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LOG SPLITTER OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
STARTING
IMPORTANT: The engine and hydraulic reservoir are shipped without oil. See the Engine Operator’s
Manual packed with your log splitter for the type of crankcase oil, fuel, etc. The engine manufacturer
recommends lead-free gasoline only.
CAUTION: DO NOT START OR RUN THE ENGINE WITHOUT OIL IN THE HYDRAULIC
RESERVOIR AND ENGINE.
1. The hydraulic reservoir should be filled with an SAE 30 hydraulic
oil (if temperature will be above 50 degrees when operating unit)
and SAE 20 hydraulic oil (if temperature will be between 32
degrees and 50 degrees). If hydraulic oil is difficult to obtain,
automatic transmission fluid can be substituted and should be
used instead of hydraulic oil when temperatures are below 32
degrees F. Use only clean oil and take care to prevent dirt from
entering the hydraulic reservoir.
ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS
1. For temperatures above 40 degrees F use an SAE 30W oil. Using multigrade oil may increase oil
consumption. Using SAE 30W oil below 40 degrees F will result in hard starting and possible engine bore
damage. For temperatures below 40 degrees F use an SAE 10W-30 or SAE 5W-30 oil. Oil capacity is about
1-1/2 quarts (48 ounces or 1.4 liters). Refer to Engine Operator’s Manual for further information.
DIRECTIONS FOR FILLING HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
1. Fill the hydraulic reservoir with at least three gallons of hydraulic fluid. After the hydraulic reservoir and the
engine crankcase are filled with oil, start the engine. The hydraulic pump should prime itself. With the engine
running, move the hydraulic valve lever toward the wedge. This will cause the cylinder to extend and expel
air. When the cylinder is fully extended, retract it. Repeat this procedure several times. An erratic movement
of the cylinder indicates that there is still air in the system.
NOTE: If the reservoir is overfilled, it will tend to expel oil from the breather cap when the cylinder is
retracted.
STARTING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Move the throttle lever to
“FAST”
. Always operate the engine with throttle lever in the
“FAST”
position.
2. Move choke control lever to
“CHOKE”
position.
3. Grasp rope handle and pull slowly until resistance is felt. Then pull rapidly to start engine and avoid engine
kickback.
4. Allow the engine to warm up. If operating in warm weather, move the choke control lever toward
“RUN”
a
short distance at a time over several seconds. For cold weather operation do this procedure over several
minutes. Operate with choke lever in the
“RUN”
position.
5. To stop engine, move the throttle lever to the
“STOP”
position.
NOTE: The maximum governed speed on the engine is preset at the factory at 3600 RPM no load
speed. When splitting wood, the throttle should be set at the maximum setting to develop the
horsepower required for the pump.
