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The WEN 56206 is a compact electric log splitter. It’s not overly expensive, has enough power for a typical homeowner needs and it’s fairly easy to move and store. However, it also comes with a few disadvantages.
Pros:
- Solid power
- Compact
Cons:
- Quite low to the ground
- Two-handed operation
Key specifications:
- Splitting force: 6 tons
- Operation: two-handed
- Max log length: 20.5″
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Compact Splitter With a Solid Power
The WEN 56206 doesn’t require almost any assembly, you just put the wheels on.
There were some problems with packaging in the past (the unit arrived damaged), but based on the recent reviews it seems that problem has been taken care of.
It’s an electric machine so unless you have an outlet nearby, you would have to use an extension cord, a 12 gauge 50ft will do just fine. But compared to gas units, you can use it both outdoors and indoors, it’s less noisy and you also don’t have to use any fuel.
Considering its power, it’s a classical compact splitter for occasional homeowner use. The splitting force of 6 tons provides enough power to cut logs even larger than 10" in diameter, unless they are very knotty. The cycle time is not that great but still ok – between 14-25 seconds.
Several Disadvantages
Accoding to the reviewers, the WEN Lumberjack splitter works very well, is easy to use, just the manual could be improved.
But keep in mind the supplied hydraulic fluid is meant only for temperatures above 40 degrees F. In colder weather it’s required to drain the liquid and replace it with an auto transmission fluid (Dexron).
It uses a 2-handed operation for increased safety and many users didn’t like that, some even made alterations to enable operating the machine with just one hand. Nevertheless, the rails work fine and keep the logs in the cradle.
And as most other electric splitters, it’s quite low to the ground. So if you want to avoid the constant bending over, you can place it on a trailer, in the back of a pickup or build a raised wooden platform.
Easy to Move and Store
But that compact size also presents advantages – the machine is fairly easy to move around, the tires are wide and fairly large and the handles with rubber grip help as well.
And the storage is also very simple, it stands vertically and requires very little space. Unfortunately the end caps on the frame seems pretty cheap and the metal can punch through after some time – but that’s not a big problem.
Conclusion: The WEN 56206 is a decent compact log splitter. It has several disadvantages like the two-handed operation, being low to the ground and having to change the hydraulic oil in lower temperatures – but it works well, has enough power and the price is also nice.
On the other hand, our most recommended machine is the Boss Industrial ES7T20. It’s slightly more expensive, but also a bit more powerful, offers a one-handed operation and the overall user rating is better.
>> Read more or buy the WEN 56206 here
Specifications:
- Brand: WEN
- Type: Electric
- Weight: 100 lbs
- Splitting force: 6 tons
- Max log diameter: 10″
- Max log length: 20.5″
- Cycle time (approx.): 14-25 seconds
- Operation: two-handed
- Warranty: 2-year residential
Frequently asked questions:
Can it split logs that have more than 10″ in diameter?
Yes, unless they are very knotty. According to user opinions, it starts to get worse at about 14″ and 18″ being the maximum (and you would have to make additional cuts sometimes).
Which power cord should be used?
A 12 gauge 50ft one would be ideal.
What about the hydraulic oil when the temperature fall below 40 degrees F?
The manual states you should then change the hydraulic fluid to Dexron transmission fluid.
Will it work in a vertical position?
No, it’s not designed for that.
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