Chapter 6: Wedge And Beam; Wedge - MTD 2010 Shop Manual

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Wedge

Starting with 2010 production, MTD log splitters have a new beam design. The new beam is made from a heavy
gauge U-channel with a flat plate welded to the top. This replaces the old extruded I-beam design. The new beam is
machined to tighter tolerances then the old design, eliminating the need for an adjustable gib.
Bolt should rotate freely when properly installed
Figure 6.1
Wedge retainer bolts
Figure 6.2
3. Attach the wedge to the ram and tighten the nut and bolt until the threads of the bolt pass through the locking
feature of the nut. When torqued, the bolt should rotate freely in the holes. DO NOT over torque the nut and
bolt.
NOTE: The end of the ram presses against the wedge casting when splitting. The nut and bolt are only to hold
the wedge to the ram while it is retracting.
4. Test run the splitter in a safe area before returning it to service.

CHAPTER 6: WEDGE AND BEAM

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To replace a wedge:
1. Extend the wedge to the middle of the beam.
2. Remove the nut and bolt that attach the wedge to the
ram using a pair of 3/4" wrenches. See Figure 6.1.
3. Slide the wedge toward the base of the beam until it
clears the ram.
4. Remove the six nuts and bolts that attach the wedge
retainer plates to the wedge using a pair of 3/4"
wrenches. See Figure 6.2.
5. Remove the wedge.
To install the wedge:
1. Inspect the beam for any nicks or burrs along the
edges.
NOTE: If any are found, dress them off of the beam.
2. Install the wedge and the wedge retainer plates.
Tighten the six nuts and bolts to a torque of 38 - 53 ft
lbs (52 - 72 Nm).
NOTE: The wedge should move freely up and down the
beam.
Wedge and Beam
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