HF Electric Log splitter tripping breaker

[tdot_steve]

This is the "5 ton" model from Harbor Freight. This is my 3rd year using it. For big jobs I tend to use my neighbours gas splitter. I've split what I estimate to be around 5 bush cords with this electric splitter.

Anyways, it always worked fine until 3 weeks ago when it tripped the breaker on my GFI outlet in the middle of splitting. Now when I reset it will run for around 3 seconds and then trips the breaker again. I google'd the issue and it seems some people with a similar issue replaced the capacitor. I found someone locally that had the same size capacitor and replaced it. Unfortunately I still get the same issue. I also tried plugging in directly with no extension cord and got the same result.

Does anyone have any ideas? I guess it's likely the motor at this point? Is there anywhere that sells a direct replacement?

 

[BenTN]

Replace the outlet. Is it a 15a or 20a?

Is it tripping the outlet or the breaker?

 

[tdot_steve]

Replace the outlet. Is it a 15a or 20a?

Is it tripping the outlet or the breaker?

It's a 20a GFI outlet. The breaker tripped once though. I tested my electric wood chipper using the same outlet and it was fine. I'll plug it in inside and see what happens.

 

[BenTN]

Hmm. If it is tripping the breaker also, i would suspect the motor like you stated. Finding the right motor with same mounts, rpm, voltage, rotation and hp could prove difficult or may cost as much as a new splitter from HF. I have used http://www.electricmotorwarehouse.com/ for fan motors with fast delivery.