MTD 500 Series Operator's Manual page 9

For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983 For Parts Call 606-678-9623 or 606-561-4983
Control Handle
The control handle has three positions. See Figure 4-2.
• FORWARD: Move control handle FORWARD or
DOWN to move wedge to split wood.
NOTE: Control handle will return to neutral position as
soon as handle is released.(Forward Position only)
• NEUTRAL: Release the control handle or move the
lever to neutral position to stop the wedge movement.
• REVERSE: Move control handle BACK or UP to return
the wedge toward the cylinder. The control handle
stays in the return (Reverse) position and returns to
neutral automatically when fully retracted.
NOTE: Reverse position may also be operated back to
neutral position manually, if necessary.
Stopping Engine
1. Move throttle control (if equipped) to STOP or OFF
position.
2. Turn off the engine switch, if so equipped.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire and ground against the
engine to prevent unintended starting.
WARNING: Read, understand, and
follow all instructions and warnings on
the machine and in this manual before
operating.
WARNING: Wear leather work gloves,
safety shoes, ear protection, and safety
glasses when operating a log splitter.
Ensure safe footing.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
1. Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed
in the engine manual packed with your log splitter.
Read instructions carefully.
WARNING: Use extreme care when han-
dling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Never fuel machine indoors or while the
engine is hot or running.
IMPORTANT: Your log splitter may be shipped with motor
oil in the engine. You MUST check the oil level before
operating. Be careful not to overfill.
NOTE: 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 unit is in
the vertical position.
Starting Engine
1. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire is
fastened securely over metal tip of the spark plug.
2. Turn fuel valve (or engine switch), if equipped, to the
ON position.
3. Move choke lever, if equipped, to CHOKE position.
4. If the engine is equipped with a primer, follow
instructions in the engine manual to prime it.
5. Turn the throttle control (if equipped) to the FAST
position.
6. Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope will
pull slightly harder at this point).
7. Pull rope with a rapid, full arm stroke. Keep firm grip
on starter handle. Let rope rewind slowly. Repeat
until engine cranks.
8. After engine starts, move choke lever (if equipped)
to OFF position. Place throttle lever to the speed
desired.
9. In cold weather, run wedge up or down beam 6 to 8
times to circulate the hydraulic fluid.

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Neutral
To split wood
Figure 4-
WARNING: When starting a warm
engine, the muffler and surrounding
areas are hot and can cause a burn.
Do not touch.
4
To return
Operating
wedge
Your Log
To stop
Splitter
wedge
WARNING
Read, understand, and
follow all instructions
and warnings on the
machine and in this
manual before operat-
ing.
Wear leather work
gloves, safety shoes,
ear protection, and
safety glasses when
operating a log splitter.
Ensure safe footing.
Use extreme care when
handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
Never fuel machine
indoors or while the
engine is hot or run-
ning.
When starting a warm
engine, the muffler and
surrounding areas are
hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.