Picture this: you’re standing in the shed, a heap of timber waiting to be split, the weather heating up, and the next fire season on your mind. Maybe you’re prepping for the winter chill, or maybe you’re stocking up to protect your home or help your crew after a long shift on the fireground.

The BAUMR-AG 65 Tonne Petrol Hydraulic Log Splitter is built for these moments—designed to save your back, your time, and a lot of frustration, whether you’re at home, on a farm, or running logistics for an emergency response. In this guide, you’ll get a calm, detailed walk-through of what this splitter can do, why it matters, and how to use it safely. We’ll cover everything from setup and safety habits to real-world lessons from both families and fire crews.

Along the way, you’ll also find practical tips for renters, owners, those with pets or special needs, and anyone supporting a team on the ground.

If you’ve ever battled through splitting green hardwood, stringy gum, or old pine with just a maul or axe, you know the toll it can take on your body—and your patience. The BAUMR-AG 65 Tonne Petrol Hydraulic Log Splitter is a beast built to handle Australia’s toughest timber, thanks to:

• Massive 65 tonne splitting force (that’s enough for big, knotted logs up to 610mm long!)
• Switches between horizontal and vertical modes in seconds—ideal for heavy rounds
• Petrol-powered engine means you can use it anywhere, no power needed
• Detachable 4-way wedge for faster, cleaner splitting on the tougher jobs
• Towed easily behind your ute or tractor (with proper safety checks!)

It’s not just for landowners—fire crews and community teams use similar splitters for quick firebreak clearing and recovery after storms or bushfires.

Choose the Right Spot

Always work on flat, solid ground—never a slope, gravel patch, or near dry grass. Space matters: give yourself a good 3-4m clearance around the splitter. Think about where flying chips might go, and don’t forget the noise—your neighbours (or your crew on the radios) will thank you.

Wear the Right Gear

Steel-capped boots, eye and ear protection, snug gloves, and close-fitting clothes are musts. No loose scarves or jewellery. If you’re supporting someone with mobility issues, help keep the workspace clear of tripping hazards.

Check Your Machine

Run through the pre-start checklist:

• Inspect hydraulic hoses and engine oil level
• Check the tyre pressure if towing
• Make sure the safety guards are in place
• Look for signs of leaks or damage

If you’re not sure, the official manual has a clear step-by-step start-up guide.

1. Position Your Timber

Stand your log square on the splitter bed. For the vertical mode, roll heavy rounds into place—don’t lift. In horizontal mode, always watch your hands and feet. For fire crews, have a spotter to help guide and clear the area.

2. Engage the Controls

This model uses two-hand control levers to keep your hands safe. Don’t try shortcuts. Push both levers at once, and never bypass the safety stops. If you’re unsure, slow down—rushing causes more injuries than any machine.

3. Use the 4-Way Wedge (When Needed)

For really tough logs, clip in the 4-way wedge. This cuts down splitting time and energy, especially for seasoned wood. Just check it’s locked in before each split.

4. Keep an Eye on the Area

Never let kids, pets, or bystanders stand near the splitter. For crews: use clear signals and maintain a safety bubble, especially if there’s more than one splitter running.

5. Regular Breaks & Hydration

It sounds simple, but tired operators make mistakes. Take regular water breaks, swap roles if working in a group, and check for heat stress—especially on long summer days or after fireground operations.

Don’t own your place? Most rental agreements won’t let you bolt a splitter to the ground, but this model is fully portable and needs no permanent fixings. Always store fuel in a safe spot and clean up any wood debris to keep landlords happy and reduce fire risk.

For families: keep little ones away from the work area and explain (in simple terms) why splitters are “adults only.” If you’ve got pets, set up a barrier or use a leash so they don’t dart through while you’re working.

Elderly or less mobile users can still benefit: set up the splitter in vertical mode to avoid lifting heavy logs. Have a friend or family member help with positioning, and don’t hesitate to take breaks. Safety always comes first.

Log splitters aren’t just for home use—crews on bushfire clean-up, hazard reduction, and storm response rely on them to clear tracks, prep fuel breaks, and manage piles safely and efficiently.

Here’s what we’ve learned:

• Keep the worksite clear—stumbling over gear is a common cause of minor injuries
• Always check fuel and oil before moving to a new site (remote jobs can mean hours between refills)
• Have a basic first aid kit handy—splinters, pinched fingers, and minor cuts are part of the job
• Work in pairs: one operator, one spotter, swapping roles to avoid fatigue
• Set a “rest and rehydrate” schedule, especially after a big day or in full gear

On a fireground, quick teamwork and a cool head beat brute strength every time. Machines like this 65T model make a huge difference—if everyone knows how to use them properly.

Even the best gear can trip you up if you skip the basics. After years helping both households and crews, here are the top tips (and blunders to avoid):

• Don’t rush setup: A quick glance isn’t enough—check bolts, pins, and levers every time.
• Never “fix” jams with force: Turn off the engine and wait for moving parts to stop. Stuck timber is frustrating but fingers don’t grow back.
• Keep up with maintenance: Regularly grease moving parts, clean the wedge, and check hydraulic fluid. It’ll outlast you if you look after it.
• Don’t skip PPE: The odd flying chip or loud bang is all it takes to wish you’d put on your safety glasses and earmuffs.
• Store safely: Never leave the splitter with fuel inside a closed shed, especially in summer. Allow it to cool down before packing away.

The good news? Most mistakes are small—take your time, ask for help if you’re not sure, and treat every session like your first.

After every big job, brush off sawdust, check for leaks, and let the splitter cool before refuelling or moving it. Once a month (or after every serious stint), check:

• Hydraulic oil level and condition (top up or change if it looks dark or milky)
• Tightness of all bolts and fasteners
• Air filter (clean or replace as needed)
• Tyre and hitch for safe towing
• Any unusual noises or vibration

Need a printable log? Download a firewood maintenance log to keep records for safety and warranty claims.

Prepping your woodpile isn’t just about keeping warm—it’s about reducing hazards around the home. Split, stacked, and covered wood is much safer than loose branches or piles near the house.

• Keep firewood stacks at least 10m from your home or outbuildings
• Clear leaves, bark, and chips after every splitting session
• Make firebreaks as part of your seasonal property clean-up

For fire crews, splitters help create access, clear blocked tracks, and manage windrow piles—crucial when time is tight and safety matters most.

Want more on prepping for fire season? See our detailed bushfire preparation guide.