How Heavy Is a 27 Ton Log Splitter: Weight and Towing Guide

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The quick answer

Expect a gas hydraulic log splitter in the 27 ton range to weigh between light utility frames and heavy commercial splitters. Portable models like the Mutaomay 20 ton unit list at 133 pounds and the SuperHandy 25 ton unit list at 245 pounds. In contrast, full-size towable units like the BILT HARD 35 ton model weigh 640 pounds, and reinforced machines like the FULL BOAR 35 ton splitter reach 1045 pounds. Plan storage and transport knowing a 27 ton machine cannot be lifted by an unassisted person. Read our guide on what size log can a 27 ton log splitter split.

How Heavy Is a 27 Ton Log Splitter

Delivering 27 tons of hydraulic splitting force creates massive stress against the wedge, footplate, and central beam. Lighter utility frames can deflect under extreme tonnage, so makers build this class with thick structural steel plates, reinforced welds, and heavy brackets.

Many splitters in the 27 ton category are horizontal and vertical dual-position splitters. Rotating the beam upright lets you roll heavy rounds onto the footplate without lifting. However, the heavy pivot hinge, locking pin, and beam brackets add substantial steel to the chassis. Compare setups in our guide on horizontal vs vertical log splitters and see our best vertical log splitters guide.

Log splitter weight comparison chart

Published figures from manufacturer listings show how frame style and equipment shape total machine weight.

Splitter model	Splitting force	Listed weight	Key components
Mutaomay Gas Log Splitter	20 tons	133 pounds	7HP engine, 10-inch tires, 8-second cycle time
SuperHandy Gas Log Splitter	25 tons	245 pounds	Steel wedge, transport wheels, ergonomic handle
BILT HARD Hydraulic Splitter	35 tons	640 pounds	301cc engine, 7-gallon hydraulic system, 16-inch tires
FULL BOAR Gas Log Splitter	35 tons	1045 pounds	306cc engine, box beam frame, 700 lbs hydraulic log lift

Compact units prioritize portability, as seen in the 20 ton Mutaomay at 133 pounds. Meanwhile, the FULL BOAR 35 ton unit reaches 1045 pounds with its box beam frame and hydraulic log lift rated to hoist rounds up to 700 lbs. Watch for listing contradictions: the BILT HARD 40-Ton model publishes an item weight of 76 pounds in its spec table despite carrying a 389cc engine, a 40 ton ram, and a 7-gallon oil tank. That 76-pound figure is an obvious listing clerical error.

What makes a log splitter heavy

A gas hydraulic log splitter combines several heavy industrial parts that handle high hydraulic force.

The structural steel beam and frame

The central beam is the heaviest structural part on the machine. During splitting, the ram pushes against the log while the beam resists opposing force. The FULL BOAR 35 ton model uses a rigid box beam design, while BILT HARD splitters utilize a heavy full-beam frame to prevent deflection under heavy loads.

The engine block

A 27 ton hydraulic system needs a durable 4-stroke overhead valve gas engine. While smaller models like the 20 ton Mutaomay use a 7HP engine, heavier splitters rely on larger displacement. The BILT HARD 35 ton machine runs a 301cc OHV engine, the FULL BOAR uses a 306cc engine, and the BILT HARD 40-Ton model features a 389cc engine rated at 13 HP, adding cast-iron mass to the chassis.

The hydraulic cylinder and fluid reservoir

The cylinder consists of a thick-walled steel tube with a solid chrome-plated piston rod, powered by a 2 stage gear pump. The reservoir must hold adequate fluid: BILT HARD splitters use a 7-gallon hydraulic oil system running at 14 GPM. Filled fluid adds significant weight to the machine. For fluid types, read what hydraulic fluid for a log splitter.

Wedges and splitting accessories

Splitting wedges require solid steel. BILT HARD models feature an 8-inch hardened steel wedge. Multi-wedge parts add further weight: the FULL BOAR includes interchangeable 4-way and 6-way blades alongside a hydraulic wedge height adjustment mechanism offering 3.55 inches of range.

Towing and moving a heavy log splitter

Transporting a machine weighing hundreds of pounds requires proper equipment and safe practices.

Ball couplers and road transport

Not all log splitters can be towed on public roads. Road-towable units require highway-certified hardware. For example, BILT HARD models specify a 2-inch ball coupler, 24-inch safety chains, and 16-inch DOT-certified tires approved for towing up to 45 MPH. Secure the latch pin and cross safety chains beneath the tongue. For transport rules, see our article on can you tow a log splitter on the road.

Yard positioning and woodpile setup

Muscling a 640-pound splitter across damp turf by hand risks serious strain. Use an ATV, UTV, riding mower, or garden tractor to position equipment by the woodpile. Once in place, unhitch on level ground and chock both wheels with solid wooden blocks before unlatching the support stand.

Safe operation on the woodpile

Operating hydraulic equipment requires strict safety discipline under 27 tons of force.

• One operator: Only one person must control the hydraulic lever and handle logs. Never let a helper steady a round while another operates the valve.
• Hands clear of the wedge: Grip logs by the outer sides, never on the cut ends facing the splitting wedge or footplate. Keep hands well clear of the stroke.
• Eye protection: Always wear ANSI-approved safety glasses or a face shield against flying splinters.

OSHA logging safety guidelines emphasize keeping bystanders clear. Maintain equipment with our guide on log splitter maintenance and check our log splitter safety rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can one person move a 27 ton log splitter by hand?

On smooth, level concrete, a balanced splitter can be guided by a single operator using the tongue handle. However, moving across soft turf or gravel by hand is difficult. While a 20 ton Mutaomay weighs 133 pounds, heavy full-beam units like the 640-pound BILT HARD require an ATV, UTV, or lawn tractor to move safely across the yard.

Can you tow a 27 ton log splitter on the road?

Only if the machine features DOT-certified highway tires, safety chains, and required reflectors. BILT HARD splitters feature 16-inch DOT-certified tires and a 2-inch ball coupler with 24-inch safety chains rated for towing at speeds up to 45 MPH. Always verify highway transit rules before road travel.

How much weight does hydraulic oil add to a splitter?

Hydraulic fluid contributes noticeable weight. BILT HARD listings specify a 7-gallon hydraulic oil capacity. Along with engine oil and fuel, operating fluids add substantial weight compared to dry shipping specifications.

What vehicle do you need to tow a 27 ton log splitter?

Around the property, an ATV, UTV, garden tractor, or riding mower provides ample power. For road transport, an SUV or truck with an appropriate hitch rating is required, matching the 2-inch ball coupler specified on BILT HARD towable splitters.

Why are horizontal vertical splitters heavier than horizontal only models?

Dual-position splitters require heavy pivot pins, latch mechanisms, cradle brackets, and balance handles to tilt the beam safely between horizontal and vertical modes. These reinforced steel parts add weight over benchtop splitters.

Does a heavier log splitter perform better?

Added weight reflects thicker steel, larger tanks, and heavier engine blocks. The FULL BOAR 35 ton machine reaches 1045 pounds with its box beam frame and hydraulic log lift handling logs up to 700 lbs. However, splitting force comes from hydraulic tonnage and engine power. Check our guide on what size log splitter do I need.

Related guides

See the log splitters hub, our overview of gas log splitters, and our guide to the best gas log splitters. When evaluating machine features, check our guide on horizontal vs vertical log splitters and explore top models in our best vertical log splitters comparison. For home woodlots, read our guide to the best log splitters for home use and learn about budget options in our cheap wood splitters review. Planning transport and setup? Check can you tow a log splitter on the road and read our advice on how to move heavy logs safely. Also see our what size log can a 27 ton log splitter split. Also see our what size log splitter do I need. Also see our log splitter safety rules. Also see our log splitter maintenance. Also see our what hydraulic fluid for a log splitter. Also see our how does a log splitter work. Also see our why is my log splitter slow. Also see our why wont my log splitter split. Also see our kinetic vs hydraulic log splitter. Also see our best log splitter cover. Cutting timber before splitting? Check our guide to the best chainsaw for firewood, or split smaller kindling rounds with the best splitting maul and the best splitting axe.