DIY Hand Crank Firewood Bundler Plans

If you’re a wood stove enthusiast, you know the importance of well-prepared firewood. A hand crank firewood bundler can simplify the process of bundling logs for efficient storage and burning. In this guide, we provide you with accurate, clear, and concise technical details for building your own hand crank firewood bundler.

Materials Needed:

1. Base Frame:
2. Two 2×4 wooden boards (8 feet each)
3. Four 2×4 wooden boards (3 feet each)
4. Screws
5. Screwdriver

6. Hand Crank Mechanism:
7. Steel pipe (1-inch diameter, 36 inches long)
8. Steel rod (1/2-inch diameter, 24 inches long)
9. Pillow block bearings (to fit 1/2-inch rod)
10. Hand crank handle
11. Screws
12. Wrench

13. Bundler Arm:
14. One 2×6 wooden board (8 feet long)
15. Screws
16. Drill

17. Tying Mechanism:
18. Steel wire or heavy-duty twine
19. Steel hooks
20. Screw eyes
21. Pliers

Assembly Steps:

1. Build the Base Frame:
2. Lay the two 8-foot 2×4 boards parallel to each other, with a 3-foot 2×4 at each end, creating a rectangular frame.
3. Screw the 3-foot boards to the longer boards, ensuring a sturdy base.

4. Install Hand Crank Mechanism:
5. Attach one pillow block bearing to the center of the 3-foot frame (this is where the steel rod will rotate).
6. Insert the 1/2-inch steel rod through the bearing.
7. Attach the hand crank handle to the end of the steel pipe.
8. Slide the steel pipe onto the protruding end of the steel rod.
9. Secure the pipe and rod with screws.
10. The hand crank should now rotate smoothly.

11. Attach Bundler Arm:
12. Mount the 8-foot 2×6 wooden board perpendicular to the base frame, making sure it’s centered.
13. Screw the board securely to the base frame.

14. Tying Mechanism:
15. Install screw eyes at one end of the bundler arm to hold the steel wire or twine.
16. Attach steel hooks on the base frame for securing the other end of the wire or twine.
17. Pull the wire or twine tight between the bundler arm and the base frame, creating a tensioned line for bundling logs.

How to Use the Hand Crank Firewood Bundler:

1. Place Logs: Lay your logs on the bundler arm with their ends aligned along the tensioned wire or twine.

2. Crank the Handle: Rotate the hand crank handle. This action will draw the bundler arm down, compressing the logs together.

3. Secure the Bundle: Once the logs are bundled tightly, secure the wire or twine by twisting it around the bundle and tying a knot or using additional hooks.

4. Release the Arm: Lift the bundler arm, and your firewood bundle is ready for storage or use in your wood stove.

Maintenance:

• Keep the pillow block bearing lubricated to ensure smooth rotation.
• Check the bundler arm for any signs of wear or damage and replace as needed.
• Inspect the wire or twine for fraying and replace if necessary to ensure safe bundling.

Conclusion:

Building your own hand crank firewood bundler can be a rewarding project for wood stove users. With these clear and concise plans, you can efficiently prepare your firewood for convenient storage and use. Properly assembled and maintained, this bundler will serve you well, making your wood-burning experience even more enjoyable.