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I plan to purchase a log splitter and convert it to a forging press.  What I am at a loss for is what do I put on the end of the ram and on the ramming plate.  Not to mention where to purchase the tooling.  Please advise.

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There are a few threads about converting log splitters into presses. If you do a search with your favorite search engine like it is suggested in the read this first thread they should show up. As far as purchasing tooling there is no one that sells any I'm aware of so most must be manufactured by the owner. I think you would be money ahead by purchasing a press made for blacksmithing than purchasing a log splitter and then converting it.

I can't control the wind, all I can do is adjust my sail’s.
Semper Paratus

 

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Good Morning Don,

I made a Log Splitter for my father-in-law, not a store bought unit. I used it for a Forging Press that I made. Buying a splitter may not be enough Hydraulic ooomph!! I found that a two-stage pump was the Cat's Meow. It is better with more engine power to drive more Hydraulic power. The best Forging Press I have seen, has all the pump and hoses above the work table, no fear of touching a hose.

just my $0.02

Neil

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Welcome aboard Don, glad to have you. 

Splitter / forge press conversions are usually conversions from old splitters the smith got for cheaper than buying components to build a press. 

How to mount tooling depends on the splitter, walking past the row for sale at the local Home Depot you can see several different connections for wedge and backing plate. My favorite to rent has a splitting wedge on the ram and backing plate so it quarters blocks split. It would be a PITA to turn into a forging press though, the ram couples with a 1 1/2" pin and pintle, the base plate is bolted to the rails and would require some serious fabrication to convert.

Once you have the backing plate and a suitable carriage on the hyd. ram to carry the tooling, it's easy. Make the forge tooling bolt to the backing plate (Anvil plate) and the ram plate and make them interchangeable so the top and bottom dies work in either position. 

Beyond that I can't get into specifics without pics and dimensions from the splitter you have to use. It shouldn't be too difficult if you're a competent welder fabricator. Remember the pieces will be subject to a LOT of force so even a little break can put high velocity metal in the air. This is a badness thing.

Frosty The Lucky. 

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