Know Your Log Splitter - MTD 550 Series Operator's Manual

SECTION 3: KNOW YOUR LOG SPLITTER
Compare the illustration in Figure 7 below with the controls on your log splitter, and get familiar with its features
before starting to operate. Know how to stop the machine quickly in the event of an emergency.
Cylinder
Log
Jack StanloriZmOn_ __
Lock _
Control Handle
J
/ 1 Ic°g
Cradle
IVertical Beam Lock
ReL, ervoir Tank
Tail Light
I
0:
How it works
Reverse_"
/ _ (Automatic) lTo return
/./,_ / weage
'I
Neutral I To stop
--_'-Control I wedge
I
_ Handle
/I
\\
Forward L----,v TOsplit
(Manual) wood
Horizontal
Beam Lock
Vertical
Beam Lock
Figure 7
ControlHandle
The control handle has three positions. See Figure 7.
• FORWARD: Move control handle FORWARD or
DOWN to move wedge to split wood.
NOTE: Control handle will return to neutral position as
soon as handle is released. (Forward Position only)
• NEUTRAL: Release the control handle or move
the lever to neutral position to stop the wedge
movement.
• REVERSE: Move control handle BACK or UP to
return the wedge toward the cylinder. The control
handle stays in the return (Reverse) position and
returns to neutral automatically when fully
retracted.
NOTE: Reverse position may also be operated back to
neutral position manually, if necessary.
EngineControls
See the accompanying engine manual for the location
and function of the controls on the engine.
Stopping Engine
• Move throttle control handle to STOP or OFF
position.
• Turn off the engine switch, if so equipped.
• Disconnect spark plug wire and ground against the
engine to prevent unintended starting.
IMPORTANT: This unit is shipped without gasoline or oil
in the engine. Be certain to service engine with gasoline
and oil as instructed in the accompanying engine
manual before operating your machine.
BeamLocks
These two locks, as their name suggests, are used to
secure the beam in the horizontal or the vertical
position. The vertical beam lock is located next to the oil
filter. The horizontal beam lock is located on the beam
support latch bracket. See Figure 7.