03
Before Each Use – Inspection / Maintenance
Step One: Inspect and maintain log splitter before each use.
IMPORTANT:
If t he log splitt er has been used previously, it must be inspect ed and maint ained BEFORE EACH
SUBSEQUENT USE.
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.
ALWAYS shut off the tractor, relieve system pressure, and disconnect hydraulic lines before inspecting,
cleaning,adjusting, or repairing the splitter. Relieve system pressure by moving Split Control Lever back
and forth several times.
2. Remove debris
3. Mechanical
parts
4. Hydraulic
Components
1. Tractor off
/relieve
hydraulic
pressure
WARNING
Perform all inspections/repairs with the tractor off and hydraulic system pressure
relieved.
1. Turn off tractor engine.
2. Relieve all hydraulic system pressure by moving the Split Control Lever and the tractor
hydraulic control valve handle back and forth several times.
3. Disconnect the hydraulic lines.
Remove debris from moving parts.
Debris on moving parts can cause excess wear. Clear debris from the slide beam wedge,
and endplate.
Check to be sure all nuts and bolts are tight
to make sure the log splitter is in safe
working condition.
1. Visually inspect all hoses and clamps/fittings 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 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.
• 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.
Check the hydraulic components carefully:
