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 Specifications
- 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
- Versatile functionality allows for chipping, shredding, and mulching, enhancing yard cleanup efficiency.
- Compact design with built-in wheels enhances mobility around the yard.
- Robust 7 HP gas engine handles branches up to three inches, providing substantial power for various tasks.
- Durable steel construction increases longevity and user ratings confirm its durability.
Cons
- Limited to a maximum of 3-inch branches, with some reports suggesting better performance up to 2 inches, potentially overstating its capabilities.
- Gas engine requires more maintenance and is noisier than electric models.
- Potential difficulty in maneuvering due to weight, particularly on uneven terrain.
2. Titan Attachments 3 Point PTO Driven Wood Chipper
Technical Specifications
- 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
- Highly efficient for large-scale chipping when attached to a tractor.
- Durable design with a heavy-duty rotor and reversible blades extends the life of the equipment.
- Suitable for use with up to 60 HP tractors, making it robust for extensive tasks.
Cons
- High price point makes it less accessible for casual or non-commercial users.
- Requires a compatible tractor for operation, limiting its usability to those who already possess or have access to one.
- Hefty weight makes it difficult to install and move.
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
- Electric operation eliminates the need for gas, offering an environmentally friendly solution.
- Quieter operation compared to gas models, suitable for residential areas.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver, with wheels for additional portability.
Cons
- Less powerful than gas models, which may struggle with thicker or harder woods.
- Requires careful feeding to prevent clogging, demanding more attention during use.
- Higher upfront cost compared to some gas models, although savings on fuel and maintenance may offset this.
4. Snow Joe CJ602E Electric Wood Chipper
Technical Specifications
- 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
- Affordable and cost-effective for those on a budget.
- Electric power means no gas fumes and lower ongoing costs.
- Compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and store.
Cons
- Limited to 1.5-inch thick branches, making it unsuitable for larger yard debris.
- Electric cord restricts mobility, requiring proximity to a power outlet.
- Less power might not handle certain tasks, necessitating multiple passes over the same area.
5. PTO Wood Chipper 3 Point Shredder Mulcher Tractor Attachment
Technical Specifications
- Capacity: Chips wood up to 4-8 inches.
- Material: Made of tough steel.
- Output: Makes wood chips or mulch.
- Capacity: Chips wood up to 4-8 inches.
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
- Extremely powerful, handling large volumes of material quickly.
- Chips large branches efficiently, producing usable mulch or compost.
- Cost-effective over the long term with minimal maintenance compared to gas models.
Cons
- Requires a tractor, which is a significant additional investment if not already available.
- Bulky and heavy, requiring ample storage space and making it hard to maneuver.
- High initial cost and potentially dangerous if not used properly.
6. BX42R 5″ PTO Tractor Wood Chipper with Hydraulic Infeed
Technical Specifications
- 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 saves time and effort by pulling branches into the chipper.
- Handles branches up to 5 inches in diameter, suitable for many residential and commercial uses.
- PTO operation leverages existing tractor power, avoiding the need for an additional engine.
Cons
- Requires at least an 18 HP tractor, which may be prohibitive for some users.
- Heavy and bulky, possibly challenging to store and maneuver.
- Limited availability of reviews and detailed information may deter potential users.
7. NorTrac PTO Chipper – 5 1/2in Capacity
Technical Specifications
- 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
- Reduces large amounts of yard waste efficiently, saving on disposal fees.
- Produces high-quality mulch suitable for gardening or landscaping.
- More affordable than larger commercial chippers, providing a good balance of price and performance.
Cons
- Requires access to a tractor with a PTO, which not all users have.
- Not suitable for chipping very large branches or trees, which might require commercial equipment.
- Can be noisy and requires careful handling to ensure safety.
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;
- 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
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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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