Maintaining Your Log Splitter - MTD 5DM Series Operator's Manual

5
Maintaining
Your Log
Splitter
Figure 5-1
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 adjust-
ments or repairs.
Conditions that Will Void Warranty
1. Failure to maintain proper fluid level in reservoir
2. Changing the relief valve setting or pressure adjust-
ment of control valve without proper knowledge and
instruction from the factory
WARNING: Higher pressure could
cause the hoses to burst, cylinder
to rupture, and intense fluid to be
released, which could result in serious personal
injury.
3. Disassembling the pump
4. Use of incorrect hydraulic fluid
5. Lack of lubrication or improper lubrication of the
beam or unit
6. Excessive heating of the hydraulic system
7. Attempting to start unit in temperatures under 20°F
without pre-heating fluid in reservoir
8. Unattended leaks in hydraulic system
Hydraulic Fluid
• Check the hydraulic fluid level in the log splitter
reservoir tank before each use. Maintain fluid level to
just below the oil plug.
• Have the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir changed every
100 hours of operation. See your authorized service
dealer to have the hydraulic fluid changed.
Beam and Splitting Wedge
• Lubricate top and bottom of the beam (where it comes
into contact with the cylinder), before each use, with
engine oil.
Hose Clamps
(If Equipped)
• Check, before each use, if hose clamps on the suction
hose (attached to the side of the pump) are tight.
Check the hose clamps on the return hose at least
once a season.
Engine
Refer to the Engine maintenance section for all mainte-
nance instructions.
Changing the Belt
WARNING: Be sure to shut the engine
off, disconnect the spark plug wire(s)
and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting before
removing the belt.
The belt on your log splitter is subject to wear and should
be replaced if any signs of wear are present.
IMPORTANT: The V-belt found on your log splitter is a
non-clutching, constant tension belt. A substitute (non-
OEM) V-belt can be dangerous. For a proper working
machine, use factory approved belts.
To change or replace the belt on your log splitter, proceed
as follows:
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it against
the engine.
2. Drain the fuel tank or place a piece of plastic beneath
the cap to prevent gasoline leakage.
3. Carefully raise the rear of the log splitter up on blocks.
4. Remove the belt cover by removing the six self-tap-
ping screws that fasten it to the frame. See Figure 5-1.
1