Question

tree 1  

tree 2   What is this happening to my tree , the black scarring goes all the to top , tree appears to be splitting and cracking , blackish looking moldy rings on tree parts that have died and been cut,lots of cut off pieces are hollow and black and ashy looing inside. Tree
appears to be slightly wilting at top , no spots or spotting on leaves that i can tell.

Answer
Tamy:
This black stuff in your photo appears as a fungus called Hypoxylon.  It causes a canker on many hardwood trees.  Based on this, I suspect that your tree does have some level of internal decay.  This is often a slow, yet progressive process for which there is no magic bullet.  The tree will continue to decline and eventually become structurally compromised.  It may pose a hazard to person or property, especially one day if there is a wind storm or ice accumulation.  The tree may persist for several years, however be aware it will eventually become a risk factor.

You can read about Hypoxylon in a bulletin that I have prepared.  It is located at the following web address.   

http://www.uaex.edu/Other_Areas/publications/PDF/FSA-7557.pdf

Regards
Steve