Adjusting Your Log Splitter; Maintaining Your Log Splitter - MTD 550 Series Operator's Manual

Transporting The Leg Splitter
Lower the beam to its horizontal position. Make
certain the beam is locked securely with the
horizontal beam lock.
Remove the spring clip and clevis pin from jack
stand. Support the tongue and pivot the jack stand
up against the tongue. Secure with the spring clip
and clevis pin previously removed. See Figure 9.
Attach coupler hitch to a class I or higher 1-7/8" ball
on a towing vehicle, making certain to latch
securely.
If coupler hitch does not fit on ball, turn adjustment
nut one turn counter-clockwise.
If coupler hitch is too loose on ball, turn adjustment
nut one turn clockwise.
Connect the safety chains to the towing vehicle.
Do not tow faster than 45mph and check local,
state, and federal requirements before towing on
any public road.
If equipped, plug in the taillights as instructed in the
taillight kit manual included with your log splitter.
NOTE: Use caution when backing up. It is
recommended to use a spotter outside the vehicle.
SECTION 5: ADJUSTING YOUR LOG SPLITTER
WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustments without first stopping engine,
disconnecting spark plug wire, and
grounding it against the engine.
WedgeAssembly Adjustment
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 the excess
space between the wedge and beam. See Figure 10.
Loosen the jam nuts on the two adjustment bolts on
the side of the wedge. Turn the adjustment bolts in
until snug and then back them off slowly until the
wedge assembly will slide on the beam.
Tighten the jam nuts securely against the side of
the wedge to hold the adjustment bolts in this
position.
GibAdjustment
Periodically remove and replace the "gibs" (spacers)
between the wedge assembly and the back plate.
See Figure 10.
NOTE: The gibs may be rotated and/or turned over for
even wear.
Loosen the lock nuts under the each back plate and
slide the gibs out.
Turn or replace the gibs.
Reassemble the back plate and secure with the
lock washers and lock nuts.
Readjust the bolts on the side of the wedge
assembly.
Adjustment
Lock
Figure 10
SECTION 6: MAINTAINING YOUR LOG
WARNING: Before cleaning, lubricating,
repairing, or inspecting, disengage the
control lever and stop engine. Disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground it against
the engine to prevent unintended starting.
Hydraulic Fluid
Check the hydraulic fluid level in the log splitter
reservoir tank before each use. Maintain fluid level
SPLITTER
within the range specified on the dipstick at all times.
Change the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir every 100
hours of operation. Disconnect the suction hose from
the bottom of the reservoir tank and drain the fluid into a
suitable container. Refill using only Dexron III automatic
transmission fluid or 10W AW hydraulic fluid.
Be aware of the environment when disposing of
used petroleum products. Please dispose of used
hydraulic fluid and engine oil at approved recycling
centers.
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