Gib Adjustment; Off-Season Storage - MTD 550 Series Operator's Manual

To lower the beam: Off-Season
Storage
1. Pull out the vertical beam lock on the reservoir tank.
2. Pivot beam lock down to release the beam.
3. Carefully pull back on the beam and lower it to the
horizontal position. The horizontal beam lock will lock
automatically.
WedgeAssembly
As normal wear occurs and there is excessive "play" between
the wedge and beam, adjust the bolts on the side of the wedge
assembly to eliminate excess space between the wedge and the
beam.
1. Loosen the jam nuts on the two adjustment bolts on the
side of the wedge. See Fig. 6-2.
,Lock Nut
Adjustment Bolt-
_Lock Nut
Figure 6-2
2. Turn the adjustment bolts in until snug and then back
them off slowly (approximately 1-1/2 turns) until the wedge
assembly will slide on the beam.
3. Re-tighten the jam nuts securely against the side of the
wedge to secure the adjustment bolts in this position.
Gib Adjustment
Periodically remove and replace the gibs -- spacers -- between
the wedge assembly and the back plate.
NOTE:The gibs may be rotated and/or turned over for even wear.
1. Loosen the lock nuts under each back plate and slide the
gibs out. See Fig. 6-2.
2. Turn or replace the gibs.
3. Reassemble the back plate and secure it with lock nuts.
4. Readjust the bolts on the side of the wedge assembly
If the log splitter will not be used for more than 30 days, prepare
it for storage as follows:
_ ARNING! Never store the machine with fuel in
the fuel tank inside of building where fumes may
reach an open flame or spark, or where ignition
sources are present such as hot water and space
heaters, furnaces, clothes dryers, stoves, electric
motors, etc.
1. Clean the log splitter thoroughly.
NOTE:The use of pressure washers or a garden hose to
clean the splitter is not recommended. They may cause
damage to the bearings or the engine. The use of water will
result in a shortened life and reduce serviceability.
2. Wipe the machine with an oiled rag to prevent rust,
especially on the wedge and the beam.
3. Drain the fuel tank. Always drain the fuel into an approved
container outdoors and away from open flames. Be sure
that the engine is cool before draining the fuel. Do not
smoke while handling the fuel.
4. Start the engine and let it run until the fuel lines and
carburetor are empty.
5. Remove the spark plug. Holding a rag over the cylinder
hole, pour approximately 1/2-ounce (approximately one
tablespoon) of engine oil into the cylinder and crank slowly
to distribute the oil.
6. Replace the spark plug.
7. Do not store gasoline from one season to another.
8. Replace your gasoline can if it starts to rust. Rust and/or dirt
in the gasoline will cause problems.
9. Store the log splitter in a clean, dry area. Do not store it
next to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.
NOTE: If storing in an unventilated or metal storage shed,
be certain to rustproof the equipment by coating it with a
light oil or silicone.
SECTION 6 -- MAINTENANCE & ADJUSTMENTS
1S