Operating Tips - MTD Series 550 Operator's Manual

OperatingTips
Always:
I. Use clean fluid and check the fluid level regularly.
2. Use an approved hydraulic fluid. Approved fluids include
Shell Tellus ®32 Hydraulic Fluid, Dexron ® III / Mercon ®
automatic transmission fluid, Pro-Selecg MAW-32 Hydraulic
Oil or 10WAW-ISO viscosity grade 32 hydraulic oil.
NOTE: It is not recommended that fluids be mixed.
3. Use a filter (clean or replace regularly).
4. Use a breather cap on the fluid reservoir.
5. Make sure the pump is mounted and aligned properly.
6. Use a flexible "spider" type coupling between the engine
and pump drive shafts.
7. Keep the hoses clear and unblocked.
8. Bleed the air out of the hoses before operating.
9. Flush and clean the hydraulic system before restarting after
servicing.
10. Use "pipe dope" on all hydraulic fittings.
11. Allow time for the engine to warm-up before splitting the
wood.
12. Prime the pump before the initial start-up by turning over
the engine with the spark plug disconnected (if not already
done at the factory).
13. Split the wood along the grain (lengthwise) only.
Never:
I. Use when the fluid is below 20 ° F or above 150° F.
2. Use a solid engine/pump coupling.
3. Operate through relief valve for more than 5 seconds.
4. Attempt to adjust the unloading or relief valve settings
without pressure gauges.
5. Operate with air in the hydraulic system.
6. Use teflon tape on the hydraulic fittings.
7. Attempt to cut wood across the grain.
8. Attempt to remove partially split wood from the wedge
with your hands. Fully retract the wedge to dislodge the
wood with the log dislodger.
SECTION S -- OPERATION
15