Clarke Log Buster 3 Operation & Maintenance Instructions Manual

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE

INSTRUCTIONS

0205

MODEL NO: Log Buster 3

PART No: 3402020

LOG SPLITTER

4 Tonne Force

LOG SPLITTER

4 Tonne Force

Thank you for purchasing this CLARKE Log Buster.

Before attempting to use the machine, please read this manual thoroughly and follow the
instructions carefully. In doing so you will ensure the safety of yourself and that of others
around you, and you can look forward to the log buster giving you long and satisfactory
service.

Specifications

Model No: .................................................... Log Buster 3

Part No: ........................................................ 3402020

Supply Voltage: ........................................... 230vac 50Hz

Motor: ........................................................... 2hp-1500w

IP Rating: ...................................................... IP54

Weight: ......................................................... 45kg

Dimensions L x W x H: .................................. 1160 x 323 x 460mm

LOG CAPACITY

Maximum Length: ....................................... 520mm

Maximum Diameter: ................................... 250mm

Minimum Diameter: .................................... 50mm

Please note that the details and specifications contained herein, are correct at the time of going to print. However,

CLARKE International reserve the right to change specifications at any time without prior notice.

CLARKE GUARANTEE

This CLARKE product is guaranteed against faulty manufacture for a period of 12
months from the date of purchase. Please keep your receipt as proof of purchase.

This guarantee is invalid if the product is found to have been abused or tampered
with in any way, or not used for the purpose for which it was intended.

Faulty goods should be returned to their place of purchase, no product can be
returned to us without prior permission.

This guarantee does not effect your statutory rights.

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Check List

Before commencing to assemble your log splitter, please check for shortages and or
damage, any discrepancies should be reported to the Clarke dealer where the machine

was purchased as soon as possible.

Double Ended Spanners 2 off 10mm x 12mm & 1 off 13mm x 16mm.

1 Off, Operating and Maintenance Instructions.

1 Off, Log splitter (main body including motor and oil pump).

1 Off, Safety Cover (Item 70).

2 Off, Handle assembly (Items 60 & 61).

1 Off, Wheel assembly (Items 66, 65 x 2, 64 x 2 & 63a x 2).

1 Off, Leg assembly (Items 22, 21 & 20).

1 Off, Handle (19).

1 Off, Pack of nuts bolts and washers.

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Safety Precautions

WARNING:

As with all machinery, there are certain hazards involved with their operation

and use. Exercising respect and caution will considerably lessen the risk of

personal injury. However, if normal safety precautions are overlooked or

ignored, personal injury to the operator or damage to property, may result.

1. ALWAYS Learn the machines applications, limitations and the
specific potential hazards peculiar to it. Read and become familiar
with the entire operating manual.

2. ALWAYS use a face or dust mask if operation is particularly dusty.

3. ALWAYS check for damage. Before using the machine, any

damaged part, should be checked to ensure that it will operate
properly, and perform its intended function. Check for alignment
of moving parts, breakage of parts, mountings, and any other
condition that may affect the machines operation. Any damage should be properly
repaired or the part replaced. If in doubt, DO NOT use the machine. Consult your
local dealer.

4. ALWAYS disconnect the tool/machine from the power supply before servicing and
when changing accessories.

5. ALWAYS wear safety goggles, manufactured to the latest European Safety Standards.
Everyday eyeglasses do not have impact resistant lenses, they are not safety
glasses.

6. ALWAYS keep work area clean. Cluttered areas and

benches invite accidents.

7. ALWAYS ensure that adequate lighting is available. A
minimum intensity of 300 lux should be provided. Ensure
that lighting is placed so that you will not be working in
your own shadow.

8. ALWAYS keep children away. All visitors should be kept a safe distance from the

work area, especially whilst operating the machine.

9. ALWAYS maintain machine in top condition. Keep tools/machines

clean for the best and safest performance. Follow maintenance
instructions.

10. ALWAYS handle with extreme care do not carry the tool/machine
by its’ electric cable, or yank the cable to disconnect it from the
power supply.

11. ALWAYS ensure the switch is off before plugging in to mains. Avoid
accidental starting.

12. ALWAYS concentrate on the job in hand, no matter how trivial it may
seem. Be aware that accidents are caused by

carelessness due to familiarity.

13. ALWAYS keep your proper footing and balance at all

times - don’t overreach. For best footing, always wear
safety footwear (rubber soles & steel toecaps). Keep floor
clear of oil, scrap wood, etc.

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Extra Precautions for Log Splitters

Extra special care is required when using this powerful tool to safeguard yourself and that of
others around you.

• Before using the log splitter, check for fluid leaks. Be sure the tool and the work area
around it is clean and free of oil spills. Hydraulic fluid can create hazards, causing you
to slip and fall, your hands to slip while using the machine, and it is also a potential fire
hazard.

• Hydraulic Systems: Never operate this tool if there is a potential hazard due to leaking

hydraulic fluid.

• Electrical Safety: Never operate this tool in wet conditions.

• Physical Hazards: The very nature of log splitting will produce splinters. When operating

log splitters, always ensure approved safety gloves, shoes,
and eye protection is worn.

• NEVER tamper with the log splitter or attempt to operate

the machine without covers fitted.

• NEVER work with the machine on the ground. This is not
only an uncomfortable working position but it can also be
dangerous because the operator has to bend towards
the machine, and thus risk being struck by chips or debris.

• NEVER try to split logs larger than those indicated in Fig. 2.

This could be dangerous and may damage the machine.

• Do not allow split logs to accumulate, always clean up as

you work, accumulated split logs and wood chips can

create a hazardous work environment.

• The operator must take all necessary precautions to minimize

the risk of accidental damage or injury due to wood being
ejected from the machine.

• The operator must operate the machines’ controls with both hands without using

other makeshift systems, i.e. wedging control levers down etc.

• For the best and safest use, the logbuster MUST be used on a raised surface, of sufficient

height, so that when the logbuster is mounted, the main bed of the machine is no
higher. or lower, than the extended arms of the operator,
without the operator having to bend forward (see Fig. 1).

• The surface must be perfectly level to prevent the machine

from moving during operation, and the area must be free
from any objects that could prevent complete freedom of
movement for the operator whilst working.

• The machine must always be used by ONE OPERATOR

ONLY. Nobody must be allowed to use the log splitter

unless they have read the instruction manual thoroughly

and have been instructed in its use. The machine must
be used by adults only. Check that the logs to be split
are free from nails or wire, which may fly up or damage the machine. The ends of the
logs must be cut square. Branches must be cut off flush with the trunk.

• Never attempt to split two logs at once; one may be ejected with possibly serious

damage.

• Split wood in the direction of the grain. Do not attempt to split a piece of wood across

the grain as this could seriously damage the machine.

Fig. 1

Fig. 2

520mm

250mm

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• If the log moves away from the blade, retract the ram and rotate the
log through 90O as shown in Fig. 3.

• Do not attempt to load the log in the machine whilst the log pusher is in

motion, you could get trapped and injured.

• Keep your hands well away from any splits and cracks which open in
the log; these may close suddenly and crush your fingers.

• Never attempt to split a log for longer than 5 seconds. After this time interval, the oil

under pressure is overheated and the machine could be damaged. It is therefore

better to stop and rotate the log by 90O, as shown above, to see whether it can be
split in a different position.

• Not being able to split the log within this time, indicates that its hardness exceeds the
capacity of the machine and it should therefore be

discarded so as not to cause damage/injury.

• Do not force the blade by pushing the log on the

upper part (Fig. 4), as this can cause the blade to

break or damage the body of the machine. Always

set the log on the guides.

• Never leave the machine unattended while it is
running. If you leave the machine, even for a short
time, disconnect from the power supply.

• NEVER use the machine whilst under the influence

of alcohol, drugs, medicines, or when you are tired.

A clear mind is essential for safety.

• Never request the assistance of another person to help you remove a jammed log.

• NEVER use the machine in a dangerous environment i.e. damp or wet conditions, or

expose it to rain. DO NOT use in a potentially explosive atmosphere (around paint,

flammable liquids etc.)

• ALWAYS comply with the requirements for electrical installation .

• Make sure that the machine and the cable never come in contact with water.

• Treat the power cable with care, do not attempt to move the machine by pulling the

cable. Do not yank the cable to unplug it; keep the cable away from excessive heat,

oil and sharp objects.

• ALWAYS disconnect the power cable when not in use, when carrying out maintenance

work or when moving the machine.

• Never use the Logbuster if it is not in perfect order or if it needs servicing.

• Before starting work, check correct functioning of all the safety devices and check for

soundness of welded joints, securing nuts & bolts.

Figure 2 shows the maximum log size that can be split. Please note that the diameter of the
log is indicative: i.e. A small log can be difficult to split if it has knots or a particularly tough fibre.
On the other hand, if the wood has regular fibres, it is not difficult to split logs with diameters
greater than that shown in Figure 2. It is important NOT to persist if the log does not split on the
first attempt, as the pump may be damaged by the oil overheating. This could occur when
the machine is made to work under maximum stress in an attempt to split excessively fibrous,
knotty wood or wet, green wood. Do not attempt to split a log for longer than 5 seconds.

Fig. 3

Fig. 4

Size of logs to be split

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This machine must be wired up in accordance with the following colour code:

BLUE - NEUTRAL
BROWN - LIVE
GREEN/YELLOW - EARTH

• Connect the BLUE coloured cord to the plug terminal marked “N”

• Connect the BROWN coloured cord to the plug terminal marked “L”

• Connect the GREEN/YELLOW coloured cord to the plug terminal marked “E”

If this appliance is fitted with a plug which is moulded on to
the electric cable (i.e. non-rewireable) please note:

1. The plug must be thrown away if it is cut from the
electric cable. There is a danger of electric shock if it
is subsequently inserted into a socket outlet.

2. Never use the plug without the fuse cover fitted.

Fuse Rating

The fuse in the plug must be replaced with one of the same rating (13 amps) and this
replacement must be approved to BS1362.

If in doubt, consult a qualified electrician. Do not attempt any electrical repairs yourself.

Cable Extension

Always use an approved cable extension suitable for the power rating of this tool (see
specifications), the conductor size should also be at least the same size as that on the
machine, or larger. When using a cable reel, always unwind the cable completely.

3. Should you wish to replace a detachable fuse carrier, ensure that the correct
replacement is used (as indicated by marking or colour code).

4. Replacement fuse covers can be obtained from your local dealer or most electrical
stockists.

IMPORTANT:

If a cable extension is needed, it is essential to comply with the following data.

Voltage Extension length Cable section

230v Up to 20m 2.5mm

2

230v From 20 to 50m 4mm

2

This product is provided with a standard 13 amp, 230 volt (50Hz), BS 1363 plug, for
connection to a standard, domestic electrical supply. Should the plug need changing at
any time, ensure that a plug of identical specification is used.

Electrical Connections

WARNING ! THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED

WARNING

This equipment MUST be connected through an RCD (Residual Current Device)

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Assembly

With the assistance of another person, carefully remove all contents from the carton, carefully
lay out and check for shortages or damage etc, ref check list on page 2. Any discrepancies
should be reported to the Clarke dealer where the machine was purchased.

Main Body inc Motor
and Oil Pump

Handle

Safety Cover

Operating Handles

Wheel Assy

Nuts Bolts
& Washers

Spanners

Legs

Fig. 5

Assemble as follows:

1. Carefully turn the main body onto its back (Fig. 6), take care it doesn’t fall over.

Fig. 6

Instruction Manual

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Fig. 7

4. Loosen and remove 2 domed
nuts Fig. 9, store safely for
re-use.

2. Attach the legs to the body using nuts bolts
and washers supplied (Fig. 7), loosely fit both

nuts and bolts, line up legs and tighten bolts.

3. Attach the handle to the front legs using screws,
nuts and washers supplied Fig. 8.

NOTE: insert screw with washer through the
handle and secure to the legs with locknut.

DO NOT Overtighten.

Fig. 9

Domed Nuts

4. Before attaching the wheel assy, pass the
power cable through the frame as shown
in Fig. 10. Ensure the cable is not trapped
anywhere before securing assy to main
body.

Fig. 10

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Fig. 8

6. Attach the safety cover using nuts bolts and washers supplied (Fig. 12). DO NOT
overtighten nuts.

WARNING

NEVER operate the machine with this cover removed, this is a safety cover making it
necessary to use both hands to operate.

Fig. 12

5. Carefully turn the machine over onto its feet.
Stand the log splitter on a firm level surface, attach the handles by screwing onto

short shafts in a clockwise direction (Fig. 11). Tighten handles using spanner supplied,
DO NOT overtighten.

Fig. 11

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Operation

Splitting Wedge

Log Support Guides

Log Pusher

Safety Cover

Operating Handles

Oil Pump Assembly

Motor

Motor Start/Stop
Button

Fig. 13

• Before plugging in and switching ON, ensure the machine is sited safely on a raised
flat level surface.

• If possible have a truck or similar available to stack the split logs into for easy
transportation to a location where the logs are to be stacked.

• Prepare the logs for splitting in a tidy pile as close

as possible to the splitter, only stack those logs
that are ok for splitting, i.e. length and diameter.
DO NOT attempt to split green logs, dry,
seasoned logs split more easily.

• Route the power supply cord safely from the

machine to the 13amp socket, whilst ensuring it
is not causing an obstruction, and is not likely to
be damaged by falling logs etc. Avoid wet
conditions.

• Loosen the air bleed screw 3 or 4 full turns (Fig.

14),be sure to re-tighten the screw when finished

using the machine.

• Plug the power cord into a 13amp socket and
switch on the electric supply.

• Position the log to be split so that it fits neatly on

the log support guides, if the log tends to

Fig. 14

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wobble, it must be repositioned by turning until it becomes stable.

• Press the motor start button, and wait for the motor to reach full speed before

continuing.

• Using both hands, push the operating handles down as far as possible. The log pusher

will push the log into the splitting wedge, causing the log to split.

• The two halves can be split again, one at a time. the operation can be repeated,
until the log has been split sufficiently.

Note: If the log does not split immediately, do not force it by maintaining the thrust for more
than five seconds. It is advisable to bring the log pusher back to the rest position and try
again by repositioning the log.

It can sometimes be difficult to split small logs, especially if the wood is particularly hard or
knotty, larger logs with regular fibres are quick and easy to split. Any logs found difficult to
split, are best discarded to prevent damage to the machine caused by the oil overheating
etc.

• When finished using the machine, switch OFF and isolate from the electric supply by
removing the plug from the socket.

Note: During normal operation, the metal parts connected to the motor, will at most reach a
temperature slightly higher than the ambient temperature. After several hours of continuous
use, the pump may become very hot. This is not detrimental to the machine, however it is
very important to not cause overheating of the oil by attempting to split very hard logs that
exceed the capacity of the splitter.

Maintenance

Before attempting any maintenance activities, ALWAYS switch OFF and Isolate from the
power supply, by removing the plug from the socket.

1. Before each use

Always inspect the machine to ensure it is in good condition. Inspect the bed and welded
joints for signs of cracking or distortion. Inspect the hydraulics for signs
of leaks, any defects should be rectified before using the
machine again.

2. Monthly

Check oil level by tilting the machine as shown in Fig. 10. It is
necessary to remove the safety cover (item 70) first.
Remove the oil filler plug/dipstick Fig. 15, the oil level should be
within the two marks, min and maximum. Top up if necessary
with Clarke hydraulic oil.

3. Every 400 hours of use

Change the hydraulic oil as follows,

3.1 Place a container, large enough to hold 4 litres of oil under the oil filler

plug, Loosen the breather Fig. 16 three or four turns.

3.2 Loosen and remove the oil filer plug/dipstick, slowly tilt the

machine as in Fig. 17 to empty the oil.

3.4 To refill with new oil, tilt machine as in Fig. 15, using a clean

funnel, pour in 2.1 Litres of Clarke hydraulic oil,

Fig. 15

Fig. 16

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IMPORTANT: use ONLY CLARKE HYDRAULIC OIL, available
from your nearest dealer.

Part No: 1Ltr - 3050830

5Ltr - 3050835

3.5 Wipe the dipstick, using a clean soft cloth and check

the oil level as before, and add more oil as required.

3.6 Clean the filler neck and plug/dipstick washer/seal

thoroughly and refit, tighten sufficiently to prevent

oil leaking, DO NOT overtighten.

3.7 Carefully return machine to normal working position.

3.8 Finally, tighten the breather screw, and refit the safety cover removed earlier

WARNING:

Dispose of used oil according to local authority regulations.

4. Wedge sharpening

After long periods of operation, the splitting wedge will become blunt and require sharpening.
To do this, simply remove burrs and flat spots using a fine file.

Fig. 17

Jam Clearing

Use extreme care when clearing jammed logs, to do this proceed as follows.

1. Release both control levers, the log pusher returns

to its home position.

2. Insert a wedge (triangular block of wood), under

the jammed log (see Fig. 18). activate the log

splitter in the normal way, the wedge forces

jammed log upwards and off the wedge.

It may be necessary to repeat the operation, using
larger wedges until the jammed log is completely free.

WARNING:

NEVER ask for assistance of another person when operating
this machine, this instruction applies especially with jam
clearing. Keep hands clear of jammed log and moving
parts when attempting to free jammed logs.

Fig. 18

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Trouble Shooting

Problem Probable Cause Remedy

Log fails to split. Incorrect positioning of the

log.

Reposition the log.

Log exceeds permitted
dimensions or wood is too
hard or knotty for the
capacity of the machine.

Use logs of the correct
specifications.

Wedge not cutting. Check the splitting wedge

and sharpen if necessary.

Oil Leak

Locate the leak and rectify,
if necessary, contact your
nearest Clarke dealer.

Log pusher advances
jerkily and/or vibrates
badly.

Air in hydraulic system. Check oil level. Top up if

necessary. If problem
persists, consult your
nearest Clarke dealer.

Oil leaks. Leaking from the tank. Check the bleed screw has

been unscrewed before
operating the machine.

Washer/seal on plug/
dipstick worn or damaged.

Fit replacement washer.

Worn or damaged oil seals. Fit new oil seals, consult

your nearest Clarke dealer.

PARTS & SERVICE TEL: [phone]

or e-mail as follows:

PARTS: [e-mail]

SERVICE: [e-mail]

IMPORTANT:

The use of parts other than CLARKE replacement parts may result in safety hazards,

decreased tool performance and may invalidate your warranty.

Log pusher advances
jerkily or with strong
vibrations.

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Parts Diagram

-15-

Parts List

Item Part No Description Qty

01 SD30001 Locking Hex Nut M14 2
02 SD30002 Hex Nut (thin) M14 4
03 SD30003 Piston Ram 1
04 SD30004 Spring 1
05 SD30005 ‘O’ Ring (oil seal) 1
06 SD30006 Piston 1
07 SD30007 ‘O’ Ring (seal 43.5 x 3.5) 1
08 SD30008 ‘O’ Ring (oil seal) 1
09 SD30009 Cylinder Body 1
10 SD30010 Dip Stick 1
11 SD30011 ‘O’ Ring (oil seal) 1
12 SD30012 Teflon Seal Ring 1
13 SD30013 ‘O’ Ring (seal 30 x 2.65) 1
14 SD30014 Bleed Screw M3 x 10 1
15 SD30015 Oil Cylinder End-Cover 1
16 SD30016 Double Ended Threaded Stud 4
18 SD30018 Cross Head Screw M6 x 20 2
19 SD30019 Handle 1
20 SD30020 Foot Pad (left) 1
21 SD30021 Foot Pad (right) 1
22 SD30022 Leg Assy 1
23 SD300023 Locking Nut 2
24 SD300024 Bolt M6 x 14 2
25 SD300025 Motor Pad (right) 1
26 SD300026 Motor Pad (left) 1
27 SD300027 Tensile Bolt M8 x 30 3
28 SD300028 Spring Washer Ø8 3
29 SD300029 Flat Washer Ø8 7
29a SD30029a Water-proof Cap 1
30 SD30030 Motor 1
30a SD30030a Switch Housing 1
31 SD30031 ‘O’ Ring (seal 10 x 2.65) 2
31a SD30031a Switch 1
32 SD30032 Bolt 2
33 SD30033 Nut M8 1
33a SD30033a Oil Pump Cover 1
34 SD30034 Bolt M8 x 10 2
35 SD30035 Guide 2
36 SD30036 Main Body 1

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Parts List Cont

Item Part No Description Qty

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37 SD30037 Bolt M8 x 16 2
38 SD30038 Plastic Insert 2
39 SD30039 Log Pusher Assembly 1
40 SD30040 ‘O’ Ring (seal 50 x 3.1) 1
43 SD30043 Wire Connector Assembly 1
44 SD30044 Cross Head Screw M4 x 12 2
45 SD30045 Cross Head Screw M4 x 8 1
46 SD30046 Capacitor Bracket 1
47 SD30047 Nut M8 1
48 SD30048 Locking Washer Ø8 1
49 SD30049 Capacitor 1
50 SD30050 Gasket 1
51 SD30051 Cover 1
51a SD30051a Cross Head Screw ST3.5 x 14 6
52 SD30052 Power Cable & Plug 1
53 SD30053 Cable Clamp 1
54 SD30054 Terminal Box 1
55 SD30055 Oil Cylinder Rear Cover 1
56 SD30056 Grub Screw M8 x 10 2
57 SD30057 Handle Housing (left) 1
57a SD30057a Handle Housing (right) 1
58 SD30058 Torque Spring (left) 1
58a SD30058a Torque Spring (right) 1
59 SD30059 Short Handle Shaft 2
60 SD30060 Long Handle Shaft 2
61 SD30061 Handle Knob 2
62 SD30062 Nut M10 4
63 SD30063 Copper Washer Ø10 4
63a SD30063a Wheel Cap 2
64 SD30064 Axle Circlip Ø15 2
65 SD30065 Rubber Wheel 2
66 SD30066 Wheel Bracket 1
67 SD30067 Cover 1
68 SD30068 Nut M10 4
69 SD30069 Washer Ø6 2
70 SD30070 Safety Cover 1
71 SD30071 Hex Nut M6 4

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