so far
Well, I've run about 4 cords through the splitter so far: about 1 for me, 1 for a neighbor across the street and about 2 cords of maple for another neighbor. My neighbors are all really cool people and I enjoy being able to help them out.
To answer a couple questions: I didn't measure the piece, but my neighbor with the maple had a long piece that was definitely more than 18" and probably closer ot 24". That seems about the maximum this unit can process.
As far as annual consumption, when we got the new stove installed 3 years ago ( a Harman TL300) we went from burning 5-6 cords down to 4-5, maybe even a little closer to the "4". This winter has been really easy on the wood supply; we'll probably get away with 3-4 cords if it stay as warm as it has been. So, with the splitter, I'll probably get all my splitting done in 4 or 5 weekends, so that's why I'll split wood with my neighbors too, since otherwise the machine will be sitting around too much!
So far, I'm really happy with the splitter. I run it on full throttle to keep the ram moving as quick as it can. As Steve said, I am getting better at utilizing the two-way action, and I can tell my productivity is going up. Though, I need to remind myself to take my time and enjoy being outside and not to hurry; there's plenty of time to split the wood I need.
The engine starts on the first or second pull and (oddly) needs the choke to start even when warm.
There's one mod I will definitely do: make a cover to protect the engine! I know it's just a matter of time before a log rolls (or gets pushed off) the rack and lands on the engine/gas tank. There are holes already drilled in the splitter beam that can be used to support a cover, I just need to stare at it for a little bit, make some measurements and come up with a design.