Adjusting Your Log Splitter; Maintaining Your Log Splitter; Conditions That Will Void Warranty; Hydraulic Fluid - MTD 500 Series Operator's Manual

WARNING:
Do not tow faster than 45mph.
Check local, state, and federal requirements
before towing on any public road.
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. Always wear safety glasses
during operation or while performing any
adjustments or repairs.
Wedge Assembly
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 excess space
between the wedge and the 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.
Gib
Periodically remove and replace the "gibs" (spacers)
between the wedge assembly and the back plate.
See Figure 10.
SECTION 6: MAINTAINING YOUR LOG SPLITTER
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. Always wear
safety glasses during operation or while
performing any adjustments or repairs.

Conditions That Will Void Warranty

1. Failure to maintain proper fluid level in reservoir.
2. Changing the relief valve setting or pressure
adjustment of control valve without proper
knowledge and instruction from the factory.
3. Disassembling the pump.
4. Use of incorrect hydraulic fluid.
5. Allowing the flexible pump coupler to deteriorate
NOTE: Use caution
recommended to use a spotter outside the vehicle.
NOTE: The gibs may be rotated and/or turned over for
even wear.
• Loosen the lock nuts under 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
Bolt
Jam Nut
Lock Nut
WARNING:
the hoses to burst, cylinder to rupture, and
intense fluid to be released, which could result
in serious personal injury.
without proper and regular inspection.
6. Lack of lubrication or improper lubrication of the
beam or unit.
7. Improper adjustment of splitting wedge.
8. Excessive heating of the hydraulic system.
9. Attempting to start unit in temperatures under 20°F
without pre-heating fluid in reservoir.
10. Unattended leaks in hydraulic system.

Hydraulic Fluid

• Check the hydraulic fluid level in the log splitter
reservoir tank before each use.
10
when backing up.
Gibs
Lock
Washer
Figure 10
Higher pressure could cause
It is