Best PTO Wood Chippers for the Money: In-Depth Reviews & Comparisons
- March 19, 2024
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Power Take-Off (PTO) wood chippers are an invaluable tool for anyone needing to manage large amounts of wood debris efficiently. Whether you’re a landscaper, farmer, or a homeowner with a sizable property, a PTO wood chipper can drastically reduce your workload. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about PTO wood chippers, from understanding the basics to maintenance tips.
List of Best PTO Wood Chippers
- Great Circle 3-in-1 Wood Chipper/Mulcher
- Titan Attachments 3 Point PTO Driven Wood Chipper
- CSV-2515 Electric Wood Chipper Leaf Shredder
- Snow Joe CJ602E Electric Wood Chipper
- PTO Wood Chipper 3 Point Shredder Mulcher Tractor Attachment
- BX42R 5″ PTO Tractor Wood Chipper with Hydraulic Infeed
- NorTrac PTO Chipper – 5 1/2in Capacity
Top Picks of PTO Wood Chipper 2024
1. Great Circle 3-in-1 Wood Chipper/Mulcher
Technical Specs
- Engine: 7 HP gas engine
- Maximum branch diameter: 3 inches (some user reports suggest up to 2 inches for shredding)
- Multi-function: Chipping, Shredding, Mulching
- EPA/CARB certified: Meets emission standards
This versatile wood chipper from Great Circle, a reputable manufacturer of high-quality garden and outdoor equipment, efficiently processes heaps of branches. Featuring a robust gas-powered motor, precision-cut blades, and an ample-sized feed chute, this machine effortlessly handles branches up to three inches thick. Its portability is enhanced by its built-in wheels, facilitating easy relocation.
Moreover, this machine is distinguished by an impressive 15-to-1 debris reduction capability, effectively compressing what would normally fill 15 bags into just one. For added convenience, there’s an optional leaf vacuum kit available for purchase, which allows for the easy collection of leaves and small debris without the need for stooping.
Pros and Cons of Great Circle 3-in-1 Wood Chipper/Mulcher
Pros
- Versatile: Chips branches, shreds leaves, mulches yard waste.
- Compact: Easy to maneuver around your yard.
- Durable: Steel construction with good user ratings for durability.
Cons
- Limited capacity: Max 3″ branches (reportedly 2″ for shredding).
- Less powerful engine compared to heavy duty chippers.
- Bag doesn’t attach well (reported by users).
2. Titan Attachments 3 Point PTO Driven Wood Chipper
Technical Specs
- Rotor Diameter: 25-in. or 30-in.
- Rotor Thickness: 0.5-in.
- Drive Type: PTO
- Tractor Compatibility: Up to 60 HP
- Operational RPM: 540 – 1,000
- Finish: Powder-Coated Orange
- Material: Steel
- Rotor Weight: 75 lb. or 197 lb.
- Total Weight: 431 lb. or 850 lb.
The Wood Chipper Attachments are a heavy-duty mulcher integrated with a 3 Point Hitch System and PTO on your tractor for easy transport, operation, and storage. Additionally, these chippers have a hinged feed chute that can be removed to make them more compact when not in use. This shredder mulcher features a fully adjustable exit chute, oversized rotor, reversible blades, and integrated air vents. It provides efficient wood processing with an operational RPM rate of 540 – 1,000. The rotor itself has a diameter of 25″ or 30″, with a thickness of 0.5″. The blades on the rotors work to eliminate wood that can block or clog the chipper. These machines are recommended for use with tractors up to 60 HP and work with most major brands’ models.
Pros and Cons of Titan Attachments 3 Point PTO Driven Wood Chipper
Pros
- Turns tractor into wood chipper
- Makes mulch or fuel from branches
- Affordable compared to commercial chippers
Cons
- Requires compatible tractor (up to 60 HP)
- Can be heavy (431-850 lbs)
3. CSV-2515 Electric Wood Chipper Leaf Shredder
The Patriot CSV-2515 Electric Wood Chipper Leaf Shredder is a powerful electric chipper shredder that can handle branches up to 2.5 inches in diameter. It is also ideal for shredding leaves. This machine is perfect for those who want a convenient and environmentally friendly way to dispose of yard waste.
Pros and Cons of CSV-2515 Electric Wood Chipper Leaf Shredder
Pros
- Electric powered: No gas or oil needed, making it environmentally friendly and easier to start than gas-powered models.
- Relatively quiet: Electric motor means less noise pollution compared to gas chipper shredders.
- Easy to use: Turns on with a switch and doesn’t require complex operation.
- Compact and portable: Less than 100 lbs with wheels for easy maneuvering around your yard.
- Suitable for small yards: Handles branches up to 2.5 inches and works well for shredding leaves, perfect for homeowners with limited yard waste.
Cons
- Limited power: Compared to gas-powered models, the 1.5 hp motor may struggle with thicker branches or large volumes of material.
- Slow feeding required: To avoid clogging and stalling the motor, you need to feed branches and leaves slowly.
- Messy operation: Some users report that the bagging system isn’t the best, and chips and dust can fly out during operation.
- Potentially expensive: While there’s no gas or oil to buy, the upfront cost of the unit might be high for some.
4. Snow Joe CJ602E Electric Wood Chipper
Technical Specs
- Motor: 15 Amp electric
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Chipping Capacity: Up to 1.5-inch diameter branches
- Shredding Capacity: Up to 1/2-inch diameter branches
- Reduction Ratio: 17:1 (meaning it reduces material to 1/17th of its original size)
- Weight: 26.2 pounds
- Dimensions: 19.25″ L x 16.25″ W
- Safety Features: Locking hopper knob that prevents motor operation when open
- Assembly: No assembly required
The Sun Joe CJ602E-RED is a corded electric wood chipper/shredder that is ideal for light-duty jobs around the yard. It is powered by a 15-amp motor that can chip and shred branches up to 1.5 inches thick. The shredded material can then be used as mulch around trees and flower beds.
Pros and Cons of Snow Joe CJ602E Electric Wood Chipper
Pros
- Affordable: Compared to gas-powered chippers, the Sun Joe CJ602E-RED is a budget-friendly option.
- Electric Powered: No need to deal with gas, oil, or fumes. Easier to start and requires less maintenance.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to maneuver around the yard and store when not in use.
- Relatively Quiet: Electric motor makes less noise than gas-powered models.
- Easy to Use: Simple assembly (or no assembly required according to some sources) and operation.
- Good for Light Duty Chipping: Handles small branches, twigs, and some leafy materials well.
- Safety Features: Locking hopper knob prevents accidental starts.
Cons
- Limited Chipping Capacity: Can only handle branches up to 1.5 inches thick. Not suitable for larger or thicker branches.
- Not Great with Hardwoods: May struggle with chipping certain types of hard wood.
- Corded Electric: Requires access to an outlet and limits your working range by the length of the cord.
- Less Powerful Than Gas Models: May not be suitable for large jobs or continuous chipping.
- Quality Concerns: Some users report that the blades may dull quickly and require replacement.
- May Not Shred Leaves Effectively: Not ideal for large quantities of leaves.
5. PTO Wood Chipper 3 Point Shredder Mulcher Tractor Attachment
Technical Specs
- PTO-powered wood chipper attachment for tractors
- Mounts to 3-point hitch for easy use
- Chips branches, logs, and woody debris
- Creates wood chips for mulch, compost, or fuel
- Various sizes to handle tractors and branch diameters
A PTO wood chipper, 3 point shredder mulcher, or tractor attachment is a piece of farm equipment that is used to chip up branches, logs, and other woody debris. It is powered by the tractor’s PTO (power take-off) shaft and mounts to the tractor’s 3-point hitch
Pros and Cons of PTO Wood Chipper 3 Point Shredder Mulcher
Pros
- High Power: PTO chippers are much more powerful than electric or gas-powered chippers. This allows them to handle larger branches (up to 8 inches in diameter) and tougher materials.
- Efficiency: They can chip large volumes of material quickly, making them ideal for large properties or frequent use.
- Cost-effective in the long run: While the initial investment might be higher, PTO chippers require less maintenance and fuel compared to gas-powered models.
- Creates Usable Product: The wood chips produced can be a valuable resource for mulch, compost, or even biofuel.
Cons
- Requires a Tractor: You need a tractor with sufficient horsepower (typically 18-50 HP) and a compatible 3-point hitch to operate a PTO chipper. This adds a significant cost if you don’t already own a tractor.
- Limited Maneuverability: PTO chippers are bulky and require a tractor to move them around. This can be inconvenient for working in tight spaces.
- Safety Concerns: PTO chippers can be dangerous if not operated properly. Proper safety gear like gloves, ear protection, and eye protection is crucial.
- Not ideal for small jobs: If you only have a small amount of debris to chip, a PTO chipper might be overkill.
6. BX42R 5″ PTO Tractor Wood Chipper with Hydraulic Infeed
Technical Specs
- Infeed: 5″ x 10″
- Chipping capacity: Up to 5″ diameter branches
- PTO: Minimum 18HP
- Knives: 4 reversible carbon steel + 1 counter knife
- Hitch: 3-point hitch for CAT I tractors
- Weight: 845 lbs
- Flywheel diameter: 26″
The BX510H is a wood chipper that is specifically designed for use with CAT I tractors. It has a hydraulic infeed system that helps to pull branches into the chipper, and it can chip branches up to 5 inches in diameter. This wood chipper is a great option for those who need to clear brush or limbs from their property.
Pros and Cons of BX42R 5″ PTO Tractor Wood Chipper
Pros
- Hydraulic infeed system: This system helps to pull branches into the chipper, which can save you time and effort.
- Can chip up to 5-inch diameter branches: This is a good size capacity for a chipper for residential use.
- PTO powered: This means that you can use the chipper with your existing tractor, which can save you money on having to buy a separate engine.
- Reversible knives: This means that you can sharpen the knives multiple times before they need to be replaced.
Cons
- Requires a minimum of 18 HP tractor: This may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with smaller tractors.
- Heavy: At 845 lbs, this is a heavy chipper that may be difficult to maneuver for some people.
- Limited information: There is not a lot of information readily available about this specific chipper model, so it may be difficult to find reviews or troubleshooting information.
7. NorTrac PTO Chipper – 5 1/2in Capacity
Technical Specs
- Brand: NorTrac
- Manufacture Warranty: 2-year limited warranty
- Ship Weight: 350.0 LB
- Max Cutting Thickness: 5.5 in
- HP Requirement: At least 20 HP
- PTO Requirement: 6-tooth spline PTO at 540 RPM
- Hopper Design: Large vertically oriented hopper opening that requires less pruning.
- Feeding System: Hopper chute is angled for self-feeding of brush into the chipping knife.
A PTO chipper with a 5.5-inch capacity is a machine that attaches to a tractor’s power take-off (PTO) and is used to chip up branches and other woody debris. It is a great way to reduce the amount of waste that needs to be hauled away, and the resulting chips can be used for mulch or firewood.
Pros and Cons of NorTrac PTO Chipper
Pros
- Reduces yard waste: A PTO chipper can help you reduce the amount of yard waste that you need to haul away. This can save you time and money on trash collection fees.
- Creates mulch: The chips that are produced by a PTO chipper can be used as mulch for your flower beds and gardens. Mulch helps to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Can be used for firewood: The larger chips that are produced by a PTO chipper can be used for firewood. This is a great way to save money on heating costs.
- Relatively affordable: PTO chippers with a 5.5-inch capacity are relatively affordable compared to larger PTO chippers.
Cons
- Requires a tractor: In order to use a PTO chipper, you need to have a tractor with a PTO (power take-off). If you don’t have a tractor, you will need to rent one or hire someone to chip your yard waste for you.
- Not suitable for large branches: A PTO chipper with a 5.5-inch capacity is not suitable for chipping up large branches. If you have a lot of large branches, you will need to rent a larger PTO chipper or hire someone to chip them up for you.
- Noisy: PTO chippers can be quite noisy. You may want to wear hearing protection when using one.
- Safety hazards: PTO chippers can be dangerous if not used properly. It is important to read the operator’s manual carefully before using one and to wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves, goggles, and ear protection.
What’s the Purpose of a PTO Wood Chipper?
- For eliminating combustible vegetation from your land;
- For disposing of brush heaps that may harbor rodents and other nuisances;
- For the effective maintenance of bushes, saplings, and other undesired plant growth;
- For creating mulch for garden beds;
- For crafting wood chips suitable for landscaping paths and other decorative purposes.
Owning a tractor, or planning to acquire one, brings to light two significant advantages of opting for a PTO chipper over its standalone gas or electric counterparts: enhanced mobility and superior power. PTO chippers leverage the tractor’s engine for energy, making them exceptionally potent for processing thick branches.
Factors to Keep in Mind When Purchasing a PTO Wood Chipper
- Feeding mechanism: Certain models come equipped with a built-in hydraulic pump that drives a feeding belt, enhancing the chipping process and accommodating larger logs. Alternatively, models without this feature rely on manual feeding, tend to be more affordable, but generally can only manage logs up to four inches in thickness.
- Suitability with your tractor: It’s essential to ensure that the wood chipper you’re interested in is compatible with your tractor, particularly in terms of hitch type and power capacity.
- Equipment weight: The flywheel often constitutes the bulk of the chipper’s weight, with many tipping the scales at approximately 200 pounds. If you’re eyeing a heavier model, confirm that your tractor can support the additional weight.
- Chip size customization: While some chippers offer the flexibility to modify the size of the wood chips produced, this feature isn’t universal.
- Price range: Wood chippers can vary significantly in price, from about $1,000 to over $20,000, depending on their capabilities and intended use. For general use, models priced between $3,000 and $5,000 typically suffice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when selecting a PTO wood chipper, it’s crucial to consider a range of factors to ensure you find a model that best suits your needs. From the type of feeding mechanism and compatibility with your tractor, to the weight of the equipment and the ability to adjust chip size, each aspect plays a significant role in the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the chipper. Additionally, balancing your budget with the chipper’s capabilities will help you make a cost-effective decision without compromising on the quality of work. By carefully evaluating these considerations, you can invest in a PTO wood chipper that enhances your property management efforts, making it an invaluable tool for maintaining your land.
FAQs
1. What is a PTO wood chipper?
A PTO (Power Take-Off) wood chipper is a type of chipper that connects to and is powered by the tractor’s engine. It is used for breaking down branches, limbs, and other organic debris into smaller wood chips.
2. How does a PTO wood chipper differ from other chippers?
PTO wood chippers are distinct because they harness the power from a tractor’s engine, which generally allows them to handle larger, tougher material and operate more efficiently in heavy-duty conditions compared to standalone electric or gas-powered chippers.
3. What should I consider when buying a PTO wood chipper?
Key considerations include the feeding mechanism (manual or hydraulic), compatibility with your tractor (hitch type and power), weight capacity of your tractor for the chipper, the option to adjust chip sizes, and your budget.
4. Can I adjust the size of the wood chips produced by my PTO wood chipper?
Some PTO wood chippers offer adjustable settings to control the size of the wood chips produced, but this feature varies by model. It’s important to check the specifications or consult with the manufacturer.
5. What is the typical price range for a PTO wood chipper?
Prices can vary widely, from around $1,000 for basic models to over $20,000 for heavy-duty, professional-grade chippers. For most users, a chipper in the $3,000 to $5,000 range should be adequate for general tasks.
6. How important is the tractor’s compatibility with the wood chipper?
It’s crucial to ensure the wood chipper is compatible with your tractor, as mismatches can lead to inefficient operation or damage to either the tractor or the chipper. Check the power output and hitch type requirements before purchasing.
7. Do all PTO wood chippers come with a hydraulic feed system?
No, not all PTO wood chippers have a hydraulic feed system. Some models require manual feeding of materials, which can be more labor-intensive but also more cost-effective.
8. How heavy is a typical PTO wood chipper?
The weight can vary, but the flywheel, which is typically the heaviest part, can weigh around 200 pounds. Ensure your tractor can handle the weight of the chipper, especially if you’re considering a heavier model.
9. Is it worth investing in a high-end PTO wood chipper?
If you frequently deal with large volumes of wood or have commercial needs, investing in a high-end model might be worthwhile for its durability, efficiency, and capacity to handle larger material.
10. Can I use a PTO wood chipper for commercial purposes?
Yes, many PTO wood chippers are suitable for commercial use, especially models designed for heavy-duty tasks and those that can handle larger diameters of wood. Ensure the chipper meets the specific requirements for your commercial projects.
Joel Cunningham
Forestry AuthorI'm Joel Cunningham, an expert in pruning and weed management with over a decade of experience. My skills are rooted in formal training and extensive practice, focusing on advanced pruning techniques and efficient weed control. I'm known for my quality work, precision, and deep understanding of plant health and soil dynamics. My contributions extend to educational initiatives where I share sustainable practices and advice, establishing myself as a reliable and authoritative figure in the gardening community.
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