Allis Chalmers D17 and Log Splitter questions.

Wanting to know what it takes to run a log splitter. Already have a homemade splitter that was made to run off a tractor, but it's just the I-beam, cylinder, and hoses. No valve.

From what I've been reading the D17's hydraulics are lift only, then float down.

I've read a bit about adding two way cylinders and the return line to the tank, question is- Do I need a open center 4-way valve, or closed center?

I have the idea in my head that I can connect to the tractors current rear port, route a line to an open center valve and then a return line back to the tank and all would be good, but would rather hear from someone in the know before I spend money on parts.

Thanks in advance!

Doug

I do have a couple belt driven pumps that could possibly be converted to shaft drive from the PTO or Crank, just not sure if they would exceed what the tractor already has for flow and pressure.

My plan is pretty much what Goose wrote in his first paragraph with the open center valve that Bob confirmed for me.

I think I"ll try it that way first as adding the pump-etc. could be done later, will post up if it"s successful or not.
Cylinder is 6"x24" long. Figure it will have plenty of power for splitting, just don"t want dreadfully long cycle times.

Add a pto pump,supply tank and contol valve. It would be a better setup then trying to use tractor hydraulics.

steveormary

The lift arms on the D series are one way, but I believe they also have at least one two way hook-up to the rear. My D19 has two two way valves on to the rear and a one way valve that can select between the lift arms and a single acting remote cylinder.

I did the same thing with a VAC Case once, but as I recall I ran a separate pump off the PTO instead of using the tractor's pump.