FORESTWEST 11062 Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This forestwest 11062 review focuses on a heavy-duty wood chipper built for substantial yard work. The unit is defined by its 20 HP Rato engine and a 6-inch cutting capacity. It processes 5–7 cubic meters of material per hour, making it suitable for farms or large properties. The machine weighs 573 pounds and measures 87 inches long. Its electric start system removes the need for pull-starting. You get a belt-driven drum with reversible blades for consistent performance. This model is designed for hardwoods and demanding conditions. It arrives with pneumatic tires and a towing bar for mobility.
What stands out
- 20 HP Rato engine with electric start for quick ignition
- 6-inch cutting capacity handles medium-sized branches effectively
- Twin reversible dual-edge blades allow for easy maintenance
- Pneumatic tires and towing bar aid in site transport
- Processes 5–7 cubic meters of waste per hour
Who it fits
Good fit for
This chipper suits homeowners with large lots, landscapers, and farm operators who process significant amounts of woody debris. If you regularly clear branches up to 6 inches thick, the 20 HP motor provides the necessary torque. The electric start is ideal if you want to avoid pull-cord fatigue. The towing bar and pneumatic tires make it easier to move between job sites or around a large property. It is built for heavy use on hardwoods and offers reliable throughput for professional or serious DIY tasks.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you have limited storage space or need to move the chipper frequently. At 573 pounds and 87 inches long, this unit is large and heavy. It requires a robust vehicle and trailer for transport. If you only deal with small twigs or light garden waste, this machine is overkill. The high power and capacity are unnecessary for minor cleanup jobs. You might prefer a smaller, lighter electric or gas model that is easier to store in a standard garage or shed.
Verdict: The FORESTWEST 11062 is a powerful, heavy-duty chipper for users with large volumes of branch waste. Its 20 HP engine and 6-inch capacity make it a solid choice for professional or extensive yard maintenance.
Key specs explained
Horsepower: 20 HP
This engine rating indicates the power available to drive the chipper drum. A 20 HP output allows the machine to maintain speed under heavy loads. You will notice less stalling when feeding dense hardwoods. This power level suits users processing large volumes of material. It is higher than many consumer-grade units, making it better for frequent or professional use.
Cutting Capacity: 6 in
This measurement defines the maximum diameter of branches the chipper can accept. A 6-inch limit handles substantial limbs without pre-cutting. You can process medium-sized yard waste efficiently. This capacity is ideal for homeowners with mature trees or landscapers managing commercial properties. It exceeds the typical 3-inch limit found in smaller residential shredders.
Weight: 573 pounds
This total mass affects stability and transport needs. The heavy build reduces vibration during operation. You will need a vehicle with adequate towing capacity to move it. The weight ensures the unit stays grounded while processing thick logs. This is significantly heavier than portable electric models, requiring a trailer for relocation.
Dimensions: 87 inches long
The length determines the space required for operation and storage. An 87-inch footprint needs a large garage or outdoor area. You must ensure your transport vehicle can accommodate this length. The extended size supports the internal drum mechanism. This is larger than compact chipper models, so verify your storage space before purchase.
Design and build overview
The FORESTWEST 11062 is a large, green wood chipper. According to the listing, the unit measures 87 inches in length, 32 inches in width, and 59 inches in height. This footprint requires a dedicated storage area or a large garage. The machine weighs 573 pounds. This mass provides stability during operation but makes manual movement impossible without assistance.
You will use the included towing bar and pneumatic tires to move the chipper. These features allow you to transport the unit between job sites or around a property. The tires handle varied terrain, ensuring stable movement over grass or dirt. The belt-driven drum system houses twin reversible dual-edge blades. This layout ensures smooth chipping and allows for easy cleaning. Reversible blades extend the life of the cutting edges, reducing maintenance frequency.
The chipper is powered by a 20 HP Rato engine with electric start. This control method eliminates pull-starting, making operation quick. The green finish is standard for this class of equipment. The design prioritizes durability for hardwood and heavy use. Landscapers and homeowners will find the layout practical for medium-sized branches. The 6-inch cutting capacity fits most yard waste. The overall build supports efficient processing of 5–7 cubic meters per hour.
Setup and everyday use
Setting up this chipper begins with securing the towing bar. The unit weighs 573 pounds, so you need a capable vehicle to move it. The pneumatic tires allow stable movement over varied terrain, which simplifies positioning on your property or job site. Once in place, you connect the power source. The listing specifies an electric start system, which eliminates the need for pull-starting. This feature makes operation quick and effortless every time you begin work. You simply activate the E-Start to engage the 20 HP Rato engine. During daily use, you feed branches into the 6-inch cutting capacity chute. The belt-driven drum system processes material at a rate of 5 to 7 cubic meters per hour. This speed suits medium-sized branches and yard waste. The twin reversible dual-edge blades ensure consistent chipping. When maintenance is required, you can reverse the blades for easy cleaning. This design extends blade life and reduces downtime. The large footprint, measuring 87 inches in length and 32 inches in width, requires a dedicated storage area. You must plan your workflow around this size. The machine is built for hardwood and heavy use, so you should expect robust performance in demanding conditions. Regular inspection of the belt and blades is necessary to maintain the specified chipping capacity. The sturdy construction supports continuous operation for homeowners and landscapers who need reliable processing power for substantial yard work.
Before You Buy This Chipper
Owning the FORESTWEST 11062 requires planning for its size and weight. At 573 pounds, you need a vehicle with sufficient towing capacity. Check your truck’s hitch rating before purchasing. The pneumatic tires help on uneven ground, but you still need a stable base for operation. Storage is another consideration. The unit measures 87 by 32 by 59 inches. You must have a large garage or shed to house it when not in use. Maintenance involves checking the twin reversible dual-edge blades. Keep them sharp for efficient chipping. This model fits into the 1 options on this page as a high-power choice. It suits users who process large volumes of hardwood. If you only have small branches, this unit may be overkill. Ensure your workspace can accommodate the 6-inch feed tube. You should also verify local noise regulations, as the 20 HP engine is loud. Proper fuel storage and oil changes will keep the Rato engine running smoothly.
Check before you buy
- Verify your vehicle can tow 573 pounds safely.
- Ensure you have a large garage for storage.
- Confirm your property allows for loud engine noise.
- Check that you can store fuel and oil safely.
The product at a glance
FORESTWEST 6" 20HP Wood Chipper
Best for: processing 6-inch hardwood branches
- Cutting Capacity
- 6 in
- Horsepower
- 20 HP
- Dimensions
- 87 × 32 × 59 inches
- Weight
- 573 pounds
View on Amazon: FORESTWEST 6" 20HP Wood Chipper Affiliate link
This FORESTWEST 11062 is a large, 20 HP petrol wood chipper with a 6-inch cutting capacity. It features an electric start, twin reversible blades, and pneumatic tires for easy towing. Weighing 573 pounds, it handles up to 7 cubic meters of waste per hour. It suits homeowners and landscapers managing medium branches and hardwoods on farms or job sites.
Pros
- 20 HP Rato engine with electric start
- Handles 6-inch diameter logs
- Twin reversible dual-edge blades
- Pneumatic tires for varied terrain
Cons
- Heavy 573-pound build requires towing
- Large footprint at 87 inches long
- No fuel tank capacity listed
Good fit if
- You need to process 6-inch hardwood branches
- You want to avoid pull-starting a heavy engine
- You need to move the chipper across uneven ground
Skip if
- You only have small twigs under 2 inches
- You need a portable unit you can carry alone
- You want a quiet electric-powered machine
Verdict: FORESTWEST 6in Wood Chipper 20HP is a heavy-duty tool for users who need to process large branches and hardwoods efficiently. Its electric start and towing bar make it suitable for landscapers and homeowners with significant yard waste.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | FORESTWEST 6" 20HP Wood Chipper |
|---|---|
| Cutting Capacity | 6 in |
| Horsepower | 20 HP |
| Dimensions | 87 × 32 × 59 inches |
| Weight | 573 pounds |
| Size | Large |
| Color | Green |
| Model | BM11062 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the FORESTWEST 11062 suitable for hardwoods?
Yes, it is designed for processing 6-inch hardwood branches. The 20 HP engine provides the torque needed to chew through dense wood without stalling. This makes it a reliable choice for users who regularly clear thick, tough limbs from their property.
How much space does the FORESTWEST 11062 take up?
The unit is classified as large, measuring 87 inches in length, 32 inches in width, and 59 inches in height. You need a spacious garage or outdoor storage area to accommodate these dimensions comfortably. Plan your storage location before delivery.
Can I tow the FORESTWEST 11062 easily?
The chipper weighs 573 pounds and includes a towing bar for transport. You must ensure your vehicle has a sufficient hitch rating to handle this weight safely. The pneumatic tires help with stability on uneven terrain during movement.
What is the maximum branch size this chipper handles?
The FORESTWEST 11062 has a 6-inch cutting capacity. This allows you to process substantial branches and hardwoods efficiently. It is built for heavy-duty tasks, making it ideal for landscapers or homeowners with significant yard waste to manage.
Does the FORESTWEST 11062 have an electric start?
Yes, the unit features an electric start system. This simplifies the ignition process, especially for users who may find pull-start mechanisms difficult. It ensures you can begin work quickly without manual effort, adding convenience to your daily operations.
Is the FORESTWEST 11062 good for farms?
Yes, its heavy-duty build and high output make it suitable for farms. It processes material at a rate of 5–7 cubic meters per hour. This efficiency helps clear large amounts of vegetation quickly, saving time on extensive agricultural or rural properties.