’s mounting points, which connect it to the log splitter frame. Typically, 1 to 1.5 inches, it must be robust enough to handle shear forces during operation. Proper sizing ensures secure attachment and smooth pivoting.

• Single or Double Acting: Single-acting cylinders extend using hydraulic pressure and retract via a spring or gravity, suitable for basic log splitters due to simplicity and lower cost. Double-acting cylinders use hydraulic pressure for both extension and retraction, offering faster cycles and better control. For high-volume or commercial log splitters, double-acting cylinders are preferred for efficiency, while single-acting suits occasional home use.
• Materials and Coatings: Hydraulic cylinders are typically made of high-strength steel to withstand high pressures and impacts. Look for cylinders with chrome-plated rods to resist corrosion and wear, especially in outdoor environments. Protective coatings like powder coating or zinc plating enhance durability against moisture and debris. Choose materials rated for heavy-duty use to ensure longevity and reliability in harsh log-splitting conditions.
• Application: The application dictates cylinder specifications based on log size, wood type, and splitting frequency. Residential log splitters for softwoods may use smaller cylinders, while commercial units splitting hardwoods require larger, double-acting cylinders for higher force and speed. Consider cycle time, portability, and power source (electric or gas) to match the cylinder to the splitter’s design and intended workload.