Use and Care Manual

COLD WEATHER START UP
The Cold Weather Clutch enables the engine to be started without having to pull through cold, thickened
hydraulic fluid. Simply push the handle in to the locked position. Start engine, let it warm up, and
pull out
the Cold Weather Clutch handle to engage pump system. If the engine is left running for extended priod of
time (5 minutes or longer) without splitting wood disengage the pump drive system via Cold Weather
Clutch to insure the hydraulic oil does not reach excessive temperatures.
4-WAY WEDGE OPERATION: See 18851 Owners Manual in parts bag.
SPLITTER OPERATION
1. Set up the log splitter in a clear, level area and block the wheels. The suction port on the tank should always
be on the lower side of the log splitter.
2. Place a log on
the beam, against the foot plate. Make sure the log is securely on the foot plate and up against
the beam.
3. Depress the valve lever so that the cylinder will drive the wedge into the log. Extend the cylinder until the
log splits or to the end of its stroke. If the log has not completely split after the cylinder has reached the end
of its extension, retract the cylinder, reposition log and repeat process. NOTE: Leaving the valve in the
“actuate” position at the end of the stroke may damage the pump. Always use extra care when splitting logs
with ends that are not square.
NOTE: To extend the life of the hydraulic cylinder, avoid “BOTTOMING OUT” the cylinder.
4. When using the Log Splitter in the vertical position, make sure the beam latch is engaged as shown below.
Pull the bent pin outward then twist and release it to hold the I-beam in place.
TOWING SAFETY
This unit should not be towed on any street, highway, or public road without checking the existing federal, local, and
state laws. Any licensing or modifications such as taillights, etc., need to comply with existing federal, local, or state
vehicle requirements is the sole responsibility of the purchaser. Obey all regulations when towing on public roads
and highways. See also SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
*Turn the fuel shut-off valve OFF to prevent flooding of the engine while traveling.
*Insure that 4-way wedge is placed securely in the towing position, fastened to the motorbase or in
the towing vehicle.
*Be careful when backing up. You can easily jack-knife your splitter.
TOWING AT NIGHT
The requirements for taillights are based on States regulations. Some states allow towing at night as long
as the towed equipment does not visibly impair the tow vehicle taillights. This is based on a state, to state
requirements. The customer is responsible for meeting the states requirements.
If a “Statement of Origin” is required in your state, see your local dealer to receive one.
HYDRAULIC SAFETY
The hydraulic system on your splitter requires careful inspection along with the mechanical parts. Be sure to replace
any frayed, kinked, cracked or otherwise damaged hydraulic components. Just because it isn’t leaking today doesn’t
mean that it will not fail tomorrow.
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