Duerr log splitter?

My dad picked up a Duerr log splitter yesterday for $400. He said it looks like the engine (5 HP Briggs) is tired, but otherwise its in good shape. I haven't seen it yet but will post pics later today. From what he's told me its probably similar to this one I found online:



The one in the picture is rated for 25 tons-the one my dad purchased is rated for 20, but same idea-vertical capability, integrated tank and axle, wedge mounted on the ram, etc... Are these MTDs? I figure its a good deal either way because the rest of the machine looks good (good tires, no leaks or questionable looking hoses) and he was able to start it and split some wood with it. The plan is to swap the tired engine out for the 5 HP I/C Gold Briggs that currently powers my Lickety Splitter, and to throw an old snowblower (my pops runs a small equipment repair business) engine onto that and put it up for sale. This one will be much easier on the back than the old Lickety Splitter. I figure I'll also throw a new filter on it and change the hydraulic fluid-should I replace with ATF? If so, what kind? NAPA should be able to supply the new hydraulic filter.

MasterMech said:

Congrats on the good find! I'd stick to a good hydraulic/tractor fluid as it's usually cheaper than ATF and just as well suited. You don't need all the additives in ATF to run it as a hydraulic fluid and "tractor" hydraulic oil has all the high-temp/high-pressure protection you need. Tractor Supply was selling their brand for $35-$40 for a 5 gal pail.

That said, I have been eyeing some mighty pricey oils to run in my splitter to keep the fluid temps down when I split over the summer.

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Thanks-I don't know much about the differences in the fluids-I had just heard that many new splitters use ATF. If plain old hydraulic fluid is cheaper that works for me, especially since as you said it's sold in bulk and cheaper! I still haven't gotten over to my parents' to take a look at it, but my dad said it's marked "PRO" is that just MTD marketing bs, or is this one a little beefier than the average box store splitter?

Crappy cell phone pics:





It actually looks really similar to a unit I rented a couple of years ago before I bought my current splitter.

BrotherBart said:

The original filter is a Luberfiner LFP-1652. I have had that splitter since 1988. Running universal ATF. I have intended to change that fluid and filter every year. And never get around to it. :red:

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Is mine basically the exact same as yours BB? On mine there is a Fram that looks relatively fresh and the return line looks like it was replaced at one point. I'm hoping that my 5HP Briggs I/C will swap onto it-gotta measure the shaft size when I get home.