Using a Sidetool Log Splitter on the Bobcat E35i Mini Excavator

[MikePhua]

The Bobcat E35i and Its Hydraulic Capabilities
The Bobcat E35i is a compact zero-tail-swing mini excavator designed for tight workspaces and versatile attachment use. Introduced as part of Bobcat’s 3.5-ton class lineup, the E35i features a 24.8 hp engine and a hydraulic system capable of delivering up to 16.9 gallons per minute of auxiliary flow. Its compact frame and smooth control response make it ideal for landscaping, utility trenching, and light forestry work.
Bobcat, founded in 1947 and now part of Doosan Group, has sold hundreds of thousands of compact machines globally. The E35i remains one of its most popular models due to its balance of power, reach, and attachment compatibility.
Terminology Note

• Sidetool: A brand of hydraulic log splitters designed to mount on excavators or skid steers.
  
• Auxiliary Hydraulics: The hydraulic circuit used to power attachments beyond the machine’s primary functions.
  
• Flow Rate: The volume of hydraulic fluid delivered per minute, measured in gallons per minute (GPM).
  
• Splitting Force: The pressure applied by the hydraulic cylinder to split logs, typically measured in tons.
  

Compatibility and Performance Expectations
The Sidetool log splitter is designed to operate within the hydraulic limits of compact machines like the E35i. With a recommended maximum log diameter of 18 inches, the splitter uses a single or four-way wedge to process rounds efficiently. The E35i’s hydraulic pressure of 3,000 psi and flow rate of nearly 17 GPM are well within the operating range for Sidetool’s standard splitter models.
Expected performance includes:

• Splitting force of approximately 25 tons
  
• Cycle times under 10 seconds for single wedge operation
  
• Ability to process hardwoods like oak and maple with moderate effort
  
• Stable operation when mounted on the excavator’s boom or quick coupler
  

In one field test, a landscaping crew in Vermont used a Sidetool splitter on an E35i to process over 12 cords of mixed hardwood in three days. The operator noted that the machine’s smooth hydraulics and precise control allowed for efficient log handling and minimal repositioning.
Mounting and Operational Setup
To mount the Sidetool splitter:

• Use a compatible excavator mounting plate welded to the splitter’s beam
  
• Connect hydraulic hoses to the E35i’s auxiliary couplers using flat-face fittings
  
• Secure the attachment with the X-Change coupler system or a pin-on bracket
  
• Test hydraulic flow and cylinder response before full operation
  

Operators should ensure that the splitter is mounted with the wedge facing away from the cab to prevent debris from striking the machine. A protective screen or deflector may be added for safety.
Safety and Efficiency Tips

• Always operate on level ground with the excavator tracks fully extended
  
• Use a spotter when handling large or irregular logs
  
• Avoid splitting frozen or excessively knotty wood without pre-scoring
  
• Keep hydraulic hoses away from pinch points and sharp edges
  
• Wear eye protection and gloves during operation
  

Routine inspection of the wedge, cylinder seals, and hose connections will prevent downtime. Grease pivot points and check for hydraulic leaks daily.
Anecdote from the Field
In 2021, a firewood supplier in Michigan retrofitted a Sidetool splitter to his E35i to replace a trailer-mounted unit. The excavator-mounted splitter allowed him to pick up logs directly from the pile, split them in mid-air, and stack them without leaving the cab. Productivity increased by 40%, and the operator reported less fatigue and fewer handling injuries.
Manufacturer History and Attachment Evolution
Sidetool has developed a range of hydraulic attachments for compact equipment, including splitters, grapples, and stump pullers. Their log splitters are built with hardened steel wedges, high-capacity cylinders, and modular mounting options. Bobcat’s E35i, with its zero-tail-swing design and robust auxiliary hydraulics, is an ideal platform for such tools.
The global market for mini excavator attachments has grown steadily, with log splitters representing a niche but expanding segment. Forestry contractors, firewood suppliers, and rural property owners increasingly use excavator-mounted splitters for mobility and efficiency.
Recommendations for Owners and Operators

• Match splitter size and weight to the excavator’s lift capacity and hydraulic specs
  
• Use quick couplers and flat-face fittings for clean, leak-free connections
  
• Keep spare wedges and cylinder seals in inventory
  
• Train operators on safe log handling and emergency shutoff procedures
  
• Document attachment use and maintenance for resale and warranty tracking
  

Conclusion
Mounting a Sidetool log splitter on a Bobcat E35i transforms the mini excavator into a powerful firewood processor. With the right setup, hydraulic tuning, and safety practices, operators can achieve high productivity and reduce manual labor. Whether clearing storm debris or preparing winter fuel, this combination offers a rugged, efficient solution for modern land management.