YARDMAX Gas Log Splitter 35 vs YARDMAX Gas Log Splitter 36 (2026): Key Differences
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This yardmax gas log splitter 35 vs gas log splitter 36 comparison helps you choose the right tool for your wood processing needs. Both units share the same Briggs & Stratton CR950 engine and U-Beam design for durability. They also feature identical hydraulic systems for fast cycle times. The main difference lies in their splitting force and beam structure. One offers higher tonnage with a half-beam, while the other provides a full-beam setup with a longer table. These variations affect how you handle large logs and manage weight.
Key differences
| Aspect | Yardmax 35-Ton Full Beam Gas Log Splitter | Yardmax 36-Ton Half-Beam Gas Log Splitter |
|---|---|---|
| Splitting Force | 35 Ton | 36 Ton |
| Beam Style | Full Beam | Half Beam |
| Max Log Length | 26.5 inches | 26 inches |
| Weight | 542 pounds | 515 pounds |
| Hydraulic Reservoir Position | not listed | Parallel to beam and cylinder |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Yardmax 35-Ton Full Beam Gas Log Splitter if
- You need to split logs up to 26.5 inches long
- You prefer a full-beam structure for maximum stability
- You do not mind the extra weight for added durability
Choose Yardmax 36-Ton Half-Beam Gas Log Splitter if
- You want the highest splitting force available at 36 tons
- You need a lighter unit that is easier to move
- You value the engine placement away from the operator
Verdict: Choose the 35-ton model if handling longer logs is your priority and you want a robust full-beam frame. The 36-ton half-beam model is better if you need slightly more power and a lighter, more compact footprint. Both machines use the same reliable engine and hydraulic system for consistent performance.
Yardmax 35 vs 36 Splitter Specs
Splitting Force
The Yardmax 36-Ton Half-Beam Gas Log Splitter offers slightly more power than the 35-Ton Full Beam model. Product B provides 36 tons of splitting force, while Product A delivers 35 tons. This one-ton difference may matter when processing dense hardwoods or larger diameter rounds. For most residential users, both machines will handle typical firewood tasks with ease. However, if you regularly tackle very tough species, the extra capacity in Product B gives you a small margin for efficiency. The increased force comes from the same Briggs & Stratton CR950 engine found in both units, ensuring consistent hydraulic performance across the range.
Beam Design
Product A features a Full Beam design, while Product B uses a Half Beam configuration. Both models utilize a patent-pending U-Beam structural design, which the manufacturer claims is significantly stronger than typical I-Beam designs. The Full Beam on Product A runs the entire length of the machine, potentially offering more uniform support along the splitting path. Product B’s Half Beam design pairs with a hydraulic reservoir positioned parallel to the beam and cylinder. This layout balances weight and keeps the reservoir out of the operator’s way. The choice depends on whether you prefer traditional full-length support or the optimized weight distribution of the half-beam setup.
Log Capacity
Table length determines the maximum log size you can split in a single pass. Product A, the Yardmax 35-Ton Full Beam Gas Log Splitter, accommodates logs up to 26.5 inches long. Product B, the Yardmax 36-Ton Half-Beam Gas Log Splitter, handles logs up to 26 inches long. The half-inch difference in Product A allows you to process slightly longer pieces of wood without cutting them down first. This can save time if you are working with naturally long rounds. Both models include adjustable log cradles and an optional mountable log table to assist with positioning. If you frequently split longer logs, Product A’s extra table length is a practical advantage.
Weight and Portability
Product B weighs 515 pounds, making it lighter than Product A, which weighs 542 pounds. This 27-pound difference is noticeable when moving the splitter or loading it onto a truck. Product B is also slightly narrower at 47.5 inches wide compared to Product A’s 48 inches. Both units share the same height of 37 inches and length of 91.5 inches. The lighter weight of Product B may make it easier to maneuver around your yard or workshop. However, both machines are substantial pieces of equipment requiring careful handling. The reduced weight in Product B comes from its Half Beam design, which uses less material than the Full Beam structure of Product A.
Engine Specs
Both splitters are powered by the same Briggs & Stratton CR950 engine. Product B explicitly lists this engine as a 6.5HP, 208cc unit. Product A also uses the CR950 engine, though specific horsepower and displacement figures are not listed in its provided data. Since the engine model is identical, you can expect similar power delivery and reliability from both machines. The hydraulic systems in both units feature oversized components designed to provide the shortest cycle time in their class. This means the speed of the splitting cycle will be comparable. The hydraulic oil filter is mounted inside the reservoir on both models, protecting it from damage and reducing entanglement risks for the operator.
Which Yardmax Splitter Fits Your Needs
You want maximum splitting power
Product B delivers 36 tons of splitting force, one ton more than the 35-ton model. This extra force helps you tackle denser hardwoods or larger diameters with less resistance. The Briggs & Stratton CR950 engine powers this increased capacity, ensuring consistent performance when splitting tough material.
You process longer logs regularly
Product A accommodates logs up to 26.5 inches long, offering half an inch more capacity than Product B. Its full beam design provides a stable platform for these longer pieces. The extended table length supports the wood securely, reducing the need to reposition logs during the splitting cycle.
You prefer a lighter machine
Product B weighs 515 pounds, which is 27 pounds lighter than the 542-pound Product A. This reduced weight makes it slightly easier to move around your yard or shop. The compact width of 47.5 inches also helps it fit into tighter storage spaces compared to the wider full beam model.
The products compared
Yardmax 35-Ton Full Beam Gas Log Splitter
Best for: Thick logs and heavy-duty residential splitting
- Splitting Force
- 35 Ton
- Power Source
- Gas
- Orientation
- Horizontal to vertical
- Beam Style
- Full Beam
- Max Log Length
- 26.5"
- Dimensions
- 91.5 × 48 × 37 inches
View on Amazon: Yardmax 35-Ton Full Beam Gas Log Splitter Affiliate link
This Yardmax model delivers 35 tons of splitting force via a Briggs & Stratton engine. Its full beam design offers greater structural strength than typical I-beam alternatives. You can split logs up to 26.5 inches long using the 2-way full beam option. The oversized hydraulic components provide fast cycle times. Weighing 542 pounds, this unit is built for heavy-duty residential use.
Pros
- 35-ton splitting force for thick hardwoods
- Full beam design is stronger than I-beam
- Accommodates logs up to 26.5 inches
- Oversized hydraulics for fast cycle times
- Includes log cradles and stripper
Cons
- Heavy at 542 pounds
- Large footprint at 91.5 inches long
- No electric start option listed
Good fit if
- You need high force for dense wood
- You want a durable full beam structure
- You have space for a large machine
Skip if
- You need a portable unit under 200 pounds
- You only split small kindling
- You lack space for a 91-inch length
Verdict: YARDMAX 35 Ton Gas Log Splitter is a robust choice for homeowners with thick logs and ample garage space. Its full beam construction and high tonnage handle demanding splitting tasks efficiently.
Yardmax 36-Ton Half-Beam Gas Log Splitter
Best for: Thick logs and high-volume splitting
- Splitting Force
- 36 Ton
- Power Source
- Gas
- Engine Displacement
- 208cc
- Horsepower
- 6.5HP
- Orientation
- horizontal to a vertical position
- Beam Style
- Half Beam, U-Beam
View on Amazon: Yardmax 36-Ton Half-Beam Gas Log Splitter Affiliate link
This YARDMAX splitter delivers 36 tons of splitting force with a 6.5HP Briggs & Stratton engine. The U-Beam design offers structural strength, while the half-beam setup accommodates logs up to 26 inches. You get dual-side loading for balanced weight distribution and oversized hydraulic components for faster cycle times. It is a robust option for homeowners managing larger firewood batches.
Pros
- 36 tons of splitting force
- 6.5HP Briggs & Stratton CR950 engine
- U-Beam structural design for strength
- Accommodates logs up to 26 inches
Cons
- Heavy at 515 pounds
- Large footprint requiring significant storage space
- Gas engine requires fuel maintenance
Good fit if
- You need high splitting force for thick logs
- You have space for a large, heavy machine
- You prefer gas power for consistent performance
Skip if
- You have limited storage space
- You prefer lightweight, portable equipment
- You want to avoid gas maintenance
Verdict: YARDMAX 36 Ton Gas Log Splitter is a powerful, stationary unit for serious wood processing. It fits users who prioritize raw splitting capacity and structural durability over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Yardmax 35-Ton Full Beam Gas Log Splitter | Yardmax 36-Ton Half-Beam Gas Log Splitter |
|---|---|---|
| Splitting Force | 35 Ton | 36 Ton |
| Power Source | Gas | Gas |
| Engine Displacement | not stated | 208cc |
| Horsepower | not stated | 6.5HP |
| Orientation | Horizontal to vertical | horizontal to a vertical position |
| Beam Style | Full Beam | Half Beam, U-Beam |
| Max Log Length | 26.5" | 26" |
| Dimensions | 91.5 × 48 × 37 inches | 91.5 × 47.5 × 37 inches |
| Weight | 542 pounds | 515 pounds |
| Size | 35 Ton | 36 Ton |
| Color | Orange | Orange |
| Model | YU3666 | YS3665 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Yardmax splitter is lighter?
The Yardmax 36-Ton Half-Beam model is lighter. It weighs 515 pounds. The 35-Ton Full Beam version weighs 542 pounds. You save 27 pounds by choosing the 36-ton unit. This difference might matter if you need to move the machine occasionally. Both are heavy, stationary units.
Do they have the same dimensions?
They share the same length and height. Both measure 91.5 inches long and 37 inches high. The width differs slightly. The 35-ton model is 48 inches wide. The 36-ton model is 47.5 inches wide. Check your storage space carefully. The half-beam design allows for a narrower footprint.
What is the main structural difference?
The beam style is the key difference. The 35-ton unit uses a full beam design. The 36-ton unit uses a half-beam design. Full beam construction offers continuous support along the splitting wedge. Half-beam designs often allow for longer logs or easier log rotation. Both use gas power for operation.
Are both models orange?
Yes, both units are orange. The 35-ton Full Beam splitter is orange. The 36-ton Half-Beam splitter is also orange. Color does not affect performance. It is simply a cosmetic choice. You can match your existing equipment or shed decor with either model.
Which model handles thicker logs better?
The 36-ton model has a slight edge in raw power. It provides 36 tons of splitting force. The 35-ton model provides 35 tons. This extra ton helps with dense hardwoods. However, the full beam on the 35-ton model may offer better stability for very thick rounds. Both are designed for heavy residential use.
Is there a significant weight difference for transport?
The weight difference is 27 pounds. The 36-ton unit weighs 515 pounds. The 35-ton unit weighs 542 pounds. This is a small difference for such large machines. Neither is portable. You will need a trailer and strong straps for both. The lighter unit is marginally easier to load.
Do they share the same engine?
Yes, they share the same engine. Both use the Briggs & Stratton CR950 engine. This ensures similar power delivery and maintenance needs. You can use the same oil and filters for both. The engine choice supports the high tonnage ratings. It is a reliable power source for gas log splitters.