Have you ever wondered what to do with an unused tractor? Buying a PTO powered firewood processor may not be for everyone. But if you already own a tractor, it could be the best solution for you.

If you own a tractor that is unused or only used part-time, we recommend considering a portable firewood processor (PTO model) with a 3-point hitch connection instead of a gasoline-powered model.

For tractor owners, the three main reasons to choose a PTO-powered firewood processor are: 

1. The PTO-powered firewood processor is highly portable with a three-point hitch.
2. Compared to electric and engine models, PTO firewood processors are less expensive to purchase.
3. The compact PTO firewood processor is great for seasonal use, as it is easy to store and has the same level of performance in all weather conditions.

Highly portable with a 3-point hitch

If you have mobile operations, you'll naturally be looking for a firewood processor that's easy to transport. The right machine should be easy to lift and set up at its new location, whether you're using a loader, tractor, Bobcat, or small truck-mounted crane.

Most PTO firewood processors are highly portable with a three-point hitch. This is also a widely used type of hitch on tractors. When choosing a PTO processor, it's not only easy to power it with your tractor, but also to move it around the yard or for contracting purposes, for example.  

With the log lift or log table in the tractor's lifting device, firewood operations can be moved quickly. The log lifters are easily transported with the machine. You can also attach the log deck to the tractor's front hitch for mobile operations. It is also possible to build a mobile trailer combination with the machine and the log table to be transported by the tractor.

Cheaper option

Compared to electric and engine models, PTO firewood processors are less expensive to purchase. Of course, the purchase price is only one part of the product's life cycle cost. Resale value and operating efficiency are typically lower with PTO firewood processors. The total life cycle cost can still be lower compared to the other options. There are a few things you should consider when calculating the life cycle cost for a PTO firewood processor.

First, the tractor uses approximately 2-3 liters of diesel per hour when operating a firewood processor. However, you should also consider if the tractor can be used for other purposes when you are not using the firewood processor. If you use the tractor solely for the firewood processor operation, additional service and maintenance costs should also be evaluated.

Still, in case you have a tractor laying around, the PTO model processor is likely to be the best investment for you. You can utilize your old tractor with only 20-35hp requirement. Before purchase, remember to make sure that your tractor has sufficient horsepower that the PTO processor requires.

Small used tractors are often found cheaper than large diesel engine units. If needed, there are also other cost-effective power source options available. Hakki Pilke, for example, offers a compact yet efficient PowerPack for PTO- or combi-driven Hakki Pilke firewood processors. The PowerPack is a perfect solution when you need your tractor for other tasks, such as moving logs, instead of running the firewood processor. Compared to a tractor, the PowerPack is almost maintenance-free.

Great for seasonal use in all conditions

Compact PTO firewood processors are great for seasonal use as they only take up a small space in the shed and are therefore easy to store. Modern quality processors are also safe to operate and have the same level of performance in all weather conditions. There are no engine starting problems due to cold weather, as your tractor with a preheater starts easily at -4 ℉ (-20 °C) and warms up the firewood processor in a matter of minutes.

If you have other uses for your tractor when you are not using it for the firewood processor, there will be no need for yearly maintenance, even if you only process firewood seasonally.