small gravity fed chippers yay or nay?

[Dilz]

Never really used a small gravity fed wood chipper before - only bigger PTO ones  - for narrow access jobs and dragging around narrow tracks by ATV or power barrow -  considering something  that takes 4" (10cm for the youths ) e.g TB100  and anything that doesn't fit is either firewood or habitat. 

[Steve Bullman]

They have their place. The important thing is not to expect more of them than they are designed for.

[richy_B]

Something like the m500 maybe. I used a smaller Jo Beau and got frustrated by it, too easy to clog, very limited capacity. If you have a big back garden then it's ok not for professional work.

 

Would a timberwolf ph125 be too big? Cheap to buy, very capable little machines. 

[Dilz]

i do like the timberwolfs...but its something to fit down narrow gates, sides of houses on domestics - chip small piles in the garden / boarders or get down narrow access paths - over walk way bridges etc - so road towable isnt exactly what im looking as right now. 

 

[Jwoodgardenmaintenance]

Skarper c120 Pro or the jansen gts1500 e? Both look good and excellent reviews 

 

Jack 

[Dan Maynard]

I am still running my M500, I think having hp is important. Small and medium jobs just fine, bit more snedding up but then I usually get to park right next to the tree so no dragging. Bigger dismantles then I hire in.

It is important to keep the blades razor sharp and be fussy to keep everything clean going through, sharp blades are the secret to having them feed well.

[nepia]

2 hours ago, Dilz said:

i do like the timberwolfs...but its something to fit down narrow gates, sides of houses on domestics - chip small piles in the garden / boarders or get down narrow access paths - over walk way bridges etc - so road towable isnt exactly what im looking as right now. 

 

...but still chips 4".  That's asking a lot.  I know Greenmech, Jo Beau claim 4" for the CS100 and M300 (which I've got) but achieving it takes management of the piece, i.e. holding it and feeding it gradually.  I've actually chipped bigger than 4" dia but not by simply chucking the branch in.

But isn't a 4" dia branch firewood as per your first post?

[PeteB]

There are a couple of very informative threads on this already, try Search for "Gloria, the Wee Chipper", and the "Wee Chipper Club". These such devices have added a whole new level of work and capability to many firms. Indeed, some people have become specialist people in tree work having started with a GreenMech or JeauBeau.

[Mick Dempsey]

Nay.

[Con]

I bought one thinking it would be useful occasionally. Wasn't getting used at all. Sold it, less than a year after buying it. Even on the jobs where the chip was staying, I found it easier to drag out,  chip, and barrow back in