Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for hydraulically adjusting and setting a fixed position of an axially displaceable shaft and rotary chipper disc combination, without requiring an attachment to or obstruction of an end face of either end of the axially displaceable shaft. A rotary chipper disc recoil mechanism is also provided for the purpose of detection of unwanted axial and radial forces placed upon the rotating shaft caused by unintentional chipping of metal, and for limiting consequential damage caused by the unintentional chipping of metal and other non-wood materials.