Log Splitter Operation Guide

LOG SPLITTERS INHERENTLY LEAK HYDRAULIC OIL. PLACE THE SPLITTER AWAY FROM CONCRETE OR SITES WHERE SPILLS WILL DO DAMAGE.

NEVER operate your lag splitter on slippery, wet, muddy or icy surfaces. The location you choose should be flat, dry and free from any tall grass, brush or other interference.
NEVER operate engine in an enclosed area. Exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which can be deadly when inhaled.
NEVER attempt to move your log splitter over hilly or uneven terrain without a tow vehicle.
NEVER use your log splitter at night.
ALWAYS operate your log splitter on dry, solid, level ground.
ALWAYS block wheels to prevent movement of machine while in operation.

ALWAYS make sure that both ends of the log you are splitting are cut as square as possible. This will prevent the log from sliding out of position while under pressure. Log should be 24 inches or shorter in length.

NEVER operate your log splitter when it is in need of repair or is in poor mechanical condition.
NEVER tamper with the engine to run it at excessive speeds. The maximum engine speed is preset and is within safety limits.
NEVER make alterations to your log splitter in any manner. Such alterations may cause the log splitter to become unsafe and WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
NEVER attach a rope or extension to the control lever or add width or height to the splitting wedge. Such ALTERATIONS may cause the log splitter to become UNSAFE and WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
ALWAYS inspect your log splitter before each use. Always check that all nuts, bolts, screws, hydraulic fittings, hose clamps and latches are securely tightened.
ALWAYS check to see that the hydraulic oil tank and engine reservoir are at the correct levels. ALWAYS disconnect spark plug lead when unit is not in operation.
ALWAYS clean unit after each use. If possible, store unit inside or cover it completely if stored outside.

ALWAYS check before towing to make certain your log splitter is correctly and securely attached to the towing vehicle. Be sure that the ball hitch you are using is a 2″ ball. Be sure the safety chains are properly hooked to the vehicle leaving enough slack for turning.
NEVER exceed 35 m.p.h. when towing your log splitter. Obey all state and local regulations when towing on state and local roads and highways. Adjust your speed for terrain and conditions as needed. Be extra cautious when towing over rough terrain, especially over a railroad crossing.
NEVER allow anyone to sit or ride on your log splitter.
NEVER carry any cargo or wood on your log splitter.
ALWAYS allow for added length of the log splitter when turning, parking, crossing intersections, and in all driving situations.
ALWAYS be careful when backing up. You could jackknife your log splitter if care is not taken.
ALWAYS disconnect your log splitter from your towing vehicle before attempting to use it.

NEVER operate the log splitter near a flame or spark. Motor oil and gasoline are flammable and can explode.
DO NOT fill the gas tank while the engine is hot or running. Allow the engine time to cool down before refueling.
NEVER smoke while operating or refueling the log splitter. Gasoline, oil and even gas fumes can explode.
ONLY refuel the log splitter outdoors in a clear area void of gas fumes or spilled gasoline.
ALWAYS use approved fuel container.
ALWAYS replace the gas cap securely.
If gasoline is spilled, move the machine away from the area of the spill and avoid creating any source of ignition until the spilled gasoline has completely evaporated.
Take a class B fire extinguisher with you when operating the log splitter in dry areas as a precautionary measure against possible flying sparks.
Always store gasoline in an approved, tightly sealed container. Store the container in a cool, dry place. Do not store the container in a house or near any heating appliance.
NOTE: The log splitter is equipped with an 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 local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the owner and/or operator.

START THE ENGINE. Let the engine warm up for a minute or more.
Place the log on the beam and center it.
- For large diameter logs, slice cut instead of center cut log. Attempting to split larger diameter logs with a single center cut will place undue pressure on the cylinder ram, cause Jog jamming and reduce your cycle time and splitting output.
Pull the valve control lever toward the log. Hold the lever in this position until the log is split or the cylinder rod stops at its maximum travel position.
- If the cylinder rod is fully extended and log is not completely split, retract cylinder rod by pushing back on the control valve lever. Place a second smaller log crosswise directly behind first log and use it as a shim to complete splitting of first log.
DO NOT attempt cross splitting of second log! This will place undue pressure on cylinder ram and cause wood fragments to fly in all directions.
Stand back – do not allow log to fall on you.
NOTE: FOR YOUR SAFETY, lever must be held to extend cylinder ram. All movement will stop any time lever is released from the forward position. Do not alter or circumvent this configuration in any way.
NEVER place hands or feet between log and splitting wedge or between log or ram during operation.
Only use your hand to operate the control lever. NEVER use your foot, knee, a rope or any extension device.