Are Champion Power Equipment log splitters truly the “champions” in the world of log splitting? This question often crosses my mind, especially considering the disappointment that comes with investing in a log splitter that struggles with small logs.
Drawing from my expertise and after conducting meticulous reviews, I’ve had multiple opportunities to put Champion log splitters to the test. I’ve ensured to thoroughly evaluate their performance to give you an insight that is both reliable and practical.
Reviews of the Top Champion Log Splitters
1. Champion Power Equipment 100424
I was very impressed by the Champion Power Equipment 100424 27-ton log splitter. This Champion product brought more versatility compared to other brands thanks to its horizontal and vertical operating format.
Get through larger logs thanks to its 224cc engine and extremely fast 11-second cycle period that gets the job done quickly. To save you more time, the 100424 also has an auto-return feature. There is also a handy log catcher onboard the Champion wood splitter to prevent you from having to bend too far down.
The single cylinder OHV engine has a ton of splitting power and a large splitting capacity recommended for more heavy-duty jobs.
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What I Like
- The robust 224cc single cylinder engine offers reliable and consistent power.
- Its durable cast iron sleeve ensures longevity and resilience.
- The safety feature of low oil shutdown prevents potential engine damage.
- A swift 11-second cycle time accelerates the log splitting process.
- Practical log catchers make the task more efficient, reducing wood scatter.
- The efficient 2-stage gear pump enhances hydraulic performance.
- Its EPA certification ensures it meets environmental standards.
- The spacious operator area provides comfort and ease during use.
- Being CARB compliant, it aligns with stringent air-quality regulations.
- A reassuring 2-year limited warranty covers potential manufacturing flaws.
- The perk of free lifetime tech support offers peace of mind for troubleshooting.
- The practicality of DOT-approved wheels ensures road safety during transport.
- The 2-inch ball hitch coupler simplifies attachment to vehicles.
- Its low flow/high pressure feature optimizes hydraulic performance.
What I Don’t Like
- It's not my top choice for splitting smaller logs, as it seems optimized for larger tasks.
- The placement of the exhaust deflector, when in vertical mode, can be somewhat inconvenient.
2. Champion Power Equipment 90720
The Champion Power Equipment 90720 is a log splitter that’s operating horizontally with a 20-second cycle period. To reduce your work time even more, this reliable log splitter has an auto-return feature.
In my experience with log splitters, the more compact one boasts an 80cc engine, effortlessly handling logs up to 19-inches long and weighing up to 50 pounds. From my perspective, positioning logs has never been easier, thanks to its integrated log cradle that has a thoughtful low-profile design for hassle-free loading.
When I invested in one, I was also assured with a 2-year warranty, and to top it off, they provided me with free lifetime technical support. It’s comforting to know that expert help is available if any issues arise in the future.
What I Like
- The horizontal design of the Champion splitter suits many tasks seamlessly.
- Its 80cc engine reliably powers through most log types.
- A 20-second cycle time streamlines the wood splitting process.
- The 2-year warranty offers a comforting safety net for potential issues.
- Lifetime tech support ensures I'm never alone in addressing concerns.
- The low oil shutoff feature is a handy safeguard against engine damage.
- The durable cast iron sleeve promises longevity.
- The recoil start mechanism offers a straightforward way to get it running.
- A 3000 PSI max pressure ensures effective log splitting.
- The 1.3-gallon hydraulic oil system boosts consistent performance.
- With 10-inch never-flat wheels, transport becomes less of a hassle.
- Its 50-state compliant emissions make it environmentally responsible.
What I Don’t Like
- The limitation of not being able to position it vertically is a downside for some tasks.
- It might not be my first choice when dealing with eucalyptus tree wood.
Champion Log Splitters Buyer’s Guide
Having personally spearheaded several reviews on Champion log splitters, I’ve integrated my collective experiences into each evaluation. When it comes to identifying the best Champion log splitter, I’ve come to recognize various key features. Below, I’ll share some of the most crucial ones you should be on the lookout for.
Tonnage
The tonnage is the amount of pressure force exuded by the Champion products on my list. Every product will have the tonnage clearly listed, and the higher the number, the more force the log splitter uses to split logs. Champion makes various models including a 34-ton log splitter, a 25-ton log splitter, and the ones I mentioned above.
I’ve found that the size and weight of the log directly influence the tonnage required for an efficient split. On average, based on my interactions with fellow woodworkers, 7 tons tends to be the baseline for typical firewood. Another crucial factor I always remind folks about is the type of wood. It undeniably plays a significant role in determining the necessary log splitter tonnage.
Understanding the difference between hard and soft woods as well as green and aged wood is also important. Hardwoods are from deciduous trees [1], which means trees that lose their leaves in colder months. Softwoods are from evergreen trees that keep their needles in the winter months.
Green wood is wood that has been freshly cut, while aged wood is typically at least a season old, which means they have dried against the air and is easier to cut and split.
Power Source
Your next consideration is how your Champion Power Equipment log splitter gets its power for splitting logs. You can take your pick from gas-powered wood splitters, electric options, and manual-hydraulic splitters. There are a few other types, but unless you’re working on a farm or acreage, these three are the most common types.
The best Champion wood splitters are usually gas powered. Gas splitters are more portable and aren’t restricted by a power cable. The size can also vary from easy to wheel around models to commercial-sized workhorses.
Gas splitters are the way to go if you’re looking for a long-term investment and require significant splitting power. However, it’s essential to be aware that they do demand more maintenance. And from my experience, they can be quite loud and emit fumes, so it’s best to use them outdoors.
You can also find gas options that have a horizontal/vertical full beam log splitter, which increases the versatility of your machine.
On the other hand, electric models can be used in your garage or workshop, and they are also portable in terms of size and weight. However, you always have to be sure you are near a power source, which limits your options outdoors.
They also aren’t as powerful as a gas-powered machine, and can usually handle small to medium-sized logs but not larger than 20 inches in most cases. Unfortunately, electric models don’t usually include horizontal/vertical full beam features.
From my experience, the manual-hydraulic models use a combination of the user’s physical strength and hydraulic oil to split logs. While you’ll come across both horizontal and vertical designs in this category, I typically recommend them for small to medium-sized logs. But I must admit, these manual-hydraulic log splitters impress with their efficiency.
My tests showed that gas-powered are preferred among many of professionals, but there are some that appreciate the efficiency and lightweight profiles of the other two types as well.
Return Speed and Efficiency
The efficiency of the Champion Power Equipment splitter can be determined by its cycle period, which is the time it takes to process a single log. I suggest that the average cycle time is 10 to 20 seconds. Naturally, a shorter cycle time indicates a more efficient and effective machine.
Look for auto-return features, which return the piston back to its original position after each split. It saves you time without having to manually put the piston back in place.
Champion: History and Technology
Headquartered in Santa Fe Springs, California, the Champion brand has made a name for itself since 2003 and has expanded its operations to at least two other states and there is even a facility in Toronto, Canada.
Aside from log splitters, Champion Power Equipment also features generators, chipper shredders, pressure washers, snowblowers, and other lawn and garden accessories.
Champion prides itself in its endless innovation, which includes CO Shield, which is a carbon monoxide auto-shutoff function, and EFI (Fuel Injection Technology).
You can also find dual fuel portable generators, which allow generators from the brand to operate on both propane and gasoline. You can switch from one source to another simply and safely.
Lastly, you can also see Wireless Start Technology, which allows users to start up their generators from up to an 80-foot distance.
Customer Support
It’s very clear to me that Champion prides itself in impeccable customer service. Aside from offer a 2-year limited warranty on the company’s wood splitters, their products also come with free lifetime technical support.
The brand claims to have legendary customer support from certified technicians in the states and in Canada. You can email them or reach out to them via their social media platforms and they usually get back to you within the hour or by the end of the day.
In my years of woodworking, I’ve come to realize how invaluable stellar customer support is. Not only does it elevate the overall customer experience, but it’s also crucial when you need to address warranty issues. Investing in a log splitting machine isn’t trivial, and having friendly and responsive customer service truly makes a world of difference.
FAQ
Who makes the engine on Champion log splitters?
Champion makes the engine on Champion log splitters. From what I can gather from detailed reviews, the engines are the house brand OHV (overhead valve) engines, but some of their products such as the towable 27-ton log splitter have the Honda GX200 engine.
My Top Pick For a Champion Log Splitter:
Champion Power Equipment 90720
The 90720 is the clear winner after a very detailed Champion log splitter review. I say the 7-ton power the machine produces is just the right amount for everyday tasks and average-sized logs. The Champion 90720 features a 1.3-gallon fuel tank an auto-returning valve, wheels for easy portability, and a durable design with a cast iron sleeve and a log cradle for loading.
Other products to try:
You've probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
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