MTD 5DM Series Operator's Manual page 10

4
Operating
Your Log
Splitter
B
Figure 4-4
Reverse
Neutral
Forward
Figure 4-5
Before Each Use
1. Remove the oil plug and check hydraulic fluid level on
B
level ground. Maintain fluid level to just below oil plug.
Refill if necessary. Approved fluids include Dexron®
III, or 10 weight AW hydraulic oil.
2. Check engine oil level. Refill if necessary.
3. Fill up gasoline if necessary.
4. Lubricate the beam area where cylinder will slide with
C
engine oil. Do not use grease to lubricate. Make sure
to lubricate both the top and bottom of the beam face.
5. Attach spark plug wire to the spark plug.
Using the Log Splitter
A
1. Place the log splitter on level, dry ground.
a. Pull locking pin from cylinder base. See Figure 4-4.
b. Use handle to slide cylinder back to lock in place.
c. Reinstall pin.
2. Block the front and back of both wheels.
3. Place the log against the push bracket. Only split
wood in the direction of the grain.
4. To stabilize the log, place your hand only on sides of
log. Never place hand on the end between the log
and the splitting wedge.
5. Only one adult should stabilize the log and operate the
control handle, so the operator has full control over the
log and the splitting wedge.
IMPORTANT: Always operate on level ground, otherwise
fluid may be forced out through the air vent hole.
Control Handle
1. Move hydraulic valve control FORWARD to split wood.
See Figure 4-5.
2. Release the hydraulic valve control to NEUTRAL
position to stop the cylinder movement.
3. Move hydraulic valve control BACK to return the
cylinder to the locked position.
10
WARNING: Never remove partially split
wood from the wedge with your hands.
Fingers may become trapped between
split wood.