MTD Series 550 Operator's Manual page 17

9.
Refill the reservoir within range marked on the dipstick.
See Fig. 6-2.
Dipstick
Hydraulic Fluid
Only
Figure 6-2
10. Extend and retract the wedge 12 complete cycles to
remove trapped air in the system (the system is "self-
bleeding").
_ 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. Failure to refill the tank will void the
log splitter's warranty.
NOTE: Some fluid may overflow from the vent plug as the system
builds heat and the fluid expands and seeks a balanced level.
Do not operate the log splitter without the proper amount of
transmission fluid in the reservoir tank.
Maintain the fluid level within the range specified on the dipstick
at all times. When checking the fluid, always make sure to tighten
the dipstick until the top of the threads are flush with the top of
the pipe.
NOTE:Always dispose of any used hydraulic fluid and
engine oil at approved recycling centers only.
Contaminants in the fluid may damage the hydraulic
components. Flushing the reservoir tank and hoses with
kerosene whenever service is performed on the tank, hydraulic
pump or valve is recommended. Contact an authorized service
dealer.
Beamand Splitting Wedge
Lubricate top, sides and bottom of the beam and where it
comes into contact with the splitting wedge with engine
oil before each use.
Make certain to readjust the adjustment bolts so that the
wedge moves freely, but no excess space exists between
the wedge plate and the beam.
Adjustments
Raisingand Lowering the Beam
Use the control handle to run the wedge up and down the beam
6 to 8 times to circulate the hydraulic fluid, which will warm and
thin the fluid. Place the log splitter on a firm, level surface.
To raise the beam for vertical operation:
I. Pull out the horizontal beam lock on the tongue.
2. Pivot beam lock down to release the beam.
3. Move the beam to the vertical position. Secure it with the
beam lock on the reservoir tank assembly.
WARNING! Always use the log splitter in the
vertical position when splitting heavy logs.
To lower the beam:
1. Pull out the vertical beam lock on the reservoir tank.
2. Pivot beam lock down to release the beam.
3. Carefully pull back on the beam and lower it to the
horizontal position. The horizontal beam lock will lock
automatically.
WedgeAssembly
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.
1. Loosen the jam nuts on the two adjustment bolts on the
side of the wedge. See Fig. 6-3.
Figure 6-3
2. Turn the adjustment bolts in until snug and then back
them off slowly (approximately 1-1/2 turns) until the wedge
assembly will slide on the beam.
3. Re-tighten the jam nuts securely against the side of the
wedge to secure the adjustment bolts in this position.
SECTION 6 -- MAINTENANCE & ADJUSTMENTS
17