Skidding firewood

[JayChase]

Started skidding firewood logs with my haflingers today. The horses were a bit jumpy, but after a near wreck, we got them untangled and pulled the log. While skidding the second log, the evener kept skipping on the ground making the horses very flighty. I tried to persevere, but decided to unhook and try another day. The wife thought we weren’t very efficient, and she was right… However frustrated I got, I was happy I didn’t show it to the horses and everyone is safe to work another day. We then went a nice fall wagon ride, everyone worked well! The worst day with horses is better than the best day without them, as long as no one gets hurt!

[Dickel]

Thanks for sharing.

I totally agree that a bad day with horses is better than a good day without them. I think it takes me more repetition to learn something than it does my horses. 🙂

[Brad Johnson]

Jay-
You might try shortening up your trace chains so that once you are hooked the evener is well up off the ground. That way, not only do you avoid the sound of the metal on the ground but you also improve your angle of draft and get more lift on the front of the logs.
-Brad

[JayChase]

Thanks Brad, I also want to shorten up the log chain. The trials of a weekend warrior – Wait ’till next Saturday!

[Donn Hewes]

Hi all, I like the idea of shortening the trace chains to improve the lift, lighten the load, and reduce the impact on the ground. I just wouldn’t think to shorten it for a horse that was reacting to it on the ground. Number one, if you do shorten it you really should lengthen it after you unhook it from the log. I never want an evener hitting their legs as they walk. Second, the noise and action of the evener on the ground is “what they are there for”. If they aren’t handling it well, what steps were taken to prepare them for these noises and things behind them? Donn

[JayChase]

Donn,
You always have a good perspective. I do believe I have a haflinger that needs to be desensitized to the sound of the evener!
Jay

P.S.- someday I’d like to make it to your farm, it’s not too far.

[Donn Hewes]

Jay, you are always welcome. Give me a call, 607 849 4442.

[bird]

I skidded some logs for the first time not long ago, too. I tried with one horse and a single tree. Soon found that I needed to have someone lead his teammate who got upset at being left out despite being able to watch. Things went okay ‘cept the single tree bumped the horse’s ankles. Gotta make the chains a little longer. I think I need to try a doubletree set-up and use both animals when I’m alone.

[Ronnie Tucker]

if the doubletree was slapping the ground your log must have been mighty light.hooking close to the log is best.

[JayChase]

So I recently bought a forecart at an Amish auction and all of my skidding problems were solved! I love the information posted on these forums!
Jay

P.S. – Donn, I will call you about visiting when things seem to slow down here. I also purchased a horse drawn reel lawn mower at the same auction that you might find interesting!

[LStone]

Not for nothing but when my guys were younger and greener. I was told that they had to get used of loud noises such as those you’re describing. Chains and metal on metal / ground, chainsaws etc. I think Carl suggested to me that to show my own confidence, that I split wood next to them in the pasture. I also ran the chainsaw as well and was not the least bit careful of making noises such as dropping eveners and chains all around and in back of them. They are very compliant to loud noises now. I even popped my share of balloons near them as well. They just can’t get over the air bladders blowing off on air systems in trucks. and very loose and rickety equipment type trailers going down the road. I don’t own one so it isn’t too handy to practice with. The only practice I get is on the street. Keep after it. I maintain all things are mastered with time and repetitions.

[Author]

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