MTD 24BF550B029 Owner’s Manual

Safe Operation Practices • Set-Up • Operation • Maintenance • Service • Troubleshooting • Warranty

L

Log Splitter m 550 Series

MTD LLC, P.O. BOX 361131 CLEVELAND, OHiO 44136-0019

PrintedIn USA FormNo.769-04107A

(April2,2008)

ToTheOwner

ThankYou

1

Thank you for purchasing a Log Splitter manufactured by
MTD LLC. It was carefully engineered to provide excellent

performance when properly operated and maintained.
Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment.

It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate and
maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other
persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow the
recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could

result in personal injury or property damage.
All information in this manual is relative to the most recent

product information available at the time of printing. Review
this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine,

its features and operation. Please be aware that this Operator's
Manual may cover a range of product specifications for various

models. Characteristics and features discussed and/or illustrated
in this manual may not be applicable to all models. MTD LLC

reserves the right to change product specifications, designs and
equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.

Table of Contents

Safe Operation Practices ........................................ 3

Assembly & Set-Up .................................................. 7

Controls & Features ................................................ 10

Operation ................................................................ 11

If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine,
phone your local authorized MTD service dealer or contact us

directly. MTD's Customer Support telephone numbers, website
address and mailing address can be found on this page. We want
to ensure your complete satisfaction at all times.

Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the
machine are observed from the operating position

The engine manufacturer is responsible for all engine-related
issues with regards to performance, power-rating, specifications,
warranty and service. Please refer to the engine manufacturer's
Owner's/Operator's Manual, packed separately with your

machine, for more information.

Maintenance &Adjustment. ................................. 14

Service ..................................................................... 16

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

Illustrated Parts List .............................................. 20

RecordProductinformation

Before setting up and operating your new equipment, please
locate the model plate on the equipment and record the
information in the provided area to the right. You can locate
the model plate by standing at the operator's position and

looking down at the top of the reservoir tank to the right side of
the vented dipstick. This information will be necessary, should
you seek technical support via our web site, Customer Support
Department, or with a local authorized service dealer.

MODEL NUMBER

DIqFllqFllqFllqNIqD

SERIALNUMBER

DIqFIIqFIIqFIIqFIIqD

CustomerSupport

Please do NOT return the machine to the retailer or dealer without first contacting our Customer Support Department.

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of
this machine, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:

0 Visit us on the web at www.mtdproducts.com

0 Call a Customer Support Representative at [phone] or [phone]
0 Write us at MTD LLC • RO. Box 361131 • Cleveland, OH • 44136-0019

ImportantSafeOperationPractices

WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed,

could endanger the personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow
all instructions in this manual before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply

with these instructions may result in personal injury.
When you see this symbol. HEED ITS WARNING!

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65

WARNING: Engine Exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle components

contain or emit chemicals known to State of California to cause cancer and birth defects
or other reproductive harm.

DANGER: This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in

this manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the

operator can result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet
and throwing debris. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in

serious injury or death.

2

Training 9.

1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for
future and regular reference and for ordering replacement
parts.

2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation.
Know how to stop the machine and disengage them

quickly.

3. Never allow children under 16 years of age to operate this
machine. Children 16 and over should read and understand

the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual
and on the machine and be trained and supervised by an

adult.

4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper
instruction.

5.

Many accidents occur when more than one person
operates the machine. Ira helper is assisting in stacking

logs, never activate the control until the helper is a
minimum of 10 feet from the machine.

6. Keep bystanders, pets, and children at least 20 feet from
the machine while it is in operation.

7. Never allow anyone to ride on this machine.

8. Never transport cargo on this machine.

10.

11. If injured by escaping fluid, see a doctor immediately.

12. Keep the operator zone and adjacent area clear for safe,

13. If your machine is equipped with an internal combustion

Hydraulic log splitters develop high fluid pressures during
operation. Fluid escaping through a pin hole opening can
penetrate your skin and cause blood poisoning, gangrene,

or death. Give attention to the following instructions at all
times:

a. Do not check for leaks with your hand.
b. Do not operate machine with frayed, kinked,

cracked, or damaged hoses, fittings, or tubing.

c. Stop the engine and relieve hydraulic system

pressure before changing or adjusting fittings,
hoses, tubing, or other system components.

d. Do not adjust the pressure settings of the pump or

va Ive.

Leaks can be detected by passing cardboard or wood,
while wearing protective gloves and safety glasses, over

the suspected area. Look for discoloration of cardboard or
wood.

Serious infection or reaction can develop if proper medical
treatment is not administered immediately.

secure footing.

engine and is intended for use near any unimproved forest,
brush, or grass covered land, the engine exhaust should be

equipped with a spark arrester. Make sure you comply with
applicable local, state, and federal codes. Take appropriate
firefighting equipment with you.

14. Thismachineshouldbeusedforsplittingwoodonly,do
notuseitforanyotherpurpose.

15. Followtheinstructionsinthemanual(s)providedwithany
attachment(s)forthismachine.

Preparation

1. Always wear safety shoes or heavy boots.

2. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles when
operating this machine.

3. Never wear jewelry or loose clothing that might become
entangled in moving or rotating parts of the machine.

4. Make sure machine is on a level surface before operating.

5. Always block wheels to prevent unintended movement,
and lock beam in either the horizontal or vertical position.

6. Always operate this machine from the operator zone(s)
specified in the manual.

7. Logs should be cut with square ends prior to splitting.

8. Use log splitter in daylight or under good artificial light.

SafeHandling ofGasoline

To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme care
in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive. Serious personal injury can occur when
gasoline is spilled on yourself or your clothes which can ignite.

Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

a. Use only an approved gasoline container.
b. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other

sources of ignition.

c. Never fuel machine indoors.
d. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is

hot or running.

e. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes before

refueling.

fl Never overfill the fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than

1/2 inch below bottom of filler neck to provide space

for fuel expansion.
g. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.
h. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and

equipment and move machine to another area. Wait

five (5) minutes before starting the engine.
i. Never store the machine or fuel container inside

where there is an open flame, spark or pilot light

as on a water heater, space heater, furnace, clothes

dryer or other gas appliances.

j. Allow machine to cool at least five (5) minutes

before storing.

Operation

1. Before starting this machine, review the "Safety
Instructions". Failure to follow these rules may result in

serious injury to the operator or bystanders.

2. Never leave this machine unattended with the engine
running.

3. Do not operate machine while under the influence of
alcohol, drugs, or medication.

4. Never allow anyone to operate this machine without
proper instruction.

5. Always operate this machine with all safety equipment
in place and working. Make sure all controls are properly
adjusted for safe operation.

6. Operator Zone

a. Horizontal Operating Position: Stand on the control

lever side of the log splitter in front of the wheel as
shown in Fig. 2-1.

b. Vertical Operating Position: Stand in front of the

beam and log as shown in Fig. 2-1.

F

Horizontal

Vertical

Figure 2-1

7. When loading a log, always place your hands on the sides
of the log, not on the ends, and never use your foot to
help stabilize a log. Failure to do so, may result in crushed

or amputated fingers, toes, hand, or foot.

8. Use only your hand to operate the controls.

9. Never attempt to split more than one log at a time unless
the ram has fully extended and a second log is needed to

complete the separation of the first log.

10. For logs which are not cut square, the least square end
and the longest portion of the log should be placed
toward the beam and wedge, and the square end placed
toward the end plate.

11. When splitting in the vertical position, stabilize the log
before moving the control. Split as follows:

a. Place log on the end plate and turn until it leans

against the beam and is stable.

b. When splitting extra large or uneven logs, the log

must be stabilized with wooden shims or split
wood between the log and end plate or ground.

12. Always keep fingers away from any cracks that open in
the log while splitting. They can quickly close and pinch
or amputate your fingers.

4 J SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

13. Keep your work area clean. Immediately remove split wood
around the machine so you do not stumble over it.

14. Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe

operating speed of the engine.

15. Never move this machine while the engine is running.

16. This machine should not be towed on any street, highway
or public road without checking the existing federal,
state, or local vehicle requirements. Any licensing or

modifications such as taillights, etc., needed to comply, is
the sole responsibility of the purchaser. Ira "Statement of
Origin" is required in your state, see your local dealer.

17. Do not tow machine over 45 mph.

18. See Transporting the Log Splitter section in this manual for
proper towing instructions once all federal, local, or state
requirements are met.

MaintenanceandStorage

1.

Stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug and ground
it against the engine before cleaning, or inspecting the
machine.

2. Stop the engine and relieve hydraulic system pressure
before repairing or adjusting fittings, hoses, tubing, or
other system components.

3. To prevent fires, clean debris and chaff from the engine
and muffler areas. If the engine is equipped with a spark
attester muffler, clean and inspect it regularly according to
manufacturers instructions. Replace if damaged.

4. Periodically check that all nuts and bolts, hose clamps, and
hydraulic fittings are tight to be sure equipment is in safe

working condition.

5. Check all safety guards and shields to be sure they are in
the proper position. Never operate with safety guards,
shields, or other protective features removed.

6. The pressure relief valve is preset at the factory. Do not
adjust the valve.

7. Never attempt to move this machine over hilly or uneven
terrain without a tow vehicle or adequate help.

8. For your safety, replace all damaged or worn parts
immediately with original equipment manufacturer's

(O.E.M.) parts only. "Use of parts which do not meet the
original equipment specifications may lead to improper
performance and compromise safety!"

9. Do not alter this machine in any manner, alterations such
as attaching a rope or extension to the control handle, or

adding to the width or height of the wedge may result in
personal injury.

10. According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission
(CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
this product has an Average UsefulLife of seven (7) years,

or 130 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful
Life have the machine inspected annually by an authorized
service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety
systems are working properly and not worn excessively.
Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.

SparkArrestor

_k ARNING: This machine is equipped with an

effective working order by the operator. In the State of California
the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California
Public Resources Code). Other states may have similar laws.
Federal laws apply on federal lands.
A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your

nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service
department, RO. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.

internal combustion engine and should not be used
on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush

covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's

exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester

meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).
If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in

SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES S

Safety Symbols

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the
machine before attempting to assemble and operate.

READ THE OPERATOR'S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to

assemble and operate

WARNING-- CRUSHING HAZARD

Keep hands away from wedge, end plate, partly split wood and moving parts.

BYSTANDARDS
Keep bystanders, helpers and children at least 10 feet away.

SINGLE OPERATOR
Only one person should operate the machine at a time. The adult who loads and holds log

must be the one who operates control handle.

WARNING-- PRESSURIZED FLUID

Never check for hose leaks with your hands. High pressure fluid can escape through a pin hole
leak and cause serious injury by puncturing the skin and causing blood poisoning.

EYEPROTECTION

Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles when operating this machine.

WARNING-- MOVING WEDGE

Keep hands away from wedge and moving parts.

WARNING: Your Responsibility--Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and
follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.

6 I SECTION 2 -- IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

SAVETHESEINSTRUCTIONS!

Assembly&Set-Up

Contents of Carton

3

One Log Splitter
One Tongue Assembly

this machine. Some components are very heavy and

l_ll WARNING! Use extreme caution when unpacking

NOTE:All references in this manual to the left or right side of the
log splitter are from the operating position only. Exceptions, if

any, will be specified.

will require additional people or mechanical

handling equipment.

One Operator's Manual One Engine Operator's Manual

Assembly

Attaching the JackStand

The jack stand is shipped in the transport position.

1. Remove the spring clip and clevis pin and then pivot the

jack stand towards the ground into the operating position.

2. Secure the jack stand in position with the clevis pin and
spring clip. See Fig. 3-1.

Attachingthe Tongue

1. With the log splitter still standing upright, remove the two
hex bolts and hex nuts from the tank bracket. See Fig. 3-2.

(_ Tongue He× Nuts "_

Tank Bracket .......

!

Clevis Pin

Figure 3-1

Figure 3-2

2.

Align the holes in the tongue with the holes in the tank
bracket and secure with the hardware just removed. See

Fig. 3-2.
NOTE:The high pressure hose, which runs from the gear

pump the bottom of the control valve, must be above the
tongue assembly. See Section 9 (Illustrated Parts List) if you
are unsure of which hose is the high pressure hose.

J

ConnectingCylinderto Beam

The log splitter is shipped with the beam in the vertical position.
I. Pull out the vertical beam lock, rotate it back and pivot the

beam to the horizontal position until it locks. See Fig. 3-3.

Vertical Beam Lock'

Figure 3-3

2. Disconnect the dislodger from the beam weld bracket by
removing the six hex washer head screws. See Fig. 3-4.

3. Disconnect the log cradle from the beam on the side of the
control valve. See Fig. 3-5.

f

Screws Log CradJ

Figure 3-5

4. Lift and slide the cylinder up to the top of beam and into
the weld brackets. See Fig. 3-6.

f

rlinder

He× Screws

Figure 3-4

...........

Weld

Figure 3-6

5.

Attach the dislodger over the wedge assembly and secure
it with the previously removed hardware to the weld
brackets.

NOTE:Once the six hex screws are tightened, there may be
a slight gap between the dislodger and the weld brackets.

This gap is normal.

6. Reattach the log cradle to the side of the beam with the
control valve, aligning the ends of the cradle with the beam
flanges.

7. Roll the log splitter off the bottom of the crate.

8 I SECTION2-- ASSEMBLY& SET-UP

Set-Up

6asand 0il Fill-Up

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the engine manual packed with your log splitter. Read the
instructions carefully.

_i ARNING! Use extreme care when handling

NOTE: Your log splitter is shipped with motor oil in the engine.
You MUST check the oil level before operating. Be careful not

to overfill. Gasoline can be added to the engine when the log
splitter is in either the horizontal or vertical position. However,
there are less obstructions when the splitter is in the vertical
position.

Preparing the LogSplitter

1. Lubricate the beam area (where the splitting wedge will

2. Remove the vented reservoir dipstick, which is located in

gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the

vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine

indoors or while the engine is hot or running.

slide) with engine oil. Do not use grease.

front of the engine on top of the reservoir tank. See Fig. 3-7.

4.

Check the fluid level using the dipstick. See Fig. 3-7. Do not
overfill.

5.

Replace the vented dipstick securely, tightening it until the
top of the threads are flush with top of the pipe.

6.

Disconnect the spark plug and prime the pump by pulling
the recoil starter as far as it will go. Repeat approximately

10 times.

7. Reconnect the spark plug wire and start the engine
following the instructions in the Operation Section.

8. Use the control handle to engage the wedge to the farthest
extended position. Then retract the wedge.

9. Refill the tank as specified on the dipstick.
NOTE: Failure to refill the tank will void the splitter's

wa rra nty.

10. Extend and retract the wedge 12 complete cycles to
remove any trapped air in the system (the system is "self-
bleeding").

11. Refill the reservoir within the range marked on the dipstick.
NOTE: Some fluid may overflow from the vent plug as

the system builds heat and the fluid expands and seeks a
balanced level.

TirePressure

The max recommended operating pressure is 30 psi. Under any
circumstances do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended

psi. Maintain equal pressure on all tires.

Figure 3-7

NOTE:The log splitter has been shipped and primed with
hydraulic fluid in the reservoir tank. However, you MUST

check the fluid level before operating. If not completely
filled, proceed with the following steps:

3.

Fill the reservoir tank with one of the following approved
hydraulic fluids; Dexron ®III / Mercon ®automatic
transmission fluid, Pro-Mix TM AW-32 Hydraulic Oil or a 10
Weight AW hydraulic oil.

WARNING! Much of the original fluid has been

drawn into the cylinder and hoses. Make certain to
refill the reservoir to prevent damage to the
hydraulic pump.

Reservoir

Tank

_ ARNING! Excessive pressure when seating beads

may cause the tire/rim assembly to burst with force
sufficient to cause serious injury.

SECTION 2 -- ASSEMBLY& SET-UP 9

ControlsandFeatures

Tongue

4

g Dislodger

EngineControls

See the Engine Operator's Manual for the location and function
of the controls on the engine.

BeamLocks

These two locks are used to secure the beam in the horizontal
or the vertical position. The vertical beam lock is located on the

tanks bracket. The horizontal beam lock is located on the beam
support latch bracket.

Control Handle

The control handle has three positions; Forward, Neutral and
Reverse. See the Operation Section for instructions.

Log

Vertical

Beam

Lock

Figure 4=1

Cradle

LogDislodger

The log dislodger is designed to remove any partially split wood
from the wedge. This may occur while splitting large diameter
wood or freshly cut wood.

Control Handle

The Control Handle is used to move the wedge up and down to
split wood.

Wedge

The wedge is used to split the wood.

Tongue

The tongue is used to attach to a towing vehicle for
transportation.

Operation

Starting the Engine

WARNING! Read, understand and follow all

instructions and warnings on the machine and in

this manual before operating.

WARNING! Wear leather work gloves, safety shoes,
and safety glasses when operating a log splitter.

Ensure safe footing.

BeforeEachUse

1. With the spark plug wire disconnected, remove the dipstick
and check the hydraulic fluid level. Refill if necessary.
Approved fluids include Dexron ®III/Mercon ®automatic
transmission fluid, Pro-Mix TM AW-32 Hydraulic Oil or a 10
Weight AW hydraulic oil.

2. Check the engine oil level. Refill if necessary.

3. Fill up the gasoline if necessary.

4. Lubricate the front, sides, and back of the beam face and
where the splitting wedge will slide with engine oil. Do not
use grease. Make sure to lubricate both the front and the

back of the beam face.

5. Attach the spark plug wire to the spark plug.

Starting Engine

1. Attach the spark plug wire to the spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire is fastened
securely over the metal tip of the spark plug.

2. Turn the fuel valve to the ON position.

3. Move the choke lever to the CHOKE position.

4. Grasp the starter handle and pull the rope out slowly until
the engine reaches the start of its compression cycle (the

rope will pull slightly harder at this point).

5. Pull the rope with a rapid, full arm stroke. Keep a firm grip
on the starter handle. Let the rope rewind slowly. Repeat

until the engine cranks.

6.

After the engine starts, move the choke lever to the OFF
position. Place the throttle lever to the speed desired.

7.

In cold weather, run the wedge up or down the beam 6to 8
times to circulate the hydraulic fluid.

WARNING! When starting a warm engine, the

muffler and surrounding areas are hot and can
cause a burn. Do not touch.

Stopping the Engine

1. Move the choke lever to the OFF position.

2. Turn the fuel valve to the OFF position.

Usingthe LogSplitter

1. Place the log splitter on dry, level ground and shut off the
engine.

2. Place the beam in either the horizontal or vertical position
and lock it into place with the appropriate locking rod.

NOTE:Take extra care when raising and lowering the beam
as it is fairly heavy. Be sure to keep hands away from any
possible pinch points.

3. To place the beam in the Vertical Position proceed as
follows:

a. Pull the horizontal beam lock out to release the

beam and pivot the beam to the vertical position.

b. To lock the beam in the vertical position, pull out

on the vertical beam lock and rotate it to secure the
beam. See Fig. 5-1.

f

Vertical Beam Lock

Figure S-1

11

c. Stand in front of the log splitter to operate the

control handle and to stabilize the log. See Fig. 5-2.

c. Stand behind the reservoir tank to operate the

control handle and to stabilize the log. See Fig. 5-4.

Figure 5-2

4. To place the beam into the horizontal position proceed as
follows:

Pull the vertical beam lock out and rotate it down.

a.

Pivot the beam to the horizontal position.

b.

The horizontal beam lock is self-locking. The spring

loaded lock will snap into place when the beam is
lowered into position. See Fig. 5-3.

Figure 5-3

Figure 5-4

4.

Block the front and back of both wheels.

5.

Place the log against the end plate and split the wood only
in the direction of the grain.

6. To stabilize the log, place your hand on the sides of the log
only.

_ ARNING! Never place a hand on the end

between the log and the splitting wedge.

7. Only one adult should stabilize the log and operate the
control handle, so the operator has full control over the log
and the splitting wedge.

8. Move the control handle FORWARD or DOWN to split the
wood.

9. Release the control handle to stop the wedge movement.

10. Move the control handle BACK or UP to return the wedge.

11. To remove partially split wood from the wedge, move the
control handle to the REVERSEposition until the wedge is
fully retracted to allow split wood portion to contact the

log dislodger.

_ ARNING! Never remove partially split wood from

the wedge with your hands. Fingers may become
trapped between the split wood.

12. Once removed from the wedge with the log dislodger,
split the wood from the opposite end or in another
location.

12 I SECTION 5-- OPERATION

Transportingthe LogSplitter

NOTE:Always turn the fuel valve to the OFF position before
transporting the log splitter.

1. Lower the beam to its horizontal position. Make certain the
beam is locked securely with the horizontal beam lock.

2. Remove the spring clip and clevis pin from the jack stand.

3. Support the tongue and pivot the jack stand up against the
tongue. See Fig. 5-5.

Figure 5=5

4. Secure with the spring clip and clevis pin previously
removed. See Fig. 5-5.

5. Attach the coupler hitch to a class or higher 2" ball on the
towing vehicle; latch securely.

a. If the coupler hitch does not fit on the ball, turn the

adjustment nut one turn counter-clockwise.

b. If the coupler hitch is too loose on the ball, turn the

adjustment nut one turn clockwise. Then recheck
and adjust accordingly.

6. Connect the safety chains to the towing vehicle.

check the local, state and federal requirements

WARNING! Do not tow faster than 45mph and

before towing on any public road.

NOTE: Use caution when backing up, using a spotter outside the
vehicle is recommended.

OperatingTips

Always:

1. Use clean fluid and check the fluid level regularly.

2. Usean approved hydraulic fluid. Approved fluids include
Dexron ®III/ Mercon®automatic transmission fluid, Pro-

MixTM AW-32 Hydraulic Oil or a 10Weight AW hydraulic oil.

3. Usea filter (clean or replace regularly).

4. Usea breather cap on the fluid reservoir.

5. Make sure the pump is mounted and aligned properly.

6. Usea flexible "spider" type coupling between the engine
and pump drive shafts.

7. Keep the hoses clear and unblocked.

8. Bleed the air out of the hoses before operating.

9. Flush and clean the hydraulic system before restarting after
servicing.

10. Use"pipe dope" on all hydraulic fittings.

11. Allow time for the engine to warm-up before splitting the
wood.

12. Prime the pump before the initial start-up by turning over
the engine with the spark plug disconnected (if not already
done at the factory).

13. Split the wood along the grain (lengthwise) only.

Never:

1. Usewhen the fluid isbelow 20 °For above 150° F.

2. Usea solid engine/pump coupling.

3. Operate through the relief valve for long.

4. Attempt to adjust the unloading or relief valve settings
without pressure gauges.

5. Operate with air in the hydraulic system.

6. Useteflon tape on the hydraulic fittings.

7. Attempt to cut wood acrossthe grain.

8. Attempt to remove partially split wood from the wedge
with your hands. Fully retract the wedge to dislodge the

wood with the log dislodger.

SECTION S -- OPERATION 13

Maintenance&Adjustments

6

WARNING! Do not make any adjustments without

first stopping the engine, disconnecting the spark

plug wire and grounding it against the engine.
Always wear safety glasses during operation or
while performing any adjustments or repairs.

Maintenance

Engine

Refer to the Engine Operator's Manual packed with your log
splitter for all engine maintenance.

TirePressure

The max recommended operating pressure is 30 psi. Do
not, under any circumstances, exceed the manufacturer's
recommended psi. Maintain equal pressure on all tires.

WARNING! Excessive pressure when seating beads

may cause the tire/rim assembly to burst with force

sufficient to cause serious injury. Refer to the

sidewall of the tire for the recommended pressure.

HydraulicFluid

Check the hydraulic fluid level in the log splitter reservoir
tank before each use. Maintain the fluid level within the range
specified on the dipstick at all times.

Change the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir every 100 hours of
operation. Follow the steps below:

1. Disconnect the suction hose from the bottom of the
reservoir tank.

2. Carefully unthread the inlet filter and clean it with
penetrating oil. See Fig. 6-1.

3. Allow the fluid to drain into a suitable container.

4. Reinsert the filter and refill the reservoir with three (3)

gallons of oil. Approved fluids include Dexron ®III/Mercon ®
automatic transmission fluid or a 10 Weight AW hydraulic

oil.

Maintain the fluid level within the range specified on the dipstick
at all times. When checking the fluid, always make sure to tighten

the dipstick until the top of the threads are flush with the top of
the pipe.

NOTE:Always dispose of any used hydraulic fluid and
engine oil at approved recycling centers only.

Contaminants in the fluid may damage the hydraulic
components. Flushing the reservoir tank and hoses with
kerosene whenever service is performed on the tank, hydraulic

pump or valve is recommended. Contact an authorized service
dealer.

HydraulicFilter

Change the hydraulic filter every 50 hours of operation. Use only
a 10 micron hydraulic filter. Order part number 723-0405.

Beamand Splitting Wedge

Lubricate top, sides and bottom of the beam and where it
comes into contact with the splitting wedge with engine

oil before each use.
Make certain to readjust the adjustment bolts so that the

wedge moves freely, but no excess space exists between
the wedge plate and the beam.

HoseClamps

Check the hose clamps on the suction hose (attached to
the side of the pump) to ensure they are tight before each
use. Check the hose clamps on the return hose at least

once a season.

Suction Hose

Figure 6-1

/

Inlet Filter

Adjustments

Raisingand Loweringthe Beam

Use the control handle to run the wedge up and down the beam
6 to 8 times to circulate the hydraulic fluid, which will warm and

thin the fluid. Place the log splitter on a firm, level surface.
To raise the beam for vertical operation:
I. Pull out the horizontal beam lock on the tongue.

2. Pivot beam lock down to release the beam.

3. Move the beam to the vertical position. Secure it with the
beam lock on the reservoir tank assembly.

WARNING! Always use the log splitter in the
vertical position when splitting heavy logs.