Briggs & Stratton LS401221, LS401216, LS401213, LS401224 User Manual

VERTICAL/HORIZONTAL

LOG SPLITTERS

MODEL NO. LS401221

22 TON

MODEL NO. LS401213

28 TON

MODEL NO. LS401216

25 TON

MODEL NO. LS401224

34 TON

ASSEMBLY & OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

THIS SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL IDENTIFIES IMPORTANT SAFETY MESSAGES IN THIS MANUAL.

LS50-634-803

IMPORTANT: BEFORE OPERATING THIS LOG SPLITTER, READ AND UNDERSTAND THIS MANUAL COMPLETELY.

BECOME FAMILIAR WITH IT FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY. TO FAIL TO DO SO MAY CAUSE SERIOUS
INJURY. DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO OPERATE YOUR LOG SPLITTER WHO HAS NOT READ THIS
MANUAL. READ EACH STEP COMPLETELY BEFORE PROCEEDING.

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

NOTE: The following instructions pertain to four SpeeCo log splitters, the 22 ton (LS401221), 25 ton (LS401216), 28 ton (LS401213)

and the 34 ton (LS401224). The four models share most of the component parts. Any dif ferences are noted in the parts list and assembly
instructions.

NOTE: This log splitter was partially assembled at the factory. Refer to the drawing and parts list should it become necessary to disassemble the

unit for repair or replacement of parts.

STEP 1: Remove all the components from the crate. Inspect each piece for shipping damage. If any part is damaged, contact your dealer or

delivering carrier.

STEP 2: Attach the tongue (3) to the tank/axle (2) as shown in the diagram using the two 1/2 in. NC x 4-1/2 in. hex cap screws (48), 1/2 in.

lockwashers (47) and 1/2 in. NC hex nuts (46) from the hardware kit. Tighten. Make sure the ground stand (24) is in the vertical position.
NOTE: Flatwashers are included in the hardware kit should it be necessary to use them as spacers. This will eliminate play between the
tongue and the tank/tongue mounting plate.

STEP 3: Remove the rubber covering from the two spindles on the tank/axle (2). The wheel bearing cups, bearing cones, grease seals and hub

caps are already assembled. Bearing cones have been greased at the factory. Remove the hub cap (62) by prying it loose with a
common tip screwdriver. Mount the wheels (54) to the spindles on the tank/axle (2) using the 3/4 in. light flatwasher (59) and the
3/4 in. slotted nut (60) from the hardware kit. Tighten the nut until bearing play is removed and the wheel will still rotate freely. Install the
cotter pin (61) and hub cap (62). Repeat step 4 for the other wheel.

STEP 4: Stand the beam (1) up on end. NOTE: At least two people are required to raise the beam for the 28 ton and 34 ton models to insure

safety and prevent injury. Make sure that the beam is stable. Remove the pivot pin (52) and the clip pin (53) from the tank/axle (2). Roll
the axle/tongue assembly into position between the two tabs on the beam (1). Slide the pivot pin (52) through the holes and lock in place
with the clip pin (53).

STEP 5: Connect the end of the 1/2 in. I.D. x 44 in. (28 & 34 ton models) or 1/2 in. I.D. x 42 in. (22 & 25 ton models) hydraulic hose (21) coming

from the fitting (20) on the pump (9) to the fitting (75) on the valve (5) .

STEP 6: Slide one hose clamp (50) on the end of the 3/4 in. I.D. x 37 in. (28 ton and 34 ton models) or 3/4 in. I.D. x 32-1/2 in.

(22 & 25 ton models) hydraulic hose (49) that comes from the fitting on the tank/axle (2). Then connect the hose to the fitting (69) on the
valve (5). Tighten the hose clamp.

STEP 7: If the optional fender kit (standard on the 34 ton model) was purchased, attach the fenders (44) to the tank/axle (2) using the 1/4 in. NC

x 3/4 in. hex cap screws (43), 1/4 in. flatwashers (42), 1/4 in. lockwashers (41) and 1/4 in. hex nuts (40). Tighten.

OPERA TING INSTRUCTIONS

STEP 1: STARTING

CAUTION: DO NOT START OR RUN THE ENGINE BEFORE READING ALL OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS AND

NOTES ON SAFETY THOROUGHLY.

IMPORTANT: The engine and hydraulic tank are shipped without oil. See the engine operating and maintenance instructions manual packed with

your log splitter for the type of crankcase oil, fuel, etc. The engine manufacturer recommends lead-free gasoline only .

Page 1

CAUTION: DO NOT START OR RUN THE ENGINE WITHOUT OIL IN THE HYDRAULIC RESERVOIR AND ENGINE.

STEP 2: The hydraulic reservoir should be filled with an SAE 20 hydraulic oil. If hydraulic oil is difficult to obtain, automatic transmission fluid can
be substituted and should be used instead of hydraulic oil when temperatures are below 32 degrees F. Use only clean oil and take care to
prevent dirt from entering the hydraulic reservoir.

CAUTION: WHEN TIGHTENING THE BREATHER CAP ON THE TANK, POINT THE HOLE AWAY FROM THE ENGINE

AND THE OPERATOR ZONE.

ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS

1) 25 Ton, 28 Ton and 34 Ton Models- For temperatures above 40 degrees F use an SAE 30W oil. Using multigrade oil may increase oil
consumption. Using SAE 30W oil below 40 degrees F will result in hard starting and possible engine bore damage. For temperatures below
40 degrees F use an SAE 10W-30 or SAE 5W-30 oil. Oil capacity is about 1-1/2 quarts (48 ounces; 1.4 liters).

2) 22 Ton Model- For temperatures above 40 degrees F use an SAE 30W oil. Using multigrade oils may increase oil consumption. Using SAE 30W
oil below 40 degrees F will result in hard starting and possible engine bore damage. For temperatures below 40 degrees F use an SAE 10W-30
or SAE 5W-30 oil. Oil capacity is approximately 5/8 quart (20 ounces; 0.6 liter).

DIRECTIONS FOR FILLING HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

Fill the hydraulic reservoir with at least five gallons of hydraulic fluid (25 ton, 28 ton & 34 ton models). Use at least four gallons for the 22 ton model.
After the hydraulic reservoir and the engine crankcase are filled with oil, start the engine. The hydraulic pump should prime itself. With the engine
running, move the hydraulic valve lever toward the wedge. This will cause the cylinder to extend and expel air. When the cylinder is fully extended,
retract it. Repeat this procedure several times. An erratic movement of the cylinder indicates that there is still air in the system. More oil should then
be added to bring the fluid level up to the “OK” range on the dipstick. Total hydraulic capacities are as follows: 34 ton model - 8-1/2 gallons; 28 ton
and 25 ton models- 8 gallons; 22 ton model- 5 gallons. NOTE: If the tank is overfilled, it will tend to expel oil from the breather cap when the
cylinder is retracted. After adding more oil to the tank, cycle the cylinder again until it has a constant speed indicating that all oil has been expelled.
Check the oil level in the reservoir again with the dipstick to make sure it is in the “OK” range.

STARTING INSTRUCTIONS

Refer also to the Engine Operating and Maintenance Instructions manual for your particular log splitter.

1) 25 Ton, 28 Ton and 34 Ton Models with 8 h.p. Engine
a) Move the throttle lever to “FAST”. Always operate the engine with throttle lever in the “FAST” position

b) Move choke control lever to “CHOKE” position.
c) Grasp rope handle and pull slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull rapidly to start engine and avoid engine kickback.
d) Allow the engine to warm up. If operating in warm weather, move the choke control lever toward “RUN” a short distance at a time over
several seconds. For cold weather operation do this procedure over several minutes. Operate with choke lever in the “RUN” position.
e) To stop engine, move the throttle lever to the “STOP” position.

2) 22 Ton Model with 6 h.p. Engine and Primer
a) Move control lever to “FAST.”

b) Push primer bulb three (3) times.

NOTE: DO NOT USE PRIMER TO RESTART A WARM ENGINE AFTER A SHORT SHUTDOWN.

c) Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull rope rapidly with full arm stroke. Let rope return to starter
slowly.

d) When engine starts, leave the control lever at “FAST.” The throttle must be in the “FAST” position for maximum performance.

Page 2

STEP 3: The engine maximum governed speed is preset at the factory at 3600 RPM no load speed. When splitting wood, the throttle should

be set at the maximum setting to develop the horsepower required for the pump.

STEP 4: TOWING

The log splitter is equipped with road-speed tires, a Class I coupler (2 in. diameter ball required) and safety chains. Before towing,
the safety chains must be secured to the hitch or bumper of the vehicle. Local regulations should be checked regarding licensing, lights,
towing, etc. See also T owing Safety in the Safety Information section of this manual.

STEP 5: OPERATION

WARNING: ALWAYS WEAR SAFETY GLASSES DURING OPERA TION.
DANGER: KEEP HANDS AND FEET CLEAR OF RAM, STRIPPER PLATES AND BASE PLA TE AT ALL TIMES.

1) Set up the log splitter in a clear, level area and block the wheels. Make sure that the suction port on the tanks is always on the lower
side of the log splitter.

2) Place a log on the beam against the foot plate. Make sure that the log is securely on the foot plate and up against the beam.

3) Depress the valve handle so that the cylinder will drive the wedge into the log. Extend the cylinder until the log splits or to the end of
its stroke. If the log has not completely split after the cylinder has reached the end of its extension, retract the cylinder.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the valve in the “actuate” position at the end of the stroke may damage the pump. Always use extra care
when splitting logs with unsquare ends.

NOTE: For operation in wooded areas, obtain a spark arrestor for the exhaust system. See the engine operating and maintenance manual

and check with your authorized Briggs & Stratton service center. See also Prevent Fire in the Safey Information section
of this manual.

IMPORTANT: TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF THE HYDRAULIC CYLINDER, AVOID “BOTTOMING OUT” WEDGE PLATE TO THE FOOT

PIECE. TO CONFORM WITH INDUSTRY SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS, THE WEDGE STOPS 2 INCHES FROM
THE END OF THE STROKE.

MAINTENANCE

1) Consult the operating and maintenance instructions of the engine manufacturer for engine care and maintenance.

2) Always check the oil level of the hydraulic reservoir before operation. Operating the log splitter without an adequate oil supply
will cause severe damage to the pump.

3) Change the oil filter after the first 25 hours of operation. Thereafter, change the oil filter every 100 hours or seasonally, whichever comes first.

4) If the wedge becomes dull or nicked, it can be removed and sharpened. Remove the 1/2 in. diameter bolt that connects the wedge to the
cylinder. The hose from the valve may need to be removed. While the log splitter is in the horizontal position, loosen the hose clamp and
disconnect the hose from the valve. Carefully lift the cylinder to allow the wedge to slide forward. The wedge can now be lifted off and
sharpened.

5) Clean the breather cap after 25 hours of operation. Clean it more often when operated in dusty conditions. To clean, remove the breather from
the tank and flush with kerosene or liquid detergent to remove the dirt.

6) See also Repair and Maintenance Safety in the Safety Information section of this manual.

7) All replacement parts must meet manufacturer’s specifications.

Page 3