Log splitter engine crankshaft too long

[JoshNY]

Hi all,
Rebuilding an old splitter and am repowering it with a Predator 420cc engine and a 28gpm pump.
The pump came as a kit with the engine mounting bracket and Lovejoy coupler.
The issue I am running into is the crankshaft is about 1/2 inch too long for everything to bolt together.
It seems I have 2 options,
1. Cut 1/2 inch off the crank
2. But 1/2 spacers between the mount bracket and engine.
I have shortened small engine cranks before by carefully cutting the shaft with a sawzall.
It just makes me nervous cutting the crank on a brand new engine.
What would you do?

 

[ballisticdoughnut]

I’d go with spacers. Best option would be a solid spacer made out of aluminum or steel. McMaster-Carr probably has them in stock.

 

[triptester]

Pump mounts are available in different lengths check to insure you received the correct adaptor.

 

[rswojo]

I had the same problem about 15 years ago. I went to the hardware store and bought washers. I know it is not as elegant as McMaster Carr spacers but it hasn't given me any grief for 15 years.

 

[stihltech]

As long as the keyway is long enough, cut the crank to length. Not uncommon.

 

[buzz sawyer]

I went with spacers on mine, no problems years later.

 

[fields_mj]

Hi all,
Rebuilding an old splitter and am repowering it with a Predator 420cc engine and a 28gpm pump.
The pump came as a kit with the engine mounting bracket and Lovejoy coupler.
The issue I am running into is the crankshaft is about 1/2 inch too long for everything to bolt together.
It seems I have 2 options,
1. Cut 1/2 inch off the crank
2. But 1/2 spacers between the mount bracket and engine.
I have shortened small engine cranks before by carefully cutting the shaft with a sawzall.
It just makes me nervous cutting the crank on a brand new engine.
What would you do?

Have cut-off wheel and grinder, will travel....

Cut off 3/8" and check it again. If it's still too short, make another cut

 

[sean donato]

Pretty standard to have to trim a crank when buying a general pourpose engine, doesn't matter what manufacturer.