Clarke LOGBUSTER 6 Operation & Maintenance Instructions Manual

LOG SPLITTER

MODEL NO: LOGBUSTER 6

PART NO: 3402035

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE

INSTRUCTIONS

10/08

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing this CLARKE product.

Before attempting to use this product, 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 your purchase
giving you long and satisfactory service.

GUARANTEE

This product is guaranteed against faulty manufacture for a period of 12
months from the date of purchase. Please keep your receipt which will be
required 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.

IN THE BOX

A Log splitter frame

B Control arms

C Support table

D User guide

2

CONTENTS

Introduction ................................................................................2

Guarantee .................................................................................. 2

In the box .................................................................................... 2

Contents...................................................................................... 3

General safety rules .................................................................. 4

Additional safety rules for log splitters ..................................... 5

Safety symbols............................................................................ 7

Electrical connections............................................................... 8

Identification of parts ................................................................ 9

Assembly ..................................................................................... 10

Operation ...................................................................................12

Maintenance.............................................................................. 16

Troubleshooting.......................................................................... 17

Disposal .......................................................................................17

Specifications .............................................................................18

Parts and servicing..................................................................... 18

Declaration of conformity......................................................... 19

3

GENERAL SAFETY RULES

WARNING: READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS. FAILURE TO FOLLOW ALL
INSTRUCTIONS LISTED BELOW MAY RESULT IN ELECTRIC SHOCK, FIRE AND/
OR SERIOUS INJURY. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

WORK AREA

1. Keep the work area clean and well lit. Cluttered and dark areas invite accidents.

2. Do not operate log splitters in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust. Log splitters create sparks which may ignite the dust or
fumes.

3. Keep children and bystanders away while operating the log splitter. Distractions can
cause you to lose control.

4. The surface must be perfectly level to prevent the machine from moving during operation.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

1. The log splitters plug must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way.
Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.

2. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators, ranges
and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or
grounded.

3. Do not expose log splitters to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a log splitters will
increase the risk of electric shock.

4. Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the log
splitter. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or
entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.

5. When operating the log splitter outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.

6. Do not leave the log splitter unattended when plugged in to the mains supply.

PERSONAL SAFETY

1. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a log
splittter. Do not use the log splitter while you are tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating log splitters may result in

serious personal injury.

2. Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. Safety equipment such as non-skid
safety shoes, close fitting clothing and suitable work gloves should always be used.

3. Avoid accidental starting. Ensure the switch is in the off position before plugging in.

4. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better
control of the log splitters in unexpected situations.

5. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and
gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in
moving parts.

4

USAGE AND CARE

1. Do not force the log splitter. It will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was
designed.

2. Disconnect the plug from the power source before making any adjustments, changing
accessories, or storing the log splitter. Such preventive safety measures reduce the risk of
starting the log splitter accidentally.

3. Storethe log splitter out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar with
log splitters or these instructions to operate the log splitter. Log splitters are dangerous in
the hands of untrained users.

4. Maintain the log splitter. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of

parts and any other condition that may affect the log splitters operation. If damaged,
have the log splitter repaired before use. Many accidents are caused by poorly

maintained power tools.

5. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting
edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.

SERVICE

1. Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.

ADDITIONAL SAFETY RULES FOR LOG SPLITTERS

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

1. Never tamper with the log splitter or attempt to operate the machine without covers. 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.

2. The operator must operate the machines’ controls with both hands without using other
makeshift systems, i.e. wedging control levers down etc.

3. The machine must only be used by one operator. The machine must be used by adults
only.

4. Check that the logs being 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.

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

6. Split wood in the direction of the grain. Do not attempt to split a piece of wood across the
grain as this could damage the machine.

7. Do not attempt to load the log in to the machine whilst the log splitter is in motion.

8. Keep your hands well away from any splits and cracks which open in the log.

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

10. Never use the machine whilst under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medicines, or when
you are tired. A clear mind is essential for safety.

11. Always disconnect the power cable when not in use, when carrying out maintenance
work or when moving the machine.

ou.

5

12. Never use the log splitter if it is damaged or if it needs servicing.

320mm

1050mm

13. Before starting work, check correct functioning of all the safety devices and check for
soundness of welded joints, securing nuts & bolts.

SIZE OF THE LOGS BEING SPLIT

The image on the right shows the maximum log size that can
be split.

• Do not attempt to split a log for longer than 5 seconds

as the pump may be damaged by the oil
overheating. This could occur when the wood being
split is excessively fibrous, knotty or wet, green wood.

NOTE: A small log can be difficult to split if it has knots or a particularly tough fibre.

• It is better to stop and rotate the log by 90O, to see whether it can be split along a

different plane.

• Not being able to split the log within 5 seconds, indicates that its hardness

exceeds the capacity of the machine and it should therefore be discarded so as
not to cause damage/injury.

6

SAFETY SYMBOLS

7

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

Connect the mains lead to a standard, 230 Volt (50Hz) electrical supply through an
approved 13 amp BS 1363 plug, or a suitably fused isolator switch.

WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED

IMPORTANT: The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following
code:

Green & Yellow - Earth

Blue - Neutral

Brown - Live

As the colours of the flexible lead of this appliance may not correspond with the
coloured markings identifying terminals in your plug proceed as follows:

• Connect GREEN & YELLOW cord to terminal marked with a letter “E” or Earth

symbol “ ” or coloured GREEN or GREEN & YELLOW.

• Connect BROWN cord to terminal marked with a letter “L” or coloured RED.

• Connect BLUE cord to terminal marked with a letter “N” or coloured BLACK.

If this appliance is fitted with a plug which is moulded onto the electric cable (i.e. non­rewireable) please note:

1. The plug must be thrown away if it is cut fr
electric shock if it is subsequently inserted into a socket outlet.

2. Never use the plug without the fuse cover fit

3. When replacing a detachable fuse carrier,
(as indicated by marking or colour code).

4. Replacement fuse covers can be obtained from y
stockists.

om the electric cable. There is a danger of

ted.

ensure the correct replacement is used

our local dealer or most electrical

FUSE RATING

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

We strongly recommend that this machine is connected to the mains supply via a
Residual Current Device (RCD)

If in any doubt, consult a qualified electrician. DO NOT attempt any repairs yourself.

8

IDENTIFICATION OF PARTS

No Description Part number No Description Part number

1 Ram travel adjusting

rod

2 Transport handle LGLOGB602 11 Wheels LGLOGB611

3 Split wedge LGLOGB603 12 Base LGLOGB612

4 Control levers

nnection bracket

co

5 Top motor shield LGLOGB605 14 Side bracket for

6 Plug & switch LGLOGB606 15 Table loc k down h ook LGLOGB615

7 Ram LGLOGB607 16 Control lever guard LGLOGB616

8 Motor LGLOGB608 17 Log holder LGLOGB617

9 Base cover LGLOGB609 18 Control lever LGLOGB618

LGLOGB601 10 Oil tank cover / air

eder

ble

LGLOGB604 13 Star knob LGLOGB613

su

pport table

LGLOGB610

LGLOGB614

9

ASSEMBLY

FITTING THE CONTROL ARMS

1. Position the control lever into the
side of the arm assembly as
shown.

• Make sure the control lever

goes in
assembly.

2. Lock the arm assembly in to
position with the bolt, large
wa
supplied.

3. Follow the same steps to install the
othe

FITTING THE WHEELS

1. Slide one of the wheels onto the
axle followed by a washer.

2. Slide the axle through the holes on
the fram

to the slot on the arm

sher, small washer and nut

r arm assembly.

e as shown on the right.

3. Slide on a second washer and
then the second wheel onto the
axle.

• Make sure the wheel is on, the

right way round (the notch
indicated should be facing
outwards).

4. Add a final washer and secure
using the split pin provided.

10

FITTING THE SUPPORT TABLE

There are 3 positions available for the support table to accomodate different
log lengths.

1. Insert the support table arms into
both side brackets.

2. Insert the star knob to lock the
support table into position.

• The star knob can be fitted on

ei

ther side of the bracket.

MOVING THE LOG SPLITTER

CAUTION: BEFORE MOVING THE LOG SPLITTER, MAKE SURE THE OIL TANK
COVER / AIR BLEEDER IS FULLY TIGHTENED TO AVOID OIL LEAKAGE.

To move the log splitter to the work
site.

1. Make sure the oil tank cover / air
bleeder is fully tightened.

2. Grasp handle (A) and tilt the log
splitter

towards you slightly.

Never try to lift the log splitter by
handle (A).

11

OPERATION

PREPARATION

• Plan your work before hand. Have your logs positioned where they

can be easily reached.

• Route the cord from the power source to the splitter in a way that

safeguards against tripping on the cord, or the cord becoming
damaged during the work session. Protect the power cord from
impact, tugging or contact with corrosive materials.

LOGS

• When cutting up limbs and large sections, do not cut sections any

longer than 1050 mm.

• Do not attempt to split green logs. Dry, seasoned logs split much

more easily, and will not jam as frequently as green wood.

• Make sure the logs do not twist, rock or slip while being split.

• Break log in the direction of its growing grain.

• Do not attempt to split 2 logs at the same time. One of them may fly

up and hit you.

BLEED THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM

Before operating the log splitter, the
oil tank cover / air bleeder should be
loosened by 2-3 turns until air can go
in and out of the oil tank smoothly.

• Air flow through the oil tank

cover / air bleeder hole should
be detectable when the log
splitter is in operation.

Before moving the log splitter, make
sure the oil tank cover / air bleeder is
tightened to avoid oil leakage.

WARNING: FAILURE TO DO THIS WILL CAUSE PERMANENT DAMAGE TO THE
LOG SPLITTER.

12

INSERT THE MAINS LEAD

1. Insert the adapter plug into the
socket shown on the right.

2. Insert the mains plug into the
mains power supply and switch
on.

TURNING THE LOG SPLITTER ON/OFF

While operating under extremely low temperature, turn on the log splitter on
15 minutes before use to preheat the hydraulic oil.

1. Lift up the flap on the switch
housing to access the on/off
buttons.

2. Press the ON button ( I ) to turn the
logbust

3. Press the OFF button ( 0 ) to turn
the logbuster off.

4. In an emergency, press the red
button on the outside
switch housing.

er on.

of the

CHECK THE SAFE OPERATION OF THE LOG SPLITTER

1. Lower both control levers.

• Splitting wedge will begin to lower.

2. Release either of the levers.

• Splitting wedge should remain

3. Release both levers.

• The ram should rise to

its original posit

in position.

ion.

13

SPLITTING A LOG

This log splitter is designed to be operated by one person only and requires

two handed operation by the user -

CAUTION: SPLIT LOGS IN THE DIRECTION OF THE GRAIN. DO NOT PLACE
LOGS ACROSS THE LOG SPLITTER FOR SPLITTING. IT MAY BE DANGEROUS
AND MAY SERIOUSLY DAMAGE THE MACHINE.

1. Place the log onto the support table vertically making sure that it is sitting
flat on the support table.

• Ensure the wedge will come into contact with the log squarely on

the end. Never attempt to split a log at an angle.

2. Grip the log securely using the control arms.

3. Press down on both levers to start
the split

• Releasing either lever stops the

splitting wedge.

• Releasing both levers will return

the splitting wedge to its original
position.

NOTE: Once you start splitting the

action.

ting

log, do not reach into the
machine.

WARNING: NEVER TRY TO SPLIT WOOD FOR MORE THAN 5 SECONDS, IF
THE MACHINE CANNOT DO IT WITHIN THIS TIME, THE OIL WILL BEGIN TO
OVERHEAT AND THE MACHINE MAY BE DAMAGED.

4. Stack split logs as you work. This will provide a safer work area,
uncluttered.

14

by keeping it

ADJUSTMENTS

Ram Travel
Adjusting Rod

Locking Screw

TO SET WEDGE RAM STROKE

Adjusting the ram stroke will set the height which the ram will return to, when
you release the control levers.

1. Press down on both control levers until the splitting w
height.

• The upper position of the ram wedge should be about 3-5 cm

above the logs being split.

2. Release one control lever and then switch off the motor.

• The ram will remain in its current position.

3.

Release the locking screw.

4. Raise ram travel adjusting rod until
it is

stopped by the spring inside.

5. Tighten the locking screw.

6. Switch on motor.

edge is at the desired

STORAGE

When you have finish working with your log splitter:

1. Disconnect the log splitter from the mains supply.

2. Tighten the oil tank cover / air bleeder.

3. Clean the unit down using a dry cloth.

15

MAINTENANCE

WARNING: MAKE SURE THAT THE LOG SPLITTER IS SWITCHED OFF AND
DISCONNECTED FROM THE MAINS SUPPLY BEFORE STARTING ANY
CLEANING OR MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES.

HYDRAULIC OIL

The hydraulic system is a closed system with an oil tank, oil pump and control
valve.

• Check the oil level regularly using the dipstick attached to the oil

tank cover / air bleeder.

TO TOP UP THE HYDRAULIC OIL

Remove the oil tank cover / air

1.
bleeder completely.

2. Using a clean funnel, pour in
CLARKE hydraulic
level is 2-3 cm from the top of the
oil tank.

oil until the oil

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

Part No: 1Ltr - 3050830

5Ltr - 3050835

3. Clean the neck of the oil tank and replace the oil tank cover / air bleeder.

4. Run the log splitter 2-3 times (without splitting

NOTE: The oil should be completely changed once a year.

anything) after adding oil.

SHARPENING THE WEDGE

Sharpen the wedge of the log splitter using a fine-toothed file and smooth any
burrs or crushed area along the cutting edge.

16

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY

Motor does not start. No power being supplied Check mains fuse

Extension lead is defective Unplug, check and replace if

c

essary

ne

Switch is defective Return the unit to your local

l

arke dealer for servicing.

C

Log splitter does not
work while
motor is running.

Log splitter works but
with abnor
and vibration.

the

m

al noise

DISPOSAL

When disposing of this product, do not dispose of with general waste.
It must be disposed of according to the laws governing Waste
Electrical and Electronic equipment, at a recognised disposal facility.

Air bleeder is not open Open oil bleeder.

Control levers are bent Repair the bent control

Low oil level Check and refill hydraulic oil.

Low oil level Check and refill hydraulic oil.

leve

rs

17

SPECIFICATIONS

For Parts & Servicing, please contact your nearest dealer, or

CLARKE International, on one of the following numbers

PARTS & SERVICE TEL: [phone]

PARTS & SERVICE FAX: [phone]

or e-mail as follows:

PARTS: [e-mail]

SERVICE: [e-mail]

Logbuster 6

Electrical Supply 230V @ 50Hz

Input Wattage 3000 W

Part Number

Maximum Force 5.5 tonnes

IP Rating IP54

Duty Cycle S6 40% (4 mins on / 6 mins off)

Weight 97 kg

Dimensions (L x W x H) 880 x 400 x 1050 mm

A-weighted Sound Pressure Level dB (A) 71 dB (A)

Log Capacity

Maximum Length 1050 mm

Minimum Length 550 mm

Maximum Diameter 320 mm

3402035

PARTS AND SERVICING

18

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

19