Tonnage seems to be the leading factor when most people shop for a log splitter, but a good design has a bigger effect on job time than raw power. That’s why there’s the Echo Bear Cat LS22. It’s built to be easy to use in any weather and with any wood, and when it’s not in use, it’s easy to move and store. Whether you need to split your own firewood or you cut wood professionally, it makes it easy to turn logs into something useful.
Built to Work All Year
Throughout the design, Echo has added several features to ensure the LS22 works as well in the winter as well as it does in the summer.
This starts with a Subaru SP170 engine. It’s designed for all weather performance, not just warm weather like the lawn mower engines found in low-end splitters. The Subaru’s overhead cam design decreases valve train complexity, which means less noise and more power, plus it allows better head cooling for increased durability. An automatic decompression system reduces the effort needed when pulling the recoil starter, making it easy to start, even in winter. With 5.7 hp and an almost flat torque curve, this 179 cc engine won’t get bogged down when cutting larger logs.
The motor powers a 4-gallon hydraulic system that uses Dexron III, a transmission fluid that is readily available and performs well at low temperatures. Looking to buy one and don’t want a lengthy setup? This pump comes ready to go with no need to fill or prime the system.
Easy to Use
The LS22’s trailer has a 30-inch bed height, which means no stooping over to load wood. An extra wide end plate makes this splitter stable when used vertically while small logs can be loaded quickly by using the splitter horizontally. A log stripper plate comes standard to prevent jams, as does an engine guard that protects against falling wood.
Easy to Move and Store
Pneumatic tires and a standard ball hitch allow this splitter to be towed at speeds up to 45 mph. When the work is done, the trailer hitch can be folded to keep the overall footprint down for storage.
Built to Last, No Matter How It’s Used
Echo Bear Cat backs this splitter with a warranty no matter how you use it. American and Canadian home users are backed by a three-year warranty. Want to use the LS22 for your business? It’s still backed by a one year warranty. Do you have a rental business? Echo will still back it for 6 months, not the three-month guarantee seen with most equipment.
Accessories
Depending on how you use the LS22, these add-ons can give you even better performance.
Want to work even faster? The log cradle holds wood as it is being cut which means less time spent positioning logs. Dealing with big logs? The 4-way wedge splits wood into four pieces with a single pass.
Need lighting to meet local trailer laws, or just want fenders for protection from road debris? Bear Cat offers a complete kit that adds fenders with built-in lights and trailer wiring.
Want to keep an eye on your engine’s use? The tachometer/hour meter makes it easy to keep track of engine speeds and keep on track with the maintenance schedule.
Where to buy Echo Bear Cat Log Splitter parts and accessories
Shank’s Lawn and Garden is a Signature Elite certified dealer for Bear Cat equipment, making them one of the top dealers in the country. That means their staff is trained by the company, and they keep a wide range of parts in stock for quick service. Shank’s is also an OEM dealer for Subaru Industrial Power products, making them a one stop shop for all your LS22 needs.
Live in Pennsylvania and looking to buy a log splitter or need to have one serviced? Their shop is located at 4900 Molly Pitcher Highway in Chambersburg. That’s just off route 11, or take Exit 10 to Marion from I-81. Not in the area? You can still get the same level of service by visiting their website, www.shankslawn.com. They ship anywhere in the U.S. and Canada.