Troy Bilt Super Tomahawk Wood Chipper (5 Pro Tips Revealed)

When tackling tough wood chipping jobs with my Troy Bilt Super Tomahawk, I’ve learned that pre-soaking excessively dry wood for a few hours before feeding it into the chipper significantly improves its performance. This simple trick reduces dust, makes the wood more pliable, and puts less strain on the machine’s blades and engine. It’s a game-changer, especially when dealing with seasoned hardwoods. Let me share the other pro tips I’ve gathered over the years.

Troy Bilt Super Tomahawk Wood Chipper: 5 Pro Tips Revealed

The Troy Bilt Super Tomahawk wood chipper is a workhorse. I’ve personally used it for everything from clearing brush after storms to processing branches into mulch for my garden. Over time, I’ve come to appreciate its power and versatility, but also understand its limitations. These five pro tips, honed through years of hands-on experience, will help you maximize its performance, extend its lifespan, and, most importantly, stay safe.

1. Mastering Material Selection and Preparation

The type of wood you feed into your Super Tomahawk makes a world of difference. I’ve found that understanding the wood’s characteristics—its hardness, moisture content, and diameter—is the key to efficient chipping and avoiding jams.

Wood Hardness: Know Your Hardwoods from Your Softwoods

Not all wood is created equal. Hardwoods, like oak and maple, are denser and require more power to chip than softwoods, such as pine and fir.

• Hardwoods: Typically, hardwoods have a density ranging from 560 kg/m³ (35 lb/ft³) to over 1000 kg/m³ (62 lb/ft³). Oak, for example, can have a Janka hardness rating (a measure of resistance to indentation) of 1290 lbf (pounds-force), while maple can range from 900 to 1450 lbf.
• Softwoods: Softwoods are generally less dense, with values between 350 kg/m³ (22 lb/ft³) and 500 kg/m³ (31 lb/ft³). Pine, for instance, has a Janka hardness rating around 380 lbf.

When chipping hardwoods, I always make sure the blades are sharp and the engine is running at full throttle. Trying to force dull blades through hardwood is a recipe for jams and potential damage.

Moisture Content: The Goldilocks Zone for Chipping

Moisture content is another critical factor. Freshly cut (“green”) wood, with a moisture content above 30%, can be difficult to chip cleanly. It tends to clog the chipper and leave a stringy, uneven mulch. On the other hand, excessively dry wood (below 15% moisture content) can create a lot of dust and put extra strain on the blades.

I aim for wood with a moisture content between 20% and 30%. This range provides the best balance of pliability and chip quality. A simple moisture meter, readily available online or at hardware stores, is an invaluable tool for determining moisture content.

Practical Tip: If you’re dealing with excessively dry wood, lightly misting it with water a few hours before chipping can significantly improve its performance. This trick reduces dust and makes the wood more pliable.

Log Diameter: Respecting the Tomahawk’s Limits

The Troy Bilt Super Tomahawk has a maximum chipping capacity, usually around 3 inches in diameter. Exceeding this limit is a surefire way to damage the machine. I always measure the diameter of branches before feeding them into the chipper. If a branch is too thick, I’ll cut it down with a chainsaw or axe.

Technical Specification: The Super Tomahawk’s feed opening is designed for material up to 3 inches in diameter. Attempting to force larger branches can damage the blades, engine, and feed mechanism.

Case Study: My Battle with Bradford Pear

I once had to clear a large Bradford pear tree that had been damaged in a storm. Bradford pear wood is notoriously tough and stringy. I knew I was in for a challenge. I carefully sorted the branches, separating the thicker sections for firewood and reserving the smaller, more manageable branches for chipping. I made sure to keep the blades sharp and frequently cleared any buildup in the chipper’s discharge chute. By taking my time and paying attention to the wood’s characteristics, I was able to successfully chip the entire tree without any major problems.

2. Blade Maintenance: Keeping Your Tomahawk Sharp

Sharp blades are essential for efficient chipping and extending the life of your Super Tomahawk. Dull blades require more engine power, put extra strain on the machine, and produce ragged, uneven chips.

Sharpening Frequency: A Matter of Usage

How often you need to sharpen your blades depends on the amount and type of wood you’re chipping. As a general rule, I sharpen my blades after every 10-20 hours of use, or sooner if I notice a decrease in performance.

Data Point: Studies have shown that dull chipper blades can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 20% and increase the risk of jams by 30%.

Sharpening Techniques: A DIY Approach

I prefer to sharpen my chipper blades myself. It’s a relatively simple process that requires a few basic tools:

• Bench Grinder: A bench grinder with a medium-grit grinding wheel is ideal for sharpening chipper blades.
• File: A mill bastard file can be used for touching up the blades between sharpenings.
• Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses when sharpening blades to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.

Step-by-Step Sharpening Guide:

1. Remove the Blades: Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on removing the blades.
2. Inspect the Blades: Examine the blades for any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips. Replace damaged blades immediately.
3. Grind the Blades: Carefully grind the cutting edge of each blade, maintaining the original angle. Avoid overheating the blades, as this can weaken the steel.
4. Hone the Blades: Use a file to hone the cutting edge, removing any burrs or imperfections.
5. Balance the Blades: Ensure that the blades are balanced before reinstalling them. Unbalanced blades can cause excessive vibration and damage to the chipper.
6. Reinstall the Blades: Reinstall the blades according to the instructions in your owner’s manual. Tighten the bolts to the specified torque.

Important Safety Note: Always disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance on your chipper.

Professional Sharpening: When to Call in the Experts

If you’re not comfortable sharpening your chipper blades yourself, or if the blades are severely damaged, it’s best to take them to a professional sharpening service. They have the expertise and equipment to restore your blades to their original condition.

3. Engine Maintenance: Keeping the Heart of Your Tomahawk Pumping

The engine is the heart of your Super Tomahawk. Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring reliable performance and extending its lifespan.

Oil Changes: The Lifeblood of Your Engine

Regular oil changes are essential for keeping your engine running smoothly. I change the oil in my Super Tomahawk every 25 hours of use, or at least once a year.

Technical Specification: Use the oil type and viscosity recommended in your owner’s manual. Typically, a 10W-30 or SAE 30 oil is suitable for most small engines.

Step-by-Step Oil Change Guide:

1. Warm Up the Engine: Run the engine for a few minutes to warm up the oil. This will help it drain more easily.
2. Drain the Oil: Place a drain pan under the oil drain plug. Remove the plug and allow the oil to drain completely.
3. Replace the Oil Filter: Replace the oil filter with a new one.
4. Reinstall the Drain Plug: Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it securely.
5. Fill with Oil: Fill the engine with the recommended amount of oil.
6. Check the Oil Level: Check the oil level with the dipstick. Add more oil if necessary.

Air Filter Maintenance: Breathing Easy

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine performance. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, which can reduce power and increase fuel consumption.

Maintenance Schedule: I clean the air filter in my Super Tomahawk every 25 hours of use, or more often if I’m working in dusty conditions.

Cleaning Procedure:

1. Remove the Air Filter: Remove the air filter from the air filter housing.
2. Clean the Air Filter: Clean the air filter with compressed air or mild soap and water. Allow it to dry completely before reinstalling it.
3. Reinstall the Air Filter: Reinstall the air filter in the air filter housing.

Spark Plug Maintenance: Igniting the Power

A properly functioning spark plug is essential for reliable starting and smooth engine operation.

Maintenance Schedule: I replace the spark plug in my Super Tomahawk every 100 hours of use, or sooner if I notice any signs of misfiring.

Replacement Procedure:

1. Remove the Spark Plug: Disconnect the spark plug wire. Remove the spark plug with a spark plug wrench.
2. Inspect the Spark Plug: Inspect the spark plug for any signs of damage or wear. Replace it if necessary.
3. Gap the Spark Plug: Gap the new spark plug to the specified gap. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct gap setting.
4. Install the Spark Plug: Install the new spark plug and tighten it securely.
5. Reconnect the Spark Plug Wire: Reconnect the spark plug wire.

Fuel System Maintenance: Preventing Stale Fuel

Stale fuel can cause starting problems and engine damage.

Preventative Measures:

• Use Fresh Fuel: Always use fresh fuel in your Super Tomahawk. Fuel can start to degrade after just 30 days.
• Add Fuel Stabilizer: Add fuel stabilizer to the fuel tank if you’re not going to be using the chipper for an extended period of time.
• Drain the Fuel Tank: Drain the fuel tank before storing the chipper for the winter.

Technical Note: Ethanol-blended fuels can absorb moisture, which can lead to corrosion and fuel system problems. Use ethanol-free fuel whenever possible.

4. Safety First: Protecting Yourself and Others

Operating a wood chipper can be dangerous. It’s essential to follow all safety precautions to protect yourself and others.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gearing Up for Safety

Always wear appropriate PPE when operating your Super Tomahawk. This includes:

• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Hearing Protection: Wood chippers can be very loud. Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts and splinters.
• Long Sleeves and Pants: Protect your skin from flying debris.
• Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling branches and other hazards.

Safe Operating Procedures: Following the Rules

• Read the Owner’s Manual: Read and understand the owner’s manual before operating the chipper.
• Clear the Area: Clear the area around the chipper of any obstacles or debris.
• Keep Children and Pets Away: Keep children and pets away from the chipper at all times.
• Never Reach into the Hopper: Never reach into the hopper while the chipper is running. Use a stick or push tool to feed branches into the chipper.
• Don’t Overload the Chipper: Don’t overload the chipper. Feed branches in gradually.
• Shut Off the Engine Before Servicing: Always shut off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance on the chipper.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions while operating the chipper.

Emergency Preparedness: Planning for the Unexpected

• First Aid Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit nearby.
• Emergency Contact Information: Have emergency contact information readily available.
• Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of a fire.
• Know How to Stop the Chipper: Know how to stop the chipper quickly in case of an emergency.

Safety Statistic: According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), wood chippers cause thousands of injuries each year. Many of these injuries could be prevented by following proper safety precautions.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues: Diagnosing and Solving Problems

Even with proper maintenance and operation, you may encounter occasional problems with your Super Tomahawk. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them.

Chipper Won’t Start: Diagnosing the Ignition System

If your chipper won’t start, the first thing to check is the ignition system.

• Check the Spark Plug: Make sure the spark plug is clean and properly gapped.
• Check the Spark Plug Wire: Make sure the spark plug wire is securely connected to the spark plug.
• Check the Fuel: Make sure there is fuel in the fuel tank and that the fuel is fresh.
• Check the Air Filter: Make sure the air filter is clean.

Chipper Jams Frequently: Addressing Blade and Wood Issues

Frequent jams are usually caused by dull blades, oversized branches, or wet wood.

• Sharpen the Blades: Sharpen the blades if they are dull.
• Reduce the Branch Size: Reduce the size of the branches you are feeding into the chipper.
• Dry the Wood: Allow the wood to dry before chipping it.

Chipper Vibrates Excessively: Balancing the Blades

Excessive vibration can be caused by unbalanced blades or a loose engine mount.

• Balance the Blades: Balance the blades before reinstalling them.
• Check the Engine Mount: Check the engine mount to make sure it is tight.

Chipper Smokes Excessively: Investigating Engine Problems

Excessive smoke can be caused by a variety of engine problems, such as a clogged air filter, a dirty spark plug, or a worn engine.

• Check the Air Filter: Make sure the air filter is clean.
• Check the Spark Plug: Make sure the spark plug is clean and properly gapped.
• Check the Oil Level: Make sure the oil level is correct.
• Consult a Mechanic: If the problem persists, consult a qualified mechanic.

Troubleshooting Tip: Always consult your owner’s manual for specific troubleshooting information and repair procedures.

By following these five pro tips, you can maximize the performance, extend the lifespan, and ensure the safe operation of your Troy Bilt Super Tomahawk wood chipper. Remember, a little preventative maintenance goes a long way. And always prioritize safety. Happy chipping!

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