Why not just add the Rugged made kit to your current log splitter(s)?
Use it, and if you like it, add it to a bigger splitter.
Log Splitter Log Lift Kit
Split wood faster and reduce back strain with this hydraulic log lift kit from RuggedMade. The kit comes with the main parts you need to add a log lift to a log splitter, including: Hydraulic cylinder Upper and lower lift trays Upper and lower lift brackets Fittings and pins These are the...
ruggedmade.com
Some drilling and a valve, and you probably would be all set if you have hoses in stock or can make them.
I just made my log table out of scrap metal (tear drop beams) I had laying around and made a rear support with a drop down wheel for when I put a huge piece of wood on the back when the splitter is not attached to a hitch (currently on a front hitch on my B2), so, it does not flip itself vertical. I can roll a 300-400# round up there for splitting, but, without the leg the rear weight will lift the front jack and wheel off the ground.
I can't use the vertical position on the tank pivot with this setup. But, I have found doing vertical splitting on huge rounds non-productive and a huge hassle. I just noddle the big ones into halves or quarters until they are <100# to put on the splitter or table.
I tend to stack 3-4 rounds on the far table so I can split without so much walking and bending. That is why the beams/bars/slots go the way they are, so, rounds do not roll off when I stack them, but, roll easily to me when I am on the other side of the beam,
if you put a splitter on a metal platform, you could even have heavy duty poly casters on each corner to move it. The dual 1200# 8" poly ones from NT are now about double$ what I paid 2 years ago, but, they are swell for moving things under load (engine hoist) or that literally weigh a ton. This would allow you the option to use an electric winch to flip up the log lift or using a separate 4-5 HP engine just for the table hydraulics when you need it. Without the expensive and hassle of going into the current log splitter's hydraulic system.
A platform moved by a forklift would allow you to build a input table to stack rounds, you could add the log lift to that, and build it high enough to fit a wagon or trailer under or by the splitter so the stuff goes right into what needs to move it instead of having to pick it off the ground.
Personally, for $500, I would buy (10) 375 gallon IBC water totes, throw my firewood in the metal cages, and move those with the forklift. I have already started to convert from my regular firewood sheds to the totes.
