North Star M11954H Owner's Manual page 34

Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation

Cracks. Cracks in logs can close quickly and pinch fingers. Keep fingers away from any cracks that open in partially
split logs.

Split log pile. Move each log away from log splitter after it is split. Split logs left near the log splitter are a trip hazard.

Remove hands. Remove both hands from log before activating Split Control Lever.

Hand activate. Use only your hand to operate the Split Control Lever. Never use any other body part, or a rope, cable, or
other remote device to actuate the control.

Returning ram. Once the control valve is actuated in the return direction, the ram is designed to keep returning by itself
completely and then stop automatically. Stay clear while the ram is returning. It is still powerful enough on the return stroke
to cause serious injury.

Log stuck on wedge. A log can become stuck to the wedge if the wedge becomes embedded in the log and the log doesn't
split and separate. This can happen if the log is too stringy or tough to split completely. If this happens, follow the directions
below to manually remove the log:
IMPORTANT: NEVER attempt to remove a stuck log by using the hydraulic force of the splitter, or by modifying
or adding attachments to splitter. Personal injury could result from log or metal pieces flying out at high speed
toward the operator or bystanders, or the splitter could become damaged.
1. Retract ram fully.
2. Turn engine OFF.
3. Remove stuck log from the wedge manually with a pry bar or a sledgehammer. Be extremely careful, as log pieces may
fly off as they separate from the wedge. Wear safety goggles and make sure bystanders are clear.
4. Do not attempt to resplit a stuck log once it has been removed from the wedge.

Refueling. Never refuel the engine until it has cooled at least two minutes.

Remove engine debris. Debris on a hot engine can be a fire hazard. With the engine off, clean debris and chaff from engine
cylinder head, cylinder head fins, blower housing rotating screen, and muffler areas. Avoid contact with hot muffler.

Let engine cool before storing. Let engine cool for at least five minutes before storing. A hot engine can be a fire hazard.

Storage location. Store the log splitter in a location away from sources of heat, open flames, sparks or pilot lights – such as
water heaters, space heaters, furnaces, clothes dryers, or other gas appliances. Even if the log splitter's gas tank is empty,
residual gasoline vapors could ignite.

Gasoline storage. Store extra gasoline in a cool, dry place in an UL approved, tightly sealed container. Gasoline vapors can
ignite if they collect inside an enclosure.

Periodic maintenance. Perform periodic maintenance as directed in this manual to keep the log splitter in safe working
condition.
Safety – After use
34