MTD 24BF550E229 Operator's Manual page 9

Set-Up
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the engine manual packed with your log splitter. Read the
instructions carefully.
WARNING!
Use extreme care when handling
gasoline. Gasoline is extremely flammable and the
vapors are explosive. Never fuel the machine
indoors or while the engine is hot or running.
NOTE: Your log splitter is shipped with motor oil in the engine.
You MUST check the oil level before operating. Be careful not
to overfill. Gasoline can be added to the engine when the log
splitter is in either the horizontal or vertical position. However,
there are less obstructions when the splitter is in the vertical
position.
Preparing the Log Splitter
1. Lubricate the beam area (where the splitting wedge will
slide) with engine oil. Do not use grease.
2. Remove the vented reservoir dipstick, which is located in
front of the engine on top of the reservoir tank. See Fig. 3-7.
Dipstick
Figure 3-7
NOTE: The log splitter has been shipped and primed with
hydraulic fluid in the reservoir tank. However, you MUST
check the fluid level before operating. If not completely
filled, proceed with the following steps:
3. Fill the reservoir tank with one of the following approved
hydraulic fluids; Dexron® III / Mercon® automatic
transmission fluid, Pro-Mix™ AW-32 Hydraulic Oil or a 10
Weight AW hydraulic oil.
WARNING!
Much of the original fluid has been
drawn into the cylinder and hoses. Make certain to
refill the reservoir to prevent damage to the
hydraulic pump.
4. Check the fluid level using the dipstick. See Fig. 3-7. Do not
overfill.
5. Replace the vented dipstick securely, tightening it until the
top of the threads are flush with top of the pipe.
6. Disconnect the spark plug and prime the pump by pulling
the recoil starter as far as it will go. Repeat approximately
10 times.
7. Reconnect the spark plug wire and start the engine
following the instructions in the Operation Section.
8. Use the control handle to engage the wedge to the farthest
extended position. Then retract the wedge.
9. Refill the tank as specified on the dipstick.
NOTE: Failure to refill the tank will void the splitter's
warranty.
10. Extend and retract the wedge 12 complete cycles to
remove any trapped air in the system (the system is "self-
bleeding").
11. Refill the reservoir within the range marked on the dipstick.
NOTE: Some fluid may overflow from the vent plug as
the system builds heat and the fluid expands and seeks a
balanced level.
Tire Pressure
The max recommended operating pressure is 30 psi. Under any
circumstances do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended
psi. Maintain equal pressure on all tires.
Reservoir
Tank
WARNING!
Excessive pressure when seating beads
may cause the tire/rim assembly to burst with force
sufficient to cause serious injury.
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