
READ and UNDERSTAND this manual completely before using log splitter.
All operators of this equipment must read and completely understand all safety information, operating instructions, maintenance
and storage instructions. Failure to properly operate and maintain the log splitter could result in serious injury to the operator and
bystanders from moving parts that can crush or cut, flying objects, burns, fire or explosion, escaping high pressure hydraulic fluid,
or carbon monoxide poisoning in particular, be aware of the following hazards.
Crush and Cut Hazards
Moving parts can crush and cut hands and fingers. Keep hands clear of push plate, wedge and logs while splitting.
High Pressure Hydraulic Fluid Hazards
High fluid pressures and temperatures are developed in hydraulic log splitters. Hydraulic fluid escaping through even a pinsize hole opening can puncture skin and cause severe blood poisoning. Inspect hydraulic system regularly for possible leaks.
Never check for leaks with your hand while the system is pressurized. Seek medical attention immediately if injured by
escaping fluid.
Fire Hazards
If your log splitter is intended for use near an ignitable forest, brush, or grassy covered land, the engine exhaust should be
equipped with a spark arrestor. See the "Specifications" section of this manual to determine if your splitter already has a spark
arrestor. If not equipped, call Wel-Bilt Product Support for ordering information.
Keep a fire extinguisher with you that is rated for ordinary combustibles and flammable liquids.
ADD OIL TO ENGINE BEFORE USING: Engine is shipped without oil. DO NOT start log splitter without first adding oil. See
Engine Operation Section of this manual.
ADD HYDRAULIC OIL: Your log splitter was shipped without hydraulic oil. Refer to Periodic Maintenance section of this manual
for instructions on filling the hydraulic reservoir
INSPECT COMPONENTS: Closely inspect to make sure no components are missing or damaged.
See Initial Unpacking & Set-up for instructions and for whom to contact to report missing or damaged parts.
ITEM NUMBER: 141300
SERIAL NUMBER: _____________
Owner's Manual
Instructions for Assembly, Testing, Operation,
Servicing & Storage
12 Ton Log Splitters: Outdoor hydraulic powered machine that splits
wood logs.
Any Questions, Comments, Problems or Parts Orders
Call Wel-Bilt Product Support 1-877-234-6869
1

Hazard Signal Word Definitions
2

Table of Contents
About Your Log Splitter ........................................................................................................... 4
Safety Label Locations ............................................................................................................. 5
Machine Components Identification ........................................................................................ 9
Initial Set-up ............................................................................................................................. 10
Moving & Towing to the Job Site ............................................................................................ 12
Before Each Use:
Step One: Inspection/Maintenance ................................................................................. 15
Step Two: Refueling ....................................................................................................... 17
Step Three: Work site Selection & Set-up .................................................................... 18
Splitting Operation ................................................................................................................... 19
Storage ...................................................................................................................................... 24
Periodic Maintenance ............................................................................................................... 25
Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................................ 27
Specifications ........................................................................................................................... 28
Assembly Instructions .............................................................................................................. 29
Parts Breakdown – Splitter Exploded Views ........................................................................... 33
Parts Breakdown – Engine Exploded Views ............................................................................ 42
Engine Operation ...................................................................................................................... 45
Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation ....................................................... 64
Limited Warranty ..................................................................................................................... 68
3

About Your Log Splitter
This log splitter uses a high-pressure hydraulic system to generate a very strong splitting
force.
Read the manual completely before using the machine to understand how to safely operate
and maintain it.
Thank you for purchasing your Wel-Bilt log splitter!
About Your Log Splitter:
This log splitter is a machine designed to split wood logs using a hydraulically powered moving push
plate. The log splitter's gasoline engine is used to pressurize the hydraulic system.
This log splitter is designed to split logs up to 18.5‖ long and 12‖ diameter.
This log splitter is designed to split logs lengthwise with the grain only.
Your splitter can be used in the horizontal splitting position:
When the splitter is in the horizontal splitting position, a log is placed on the horizontal beam
and the push plate moves horizontally to push the log into the wedge to split it.
The technical specifications for your log splitter are provided in the Specifications section of this
manual.
Follow all safety precautions presented throughout this manual. A summary of important safety
information can be found at the end of this manual.
Contact Wel-Bilt Product Support at 1-877-234-6869 for any questions about the appropriate use
of this log splitter and/or optional accessories.
Warranty Registration:
Please fill out the warranty registration section towards the back of the manual for any future product
literature or replacement parts you may need.
Attention: All Rental Companies and Private Owners who loan this
equipment to others!
All persons to whom you rent/loan the log splitter must have access to and read this manual. Keep this owner's
manual with the splitter at all times and advise all persons who will operate the machine to read it. You must
provide instruction on how to safely operate the splitter and remain available to answer any questions a
renter/borrower might have.
4

Safety Label Locations
Danger Projectile Hazard Decal
2 2 Warning Fluid Hazard and Blade Hazard Decal
1 3 Warning Operating Instructions Decal
Operating Instructions Decal
Caution Add Hydraulic Oil Decal
1 6 Wel-Bilt Logo Cylinder Decal (Large)
2 7 Never Disassemble or Repair Image Decal
Warning Towing Hazard Decal
1 9 Wel-Bilt Logo Tank Decal (Small)
Warning Burn Hazard Decal
Warning Flying Debris and Split Control Lever Operation
Warning Fire Hazard and Poisonous Gas Decal
Warning Fire and Explosion Hazard Decal
Caution Engine Oil Level Decal
Wel-Bilt Serial Number Decal
Wel-Bilt Emission Control Information Decal
Towing Log Splitter Decal
Moving Log Splitter Decal
Always make sure safety labels are in good condition. If a safety label is missing or not legible, order new
labels or unsafe operation could result.
5

Machine Component Identification
Hydraulic Oil Dipstick (Breather)
Support Leg/Towing Coupler
208cc Wel-Bilt Gas Engine
Split Control Lever Handle
Return Spring Tube Assembly
9

Initial Set-Up
Step One:
Inspect Log
Splitter
Components
Closely inspect all log splitter components.
(See Machine Components section of this manual for diagram of components.)
If you have missing components, contact Product Support at 1-877-234-6869.
If you have damaged components, contact the Freight Company that delivered the unit
and file a claim.
Step Two:
Add Oil to Engine
Add oil to the engine. Using a funnel. Add SAE 10W-30 oil up to the FULL mark
on the dipstick. (See engine operation section for oil capacity and location of fill cap.)
Step Three:
Add Hydraulic Oil
to Reservoir
WARNING: High fluid pressures and temperatures are developed in hydraulic log
splitters. Hydraulic fluid escaping through a pin hole sized opening can burn or
puncture skin, resulting in wounds that could cause blood poisoning, infection,
disability, gangrene, amputation, or death. Therefore, the following instructions
should be heeded at all times when inspecting or servicing the hydraulic components
of the log splitter.
NEVER check for leaks with your hand. Leaks can be located by holding a piece of
cardboard or wood (at least two feet long) with your hand at one end and passing the
other end over the suspected area (wear eye protection). Look for discoloration of the
cardboard or wood.
NEVER adjust the pressure of the pump or valve.
If injured by escaping fluid, no matter how small the wound is, see a doctor at once. A
typical injection injury may be a small wound that does not look serious. However,
severe infection or reaction can result if proper medical treatment is not administered
immediately by a doctor who is familiar with injection injuries.
1. Remove hydraulic oil dipstick.
2. Refer to the Specifications section for approximate hydraulic oil capacity.
3. Fill reservoir with 10 wt AW32, ASLE H-150, or ISO 32 oil. Use a funnel
4. Replace hydraulic oil dipstick.
5. Start engine and use control valve handle to extend and retract push plate 5 (five)
times to remove air from the high pressure lines.
6. With push plate retracted, check oil level again. Fill if necessary.
WARNING: NEVER remove the hydraulic oil fill cap when the engine is
running or hot. Hot oil can escape causing severe burns. Allow log splitter to
cool completely before removing hydraulic oil fill cap.
Engine is shipped without oil. DO NOT start the engine before adding oil.
See Assembly Instructions section of this manual to assemble the log splitter before set-up.
10

Initial Set-Up
Note: If the log splitter will be running for long periods of time in outdoor
temperatures above 70F, we recommend changing the hydraulic oil to DEXRON III.
11

The log splitter is heavy. It can crush and cause serious injury if it rolls out of control or tips over.
Follow the instructions below for safely moving and towing the log splitter.
IMPORTANT: Make sure log splitter engine is off.
Never move the log splitter with its engine running.
2. Fuel valve off
(if equipped)
Turn fuel valve off to prevent carburetor flooding and reduce the chance of fuel
leakage. Refer to Engine section of this manual for fuel valve location.
Always tighten the dipstick before moving the Logsplitter.
4. Move log splitter
to work site or
tow hitch
Move log splitter by hand either directly to chosen work site or to vehicle
hitch for towing.
(See ―Before Each Use‖ section on selecting a work site)
Important Safety Instructions:
Hills. Do not move the log splitter up or down hills by hand—use a towing
vehicle.
No riding. Never allow anyone to sit or ride on the log splitter.
No cargo. Never transport cargo or wood on the log splitter.
Moving the log splitter:
Moving and Towing to the Job Site
12

Review towing safety instructions in your vehicle manual.
Make sure tires are in good condition.
Attach log splitter to vehicle hitch
1. Rotate the support leg upwards.
2. Attach the support leg to the vehicle hitch.
3. Secure the support leg to the vehicle hitch with the lock pin. See below for
proper (LOCKED) position.
4. Tow to desired
location
Tow log splitter carefully to desired work site.
(See Before Each Use section on selecting an appropriate work site)
Important safety instructions:
Towing. This machine should not be towed on any street, highway or public
road.
Added length. Be aware of the added length of the splitter.
Backing up. It is recommended to use a spotter outside the vehicle.
Speed limit. Never tow this log splitter over 5 mph. Faster speeds may
result in loss of control or damage to the splitter.
Rough terrain. Drive slowly and take extra caution when traveling over
rough terrain. .
Unattended. Turn off the towing vehicle before leaving the splitter
unattended.
Under the influence. Never tow or operate this splitter while under the
influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
Operation. Never operate log splitter while it is attached to the vehicle
Towing:
Moving and Towing to the Job Site
13

Moving and Towing to the Job Site
Disconnect log splitter from vehicle hitch
1. Remove the lock pin to disconnect the support leg from the vehicle hitch. See
below for proper (UNLOCK) position.
2. Remove the support leg from the vehicle hitch.
3. Rotate the support leg downwards.
14

Before Each Use-Inspection / Maintenance
ALWAYS shut off the engine, disconnect the spark plug, and relieve system pressure before
inspecting, cleaning, adjusting, or repairing the splitter. Relieve system pressure by moving Split
Control Lever back and forth several times.
1. Engine off /
relieve pressure
Perform all inspections/repairs with the engine off and hydraulic system pressure relieved.
1. Make sure engine is off and cool.
2. Disconnect the spark plug
3. Relieve all hydraulic system pressure by moving the Split Control Lever back and forth
several times.
Remove debris from engine, muffler, and moving parts.
1. Engine debris. Debris on a hot engine can be a fire hazard. Clean debris and chaff from
engine cylinder head, cylinder head fins, blower housing rotating screen, and muffler
areas. Avoid contact with hot muffler.
2. Other debris. Debris on moving parts can cause excess wear. Clear debris from the slide
beam, wedge, and push plate.
Check fuel tank and fuel lines for leaks.
Any fuel leak is a fire hazard. Fix any fuel leaks before starting engine.
Check to be sure that all nuts and bolts are tight to make sure the log splitter is in safe
working condition.
Lubricate the beam area with engine oil before and after each use where push plate slides.
DO NOT use grease to lubricate. Make sure to lubricate both front and back of the beam face.
WARNING: NEVER disassemble the spring tubes. The internal springs are powerful and
can cause bodily harm if ejected.
Step One: Inspect and maintain log splitter before each use
If the log splitter has been used previously, it must be inspected and maintained BEFORE EACH SUBSEQUENT USE.
IMPORTANT:
If a part needs replacement, only use parts that meet the manufacturer's specifications. Replacement parts that do not meet
specifications may result in a safety hazard or poor operation of the log splitter.
15

Before Each Use-Inspection / Maintenance
Check the hydraulic system carefully:
1. Visually inspect all hoses, tubing, clamps/fittings, pump, and cylinder for cracks, fraying,
kinks, or other damage.
2. Check all components for oily residue, which may indicate a leak.
DO NOT operate the log splitter if there is any indication of damage or oily residue. Small leaks
in hydraulic lines can cause severe injuries and can also be an indication of catastrophic failure
in the near future. The life of hydraulic hoses may be from a few months to a few years,
depending on use and storage patterns.
WARNING: High fluid pressures and temperatures are developed in hydraulic log
splitters. Hydraulic fluid escaping through a pin hole sized opening can burn or
puncture skin, resulting in wounds that could cause blood poisoning, infection,
disability, gangrene, amputation, or death. Therefore, the following instructions should
be heeded at all times when inspecting or servicing the hydraulic components of the log
splitter:
Stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug, and move all control valve handles back
and forth to relieve pressure before changing or adjusting hydraulic system
components such as hoses, tubing, fittings or other components.
NEVER check for leaks with your hand. Leaks can be located by holding a piece of
cardboard or wood (at least two feet long) with your hand at one end and passing the
other end over the suspected area (wear eye protection). Look for discoloration of the
cardboard or wood.
NEVER adjust the pressure setting of the pump or valve.
If injured by escaping fluid, no matter how small the wound is, see a doctor at once.
A typical injection injury may be a small puncture wound that does not look serious.
However, severe infection or reaction can result if proper medical treatment is not
administered immediately by a doctor who is familiar with injection injuries.
Check the hydraulic oil level using the dipstick. Fill as needed.
WARNING: NEVER remove the hydraulic oil dipstick when the log splitter is running
or hot. Hot oil can escape causing severe burns. Allow log splitter to cool completely
before removing hydraulic oil dipstick.
Inspect and perform engine maintenance as directed in the engine operation section of this
manual.
8. Spark arrestor
muffler
If the engine is equipped with a spark arrestor muffler, clean and inspect it regularly
(follow spark arrestor manufacturer's service instructions).
Replace if damaged.
Make sure tires are in good condition if you will be towing the splitter.
Replace all guards and shields after servicing the log splitter.
16

Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling
fuel. Use extreme care when handling gasoline.
The engine must be off and allowed to cool at least two minutes before adding fuel.
WARNING: A running engine is hot enough to ignite fuel. Never add fuel or remove gas
cap if engine is running or still hot.
Fill fuel tank outdoors – never indoors.
WARNING: Gasoline vapors can ignite if they collect inside an enclosure. Explosion can
result.
Add gasoline through fill opening from a UL-approved container.
Important Safety Instructions:
Use approved container. NEVER pump fuel directly into engine at gas station. Static
charge can build and ignite fuel. Use a UL approved fuel container to transfer gas to the
engine.
Don't overfill. DO NOT overfill the gas tank. Allow at least 1/2" of empty space below
the fill neck to allow for fuel expansion
Heat / flames / sparks. Stay away from sources of heat, flame, or sparks while adding
fuel.
Clean up fuel spills /splashes immediately.
1. Move the log splitter away from spilled fuel on the ground.
2. Wipe fuel off engine and wait 5 minutes for excess fuel to evaporate before starting engine.
3. Gas soaked rags are flammable and should be disposed of properly.
4. If gasoline is spilled on your skin or clothes, change clothes and wash skin immediately.
Replace gas cap securely before starting engine.
Store extra gasoline in a cool, dry place in a UL approved, tightly sealed container.
Step Two: Fueling
Before Each Use - Fueling
17

Before Each Use – Work Site Selection and Set-up
It is important to select an appropriate work site and properly set up the log splitter in order to
minimize the risk of slips and falls, equipment rolling or tipping over, carbon monoxide poisoning,
and accidental fires.
Select an appropriate location for operating the log splitter.
Requirements:
1. Dry-level surface with good footing. Stay clear of areas with mud, ice, tall grass, weeds,
brush, or snow.
2. Outdoors, away from air intakes.
WARNING: The running engine gives off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can
kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it.
ONLY run log splitter OUTDOORS and away from air intakes. NEVER run log splitter
inside homes, garages, sheds, or other buildings or semi-enclosed spaces. These spaces can
trap poisonous gases, EVEN if you run a fan or open windows.
If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using the log splitter, shut off the engine and
get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.
Take the following precautions against fire:
1. IMPORTANT: If your splitter will be used near any unimproved forest, brush, or
grassy covered land, then engine must be equipped with a spark arrestor.
(See the "Specifications" section of this manual to determine if your splitter already has a
spark arrestor. Contact Wel-Bilt Product Support at 1-877-234-6869 for information about
obtaining a spark arrestor for your log splitter if it is unequipped.)
2. Make sure you comply with applicable local, state and federal codes.
3. Keep a fire extinguisher available (classified for both ordinary combustibles & flammable
liquids) as a precautionary measure when operating the log splitter in dry areas.
3. Position splitter 7'
from any
combustibles or
flammable liquids
Position muffler at least 7 ft. from combustible objects during operation.
Hot exhaust fumes from engine could cause fire. Also, hydraulic oil leaking or spraying on hot
engine can ignite.
Block the wheels to prevent unintended movement of the log splitter.
Lubricate the beam area before and after each use where push plate slides. DO NOT use
grease to lubricate. Make sure to lubricate both front and back of the beam face.
Step Three: Work site selection and log splitter set-up
18

Splitting Operation
Before starting this log splitter, review the following instructions and safety information for safe
operation of the log splitter.
Failure to follow these rules may result in serious injury to the operator or bystanders from moving
parts that crush, cut, or entangle from flying objects, burns, fire, falling or tripping, or from carbon
monoxide poisoning.
General safety information:
Read manual. Do not allow anyone to operate the log splitter who has not read the Owner's Manual or has not
been instructed on the safe use of the splitter. The log splitter owner should instruct all operators in safe log
splitter operation.
Age restrictions. Never allow anyone under 16 years old to operate the log splitter. Anyone 16 years and older
must be trained and supervised by a trained adult.
Intended use. Log splitters should only be used for splitting wood logs, lengthwise with the grain. Do not use for
other purposes as unforeseen hazards may result.
Modifications. Never modify or alter the log splitter in any way. Modifications can create serious safety
hazards and will void the warranty:
Attachments. Never add attachments to the splitter, except for authorized accessories supplied by the
manufacturer with instructions for safe installation and use.
Engine speed. The maximum engine speed is preset at a safe limit. Never attempt to modify the engine speed
setting to run at a higher speed.
Fuel/exhaust system. NEVER modify or add to the exhaust system, fuel tanks, or fuel lines. Fire can result.
Remote control. NEVER attach a rope, cable, or other remote device to the splitting control.
Splitting wedge. NEVER attempt to change the height of the splitting wedge.
Pressure setting. NEVER increase the pressure setting of the pump or control valve.
Safety equipment / controls. Always operate the log splitter with all safety equipment in place and in good
working order, and all controls properly adjusted for safe operation.
Know how to stop. Be thoroughly familiar with all controls and with the proper use of the equipment. Know
how to stop the log splitter and relieve system pressures quickly if needed.
Operating speed. Always operate the log splitter at the manufacturer's recommended speed. The maximum
speed of the engine pump and push plate are preset within safe limits.
Daylight only. Only use the log splitter in daylight so you can see what you are doing.
Smoking / sparks. Never smoke while operating the log splitter, and never operate near sources of sparks or
flames.
Under the influence. Never operate, or let anyone else operate, the log splitter while under the influence of
alcohol, drugs, or medication.
Unattended. Never leave the machine unattended while the engine is running.
Refueling. Never refuel the engine until it has cooled at least two minutes.
Adjusting / repairing. Always make sure the engine is off before cleaning, repairing or adjusting the splitter,
except as recommended by the manufacturer. In addition, disconnect the spark plug and move all control handles
back and forth to relieve system pressure before changing or adjusting hydraulic system components such as
hoses, tubing, fittings or other components.
Replace labels. Always make sure safety labels are in place and in good condition. If a safety label is missing or
not legible, order new labels because unsafe operation can result. Call 1-877-234-6869 to order new safety labels.
19

Splitting Operation
1. Put on
protective
clothing /
gear
Wear the following protective clothing and safety gear:
1) Eye protection. Always wear safety glasses or goggles when operating the machine. Pieces
of log may fly out and serious eye injury can occur.
2) Boots. Falling logs can crush feet. Always wear safety shoes or heavy boots when operating
or helping to load logs.
3) Gloves. Wear snug fitting gloves without drawstrings or loose cuffs.
4) Hearing protection. The use of earplugs or other hearing protection device is recommended.
5) No Loose / dangling. Loose or dangling apparel can become entangled in moving parts.
Never wear jewelry or loose-fitting clothing.
Block the wheels to prevent unintended movement of the log splitter. Check that:
1) The support leg is in the DOWN position.
2) The wheels are blocked.
3. Set to
splitting
position
Set log splitter into splitting position. Place the log splitter on level, dry ground.
Note:
Musculoskeletal injury can result from lifting logs onto the log splitter if proper lifting techniques
are not used or the logs are too heavy for a person's size, weight, or strength. In some cases, logs
as small as 8" in diameter and 14" in length may be heavier than what some persons should be
repeatedly lifting onto the splitter.
Employers are advised to consider NIOSH lifting guidelines when assigning employees to log
splitting tasks for an extended period of time.
Start the engine.
See the engine section of this manual for engine starting instructions.
NOTE:
a) Make sure the hydraulic oil is above 10F before starting the engine. Cold hydraulic oil can
damage the hydraulic pump.
b) If outdoor air temperature is below 32F, allow log splitter to warm up by extending and
returning the push plate several times before splitting wood.
WARNING:
Burns. To avoid burns, stay clear of hot muffler if you are starting a warm engine.
Carbon monoxide. The running engine gives off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas
that can kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it. If you start to feel sick,
dizzy, or weak while using the log splitter, shut off the engine and get to fresh air
RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide poisoning.
Other exhaust dangers. Engine exhaust, some of its constituents and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth
defects, or other reproductive harm. Avoid inhalation of exhaust.
20

Splitting Operation
Load log onto beam with a cut end against the wedge – positioned for a lengthwise cut.
Notes:
a) The log splitter is designed only for cutting lengthwise with the grain, NOT for cutting
across the grain.
b) This log splitter is designed for cutting logs only up to 18.5" long lengthwise with the grain
and 12‖ diameter. Large diameter logs could get stuck on the wedge and longer logs will
not fit on the beam.
Correct Log Orientation Incorrect Log Orientation
WARNING: ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from the push plate, wedge, and
partially split logs while loading, operating and unloading the log splitter.
Important safety instructions:
Hold bark side. Hold the bark side of logs when loading or positioning, never the ends.
Never place your hands or any part of your body between a log and any part of the log
splitter.
Push plate moving. NEVER load or unload logs while the push plate is moving.
Straddling / reaching across. Never straddle, reach across, or step over the beam while the
engine is running and the log splitter is in the horizontal position. You could trip, actuate
the controls, and get seriously injured.
Unsplit log pile. Do not pile logs to be split in a place that will make you reach across the
log splitter in order to load them.
Square log ends. Logs that are not cut square can slide out while splitting and become a
safety hazard or cause excessive force to log splitter components. Use a chainsaw to cut
logs square on each end before attempting to split them.
Single log. Never attempt to split more than one log at a time. Pieces of log can
unexpectedly be thrown from the machine causing serious injury.
Split along grain. Do not use the log splitter to split logs across the grain. Doing so will
damage the log splitter and could also cause pieces of log to be thrown, injuring the operator
or bystanders.
Forked logs. Splitting forked logs can cause damage the log splitter. Trim the forked log
with a chain saw prior to splitting the log.
21