Chapter 3: Hydraulic Diagnosis; Overview - MTD 2010 Shop Manual

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OVERVIEW

The main components of the log splitter are all fairly expensive. Hip-shot diagnosis will result in wasted time and
money for the dealer. Throwing wrong parts at a log splitter gets expensive fast.
Troubleshooting is a process of developing and testing theories about the problem that caused the customer to
bring the log splitter in for repair.
To properly diagnose a problem with the hydraulic system of a log splitter;
1. Get complete information from the customer;
1a. Make sure the customer understands how to operate the log splitter.
1b. Make sure the customer knows what the log splitter is supposed to be able to do.
1c. Get a thorough description of the problem the customer is having with the equipment
1d. Get as much maintenance history of the log splitter as possible.
2. Understand the equipment;
2a. Know how each component works in the system.
2b. Know what symptoms each component might produce if it fails.
2c. Test the components against their specifications to identify the problem.
3. Use your understanding of the equipment to work in a logical sequence; See Figure 3.1.
3a. Check the simple stuff first.
3b. Use symptoms to focus your attention.
3c. Test and eliminate theories.
Pump performance;
Wrong oil / low oil
Poor engine or drive performance
Slipping engine coupler
Blocked vent
Low flow rate (bad pump)
Low pressure / flow droop (bad pump)
Missing pump or engine key
Cold oil (below 20 o )
Clogged inlet screen

CHAPTER 3: HYDRAULIC DIAGNOSIS

Cylinder;
External leaks;
(nipple, shaft seal, or bore-end seal)
Internal leaks (blow-by)
Mechanical bind (shaft)
Mechanical bind (beam)
Figure 3.1
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Control valve;
Pump O.K.
Pressure relief too low
Pressure relief too high
Will not stay in return position
Pump O.K.
Control valve O.K.
Hydrualic Diagnosis
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