Boss Industrial 3PT16T21 Quick reference guide

DUAL-ACTION
3-POINT HITCH
16 TON LOG SPLITTER
MODEL NO.
3PT16T21
Owner’s Manual
ASSEMBLY & OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Purchase Date_________Model NO. __________ _ Serial NO.______________
Dealer_____________________________________ ____________________
Boss Industrial, Inc. · 123 Ambassador Drive, Suite 123 · Naperville, IL 60540 · USA
Phone: (800) 780-BOSS (2677) · Fax [phone]
Rev. 0 (2016-12)
®

To The Owner
Thank You!
Thank you for purchasing a BOSS Log Splitter. It was carefully engineered to provide excellent performance when properly
operated and maintained.
Please read this entire manual prior to operating the equipment. It instructs you how to safely and easily set up, operate
and maintain your machine. Please be sure that you, and any other persons who will operate the machine, carefully follow
the recommended safety practices at all times. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or property damage.
All information in this manual is relative to the most recent product information available at the time of printing. Review
this manual frequently to familiarize yourself with the machine, its features and operation. Please be aware that this
Operator’s Manual may cover a range of product specifications for various models. Characteristics and features discussed
and/or illustrated in this manual may not be applicable to all models. We reserve the right to change product specifications,
designs and equipment without notice and without incurring obligation.
The 3-Point Hitch log splitter is designed for CAT 1 tractors that ideally produce the hydraulic flow of 8 – 11 GPM at the
pressure ratings of 2000 to 3000 PSI. DO NOT exceed 3400 PSI. The tractor hydraulic pressure ratings can be found at the
tractor manufacturer’s manual. If you have any problems or questions concerning the machine, phone an authorized service
dealer or contact us directly. Boss Industrial’s customer support phone number, website and mailing address can be found on
this page. We want to ensure your complete satisfaction at all times..
Throughout this manual, all references to right and left side of the machine are observed from the operating position
The tractor manufacturer is responsible for all tractor-related issues with regards to performance, power-rating,
specifications, warranty and service. Please refer to the tractor manufacturer’s Owner’s/Operator’s Manual for more
information.
Customer Support
Please do NOT return the machine to the retailer or dealer without first contacting the Customer Support
Department.
If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation, or maintenance of
this machine, you can seek help from the experts. Choose from the options below:
◊Visit us on the web at www.boss-industrial.com
◊Call a Customer Support Representative at [phone] or [phone]
◊Write to Boss Industrial, Inc., 123 Ambassador Drive, Suite 123, Naperville, IL 60540

Table of Contents
Page(s)
Important Safety Information..................................................................................................................... 1-9
General Safety Alert Signals ....................................................................................................... 1
Safety Decals ............................................................................................................................... 2
Safety Symbols ............................................................................................................................ 3
Training ....................................................................................................................................... 4
Pre-operation ............................................................................................................................... 5
Operation ....................................................................................................................................... 6
Operator Zone............................................................................................................................... 7
Maintenance Safety...................................................................................................................... 8
Transportation Safety....................................................................................................................... 9
Assembly & Set-up Instructions ............................................................................................................... 10-17
Unpacking the Container................................................................................................................. 10
Assembling and Set-up..................................................................................................................... 12-15
Know Your Tractor, Know Controls & Features, Lubricate Beam and Wedge..................................16
Operation Instructions ............................................................................................................................... 17-19
Using Control Handle.................................................................................................................... 17
Splitting the Wood ......................................................................................................................... 18
Split Large Logs, Operation Tips..................................................................................................... 19
Maintenance & Adjustments........................................................................................................................ 20
Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................................... 21
Specifications ............................................................................................................................................. 22
Warranty Service Information..................................................................................................................... 23

WARNING: Read and thoroughly understand all instructions in this manual and on safety decals
before assembling or operating this log splitter. Failure to do so may cause serious injury or death.
Do not allow anyone to operate this log splitter who has not read this manual. As with all power
equipment, a log splitter can be dangerous if assembled or used improperly. Do not operate this log
splitter if you have any questions concerning safe operation. To get answers to any questions, call
our customer service department at 1-800-780-2677.
Si no entiende ingles, se prefiere que busque alguien que interprete las instrucciones para usted.
This SAFETY ALERT SYMBOL identifies important safety messages in this manual.
Failure to follow this important safety information may result in serious injury or death.
DANGER! This machine was built to be operated according to the safe operation practices in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can
result in serious injury. This machine is capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing debris.
Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
The following signal words and meanings are intended to explain the levels of risk associated with this product.
DANGER indicates a hazardous situation which, if not followed,
will result in serious injury or death.
WARNING indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in serious injury or death.
CAUTION indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE is important information about the proper use of
your machine. Failure to follow this instruction could result
in damage to your machine or property.
Page 1

Part #: 410-161
Page 2
Make sure that all safety warning decals are in good condition and readable. Always replace missing or defaced decals.
Contact BOSS at 1-800-780-2677 for replacement decals.
SAFETY DECALS
Part #: 410-233
Part #: 410-235
Part #: 410-545

This page depicts and describes safety symbols that may appear on this product. Read, understand, and follow all
instructions on the machine before attempting to assemble and operate.
READ THE OPERATOR’S MANUAL(S)
Read, understand, and follow all instructions in the manual(s) before attempting to
assemble and operate.
FACE PROTECTION
Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses with side shields, earplugs and a face shield
when operating this product.
WARNING— MOVING WEDGE
Keep hands away from wedge, moving part, end plate, and partially split wood.
BYSTANDERS
Keep bystanders, helpers and children at least 25 feet away.
SINGLE OPERATOR
Only one person should operate the machine at a time. The adult who loads and stabilizes
the log must be the person who operates control handle.
WARNING— PRESSURIZED FLUID
Never check for hose leaks with your hands. High pressure fluid can escape through a pin
hole leak and cause serious injury by puncturing the skin and causing blood poisoning.
WEAR GLOVES
Always wear nonslip, heavy-duty protective gloves when operating this product.
WEAR SAFETY FOOTWEAR
Always wear nonslip steel-toed safety footwear when operating this product.
WARNING— CARBON MONOXIDE
Never run the splitter on tractor indoors or in a poorly ventilated area. Tractor engine
exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and deadly gas.
SAFETY SYMBOLS
Symbol Description
WARNING! Your Responsibility—Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read,
understand and follow the warnings and instructions in this manual and on the machine.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS!
Page 3

TRAINING
1. Read, understand, and follow all instructions on the machine and in the manual(s) before attempting to assemble and
operate. Keep this manual in a safe place for future and regular reference and for ordering replacement parts.
2. Be familiar with all controls and their proper operation. Know how to stop the machine and disengage them quickly.
3. Never allow children under 18 years of age to operate this machine. Children 16 and over should read and
understand the instructions and safe operation practices in this manual and on the machine and be trained and
supervised by an adult.
4. Never allow adults to operate this machine without proper instruction.
5. Many accidents occur when more than one person operates the machine. No helper is allowed to assist in stacking
logs.
6. Keep bystanders, pets, and children at least 25 feet from the machine while it is in operation. Be alert and turn the
Tractor off if children or pets enter the work area.
7. Never allow anyone to ride on this machine.
8. Never transport cargo on this machine.
9. Hydraulic log splitters develop high fluid pressures during operation. Fluid escaping through a pin hole opening can
penetrate your skin and cause blood poisoning, gangrene, or death. Give attention to the following instructions at all
times:
a. Do not check for leaks with your hand.
b. Do not operate machine with frayed, kinked, cracked, or damaged hoses, fittings, or tubing.
c. Stop the tractor engine and relieve hydraulic system pressure by cycling the valve control lever from forward to
reverse several times while tractor engine is not running; returning to neutral before repairing or adjusting fittings,
hoses, tubing, or other system components.
d. Do not adjust the pressure settings of the valve.
10. Leaks can be detected by passing cardboard or wood, while wearing protective gloves and safety glasses, over the
suspected area. Look for discoloration of cardboard or wood.
11. If injured by escaping fluid, see a doctor immediately. Serious infection or reaction can develop if proper medical
treatment is not administered immediately.
12. Keep the operator zone and adjacent area clear for safe, secure footing.
13. Do not operate the log splitter on tractor in an enclosed area. Exhaust fumes from the tractor engine contains carbon
monoxide which can be harmful or deadly when inhaled.
NEVER use this log splitter for any purpose other than
splitting wood. It is designed for this use only. Any other
use can cause serious injury or death.
Page 4

Page 3
1. BEFORE operating this log splitter, make sure that you wear safety gear such as goggles or safety glasses,
steel toed shoes and tight fitting gloves (without loose cuffs or draw strings). Always wear a protective hearing
device when operating this log splitter.
2. NEVER wear loose clothing or jewelry that can be caught by moving parts of the log splitter. Keep clothing and
hair away from all moving parts when operating this log splitter.
3. Check all safety guards and shields to be sure they are in the proper position. Never operate with safety guards,
shields, or other protective features removed.
4. Make sure machine is on a flat, dry, solid ground before operating.
5. ALWAYS operate your log splitter attached on the Tractor in an open area. (Exhaust fumes contain carbon
monoxide which can be deadly when inhaled.)
6. ALWAYS operate your log splitter in daylight or under good artificial light.
7. ALWAYS operate your log splitter on level ground. (Operating on a slope could cause the log splitter to roll over
or logs to fall off.)
8. ALWAYS keep the work area clean. Remove split wood around the log splitter immediately so that you don’t
stumble over it.
9. Check all nuts, bolts and hydraulic fittings are tight to be sure the equipment is in a safe working condition.
10.Both ends of the log should be cut as square as possible to help prevent the log from riding out of the splitter
during operation. Do not split logs greater than 20 inches in length. Uneven logs (e.g. knotted, curved, etc.)
should not be used.
11.Do not allow familiarity with tools to make you careless. Remember that a careless fraction of a second is
sufficient to inflict serious injury.
WARNING:
The operation of any power tool can result in foreign objects being thrown into your eyes, which
can result in
severe eye damage. Before beginning power tool operation, always wear safety goggles
or s
a f e t y glasses with side shields and, when needed, wear a full face shield and earplugs. We
recommend a Wide Vision Safety Mask for use over
eyeglasses or standard safety glasses with side
shields. Always use eye protection which is marked to comply with ANSIZ87.1.
INTENDED USE
PRE-OPERATION
Page 5

OPERATION
1. BEFORE starting this machine, review the safe instructions in this manual and Tractor Owner’s Manual. Failure to
follow these rules may result in serious injury to the operator or bystanders.
2. NEVER leave this machine unattended with the tractor engine running.
3. DO NOT operate machine while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
4. NEVER allow anyone to operate this machine without proper instruction.
5. ALWAYS operate this machine with all safety equipment in place and working. Make sure all controls are operating
properly for safe operation.
6. When loading a log, always place your hands on the side of the log, not on the ends, and never use your foot to help
stabilize a log. Failure to do so may result in crushed or amputated fingers, toes, hand, or foot.
7. NEVER use your foot, a rope or any extension device to operate the control lever on the valve. Only use hand.
8. Use only your right hand to operate the control handle.
WARNING! When stabilizing log with left hand, remove your hand when the wedge just contacts the log or serious
injury may occur.
9. For logs which are not cut square, the least square end of the log should be placed toward the beam and wedge, and
the square end placed toward the end plate.
10. NEVER place hands or feet between the log and splitting wedge during forward or reverse stroke as this could result
in serious injury or death.NEVER attempt to load the log splitter when the ram or wedge is in motion.
11. ALWAYS keep fingers away from any cracks that open in the log while splitting. They can quickly close and pinch or
amputate your fingers.
12. Keep your work area clean. Immediately remove split wood around the machine so you do not stumble over it.
13. NEVER straddle or step over the log splitter during operation.
14. NEVER reach or bend over the log splitter to pick up a log.
15. NEVER try to split two logs on top of each other. NEVER try to cross split a log.
16. NEVER operate your log splitter when it is in poor mechanical condition or in need of repair.
WARNING:
The 3-Point Hitch Log Splitter is designed for tractors with pressure ratings that are under 3700 PSI.
Exceeding the recommended pressure rating will void the warranty and damage the equipment.
Page 6

Page 3
ONLY operate the log splitter from the operator zone as shown in the diagrams below. The operator has the safest
and most efficient access to the control valve and the beam in this location. Operating the log splitter in another
location can result in serious injury or death. See FIGURE 1.
GENERAL REPAIR
OPERATOR ZONE
Operator Zone
(FIGURE 1).
Page 7
Operator Zone

Page 5
1. Before cleaning, inspecting or any maintenance procedure on the machine, stop the tractor engine, set the brake and
remove the key, disengage hydraulic hoses, wait 10 minutes to allow all parts to cool down.
NEVER perform any service or repair on your log splitter without stopping the tractor engine.
2. Stop the tractor and relieve hydraulic system pressure by cycling the valve control lever from forward to reverse several
times; returning to neutral before repairing or adjusting fittings, hoses, tubing, or other system components.
3. ALWAYS perform all recommended maintenance procedures before using your log splitter.
4. ALWAYS periodically check that all nuts, bolts, screws, hydraulic fittings and hose clamps are tight to be sure equipment
is in safe working condition.
5. ALWAYS replace all damaged or worn parts immediatelywith original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only.
Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and
compromise safety.
6. The hydraulic system of your log splitter requires careful inspection along with the mechanical parts. Be sure to replace
frayed, kinked, cracked or otherwise damaged hydraulic hoses or hydraulic components.
7. NEVER check for leaks of hydraulic fluid with your hand. Fluid escaping from a small hole can be almost invisible.
Escaping fluid under pressure can have sufficient force to penetrate skin causing SERIOUS INJURY or even
DEATH. Leaks can be safely detected by passing a piece of cardboard over the suspected leak and looking for
discoloration.
8. NEVER adjust the hydraulic valve. The pressure relief valve on your log splitter is preset at the factory. Only a qualified
service technician should perform this adjustment.
9. ALWAYS seek professional medical attention immediately if injured by escaping hydraulic fluid. Serious infection or
reaction can develop if proper medical treatment is not administered immediately.
MAINTENANCE SAFETY
NEVER alter your log splitter in any manner. Such alterations may cause your log
splitter to be unsafe and will void the warranty.
Page 8

Page 6
TRANSPORTATION SAFETY
1. ALWAYS lift the Splitter to the full height of the 3-Point Hitch range carefully for safely transport.
2. ALWAYS shut off your tractor hydraulic controls, disengage hydraulic hoses, and set your splitter controls to the
“Neutral” position before moving the log splitter on your tractor. Failure to do so may lead to improper performance and
compromise safety.
3. NEVER carry any cargo or wood on your log splitter when moving around on your tractor.
4. NEVER allow anyone to sit or ride on your log splitter.
5. ALWAYS check before moving to make sure that the log splitter is correctly and securely attached to the three point
hitches, and the hydraulic hoses to the pressure ports of tractor pump.
6. ALWAYS be careful when backing up with your log splitter behind your tractor. It could jackknife.
7. NEVER attempt to move this machine on your tractor over hilly or uneven terrain without a tow vehicle or adequate
help.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Page 9

Page 7
WARNING! Use extreme caution unpacking this machine. Some components are very heavy and will require
additional people or mechanical handling equipment.
NOTE: All references in this manual to the left or right side and front or back of the log splitter are from the operating
position only. Exceptions, if any, will be specified.
Unpacking tools needed:
1. Wrench 8mm
2. Scissors or knife
Step 1: Use a 8mm wrench to remove the four bolts on the metal crate, put aside the crate top, then remove the
cardboard box. See FIGURE 2.
Step 2: Remove all loose parts included in the container, e.g. operator’s manual, log trays, mounting brackets, axel, and
hardware kits.
Step 3: . Remove the beam assembly on the crate bottom.
NOTE:DO NOT remove the strap securing the hydraulic hoses to the beam at this time, until you do all the assembly
procedures.
If any parts are damaged or missing, please call our customer service department at 1-800-780-2677 for
assistance.
NOTE:DO NOT discard the packing materials until you have carefully inspected and satisfactorily operated the tool.
UNPACKING THE CONTAINER
ASSEMBLY & SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS
Crate Top
Log Trays x 2 Sets
Cardboard box
Hex Head Bolt
x 4 PCS
Crate Bottom
Beam Assembly
(FIGURE 2)
Page 10

Page 8
Holes for Hitch Pin
End Plate
NOTE: Due to the weight / size of the log splitter, and coordination needed on the tractor controls to install the 3-Point
Hitch log splitter to the tractor, it’s recommended that two or more adults be present to assist with the assembling and
set-up.
Get your tractor prepared for assembly:
1. This 3-Point Hitch log splitter is designed for tractors with pressure ratings of 2000 to 3000 PSI. DO NOT exceed 3400
PSI (Category 1). Review the Tractor Owner’s Manual to make sure your tractor meets the specifications of the 3-Point
Hitch log splitter.
2. Check if the three Hitch Pin are available for your log splitter.
3. Different tractor needs different types and sizes of Tractor Hydraulic Connectors. For this reason, the Splitter Hoses do
not have Connectors on the ends. You need to prepare the correct type / size connectors for your application. The
Splitter Hose Threads are 1 / 2” NTP Male.
Assembling tools needed:
1. Wrench 16, 17, 18, 19mm one each
2. Allen wrench 6mm x 1
STEP 1: Install the 3-Point Hitch Side Mounting Brackets. See FIGURE 4.
1. Block the beam assembly off the ground. Two or more people are recommended to assist with raising the beam
as it is very heavy. Lifting tools as hoist, crane, jack, etc. are strongly recommended. Be sure to keep hands
away from any possible pinch points.
2. Remove the four sets of M12 Bolts, Washers, and Lock nuts from both sides of the front end of the beam.
3. Align the two middle holes on both Side Mounting Brackets with the holes on the Beam where the bolts were
removed from, and then loosely secure with the M12 hardware just removed.
4. Align the 3 upper holes on both 3PT Hitch Mounting Brackets with the corresponding holes on both sides of End
Plate Bracket, and then loosely secure the 6 sets of M10 hardware in the hardware kit # 21 attached.
5. Make sure the Hitch Pin moves freely in its holes, then tighten all bolts with wrenches.
ASSEMBLY & SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS
(FIGURE 4)
ASSEMBLY AND SET-UP
Page 11

Page 9
REF. NO. DECSRIPTION QTY.
1
Beam assembly
1
2
Side mounting bracket (L &R)
2
3
Hardware mounted on the beam, including:
3-1
Hex head bolt / M12 x 35
4
3-2
Flat washer / M12
4
3-3
Lock nut /M12
4
4
Hardware kit # 21,including:
4-1
Hex head bolt / M10 x 35
6
4-2
Flat washer / M10
12
4-3
Lock nut / M10
6
STEP 2: Install the Frame Axle.
1. Position the Frame Axel with its mounting ears outside of the bottom of both Side Mounting Brackets,
and secure the Axel with M10 hardware in the hardware kit # 22 attached then, then tighten using a 16mm wrench
on the bolts, and a 17mm wrench on the lock nuts. See FIGURE 5.
REF. NO. DECSRIPTION QTY.
5
Frame Axle
1
6
Hardware kit #22, including:
6-1
Hex head bolt / M10 x 35
4
6-2
Flat washer / M10
8
6-3
Lock nut / M10
4
(FIGURE 5)
Page 12

Page 10
STEP 3: Install the Log Trays and Control Handle Lever. See FIGURE 6.
1. Remove the eight sets of M8 Bolts, and Washers from the four tabs on the beam.
2. Position the log tray frame onto the tabs as shown, and secure with the M8 hardware just removed, then tighten using
the Allen Wrench 6mm.
3. Screw the control handle lever into its linkage part on top of the valve.
REF. NO. DECSRIPTION QTY.
7
Log Tray
2
8
Hardware mounted on the tabs of beam, including:
8-1
Inner Hex head bolt / M8 x 20
8
8-2
Spring washer / M8
8
8-3
Flat washer / M8
8
9
Control Handle Lever
1
(FIGURE 6)
Page 13

Page 11
STEP 5: Attach the log splitter to the Tractor. See FIGURE 7.
1. Position the splitter behind the three point hitch arms, and adjust the Lower Draft Arms to the Splitter Hookup Pins at
both ends of the Axle.
2. Slide the Lower Draft Arms onto the Splitter Hookup Pins, and secure with the Spring Clips.
3. Position the Upper Draft Arm inside the End Plate bracket; slide the Tractor Hitch Pin through the holes of the
bracket and Upper Draft Arms as shown, and then secure with the Spring Clip.
4. Lift the log splitter off the ground using the Tractor 3-Point Hitch.
(FIGURE 7)
Page 14
Upper Draft Arm
Lower Draft Arm
Hitch
Pin
Lower Draft Arm
Splitter
Hookup Pin
Spring
Clip

Page 12
STEP 6: Attach both hoses to the Tractor. See FIGURE 8.
1. Cut the strap securing the Hoses to the Beam to release both hoses.
2. Remove Protective Caps from the open end of both hoses, and screw on the Connectors to both hoses.
NOTE: Different tractor needs different types and sizes of Tractor Hydraulic Connectors. For this reason, the Splitter
Hoses do not have Connectors on the ends. You need to prepare the correct type / size connectors for your
application. The Splitter Hose Threads are 1 / 2” NTP Male.
3. Route the hoses down underneath the Beam to the front end through the 3-Point Hitch Mounting Frame, secure two
hoses to the Frame Axel with a cable tie, and plug the connectors into the Tractor Pump ports.
NOTE: Each hose has an Arrow Label to show the oil inlet / return direction. Refer to your Tractor Owner’s Manual,
or contact tractor supplier before attaching the connectors to tractor pump. If the hoses are attached to the wrong
ports of the Tractor Pump, the splitter wedge will run in the opposite to the direction the control handle lever moved.
Simply swap the hoses to the correct ports.
(FIGURE8)
Connector
Tractor Pump Port
Page 15
Oil Inlet Hose
Oil Return Hose
Oil Inlet Hose

Page 13
Refer to the Tractor Owner’s manual for instructions on how to start and stop the Tractor engine, and how to set throttle
and power the hydraulics to the Splitter.
Tractor Engine Controls
See the tractor Owner’s Manual for the location and
function of the controls on the engine.
End Plate
The end plate holds the log in place while the wedge
splits the log.
Control Handle
The control handle has three positions; Forward, Neutral
and Reverse. See the Operation section for instructions.
Log Tray
The log tray is designed to catch the log after it is
split.
2-blade Splitting Wedge
The wedge is used to split the wood.
Lubricate the beam area (where the splitting wedge will slide) with engine oil. Do not use grease. See FIGURE 9.
ASSEMBLY & SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS
KNOW CONTROLS & FEATURES
KNOW YOUR TRACTOR
(FIGURE 9)
Cylinder
Log Tray
End Plate
Beam
2-blade Splitting Wedge
Control Handle
LUBRICATE BEAM AND WEDGE
Page 16
Oil Inlet Hose
Oil Return Hose
End Plate
3-Point Hitch
Mounting Frame

Page 14
The control handle has three positions. See FIGURE 10.
• FORWARD — To split wood in Forward direction. Move the control handle to the FORWARD position to move wedge
forward to split the log.
• NEUTRAL — To stop wedge. The control handle will return to the NEUTRAL position as soon as the handle is released,
and the wedge stops moving at any point during splitting.
• REVERSE — To split another wood in Reverse direction. Move the control handle to the REVERSE position to move the
wedge backward to split another log.
NOTE: The control handle will return to the NEUTRAL position as soon as the handle is released, and the wedge stops
moving backward..
WARNING! If the control handle on your log splitter is not functioning properly, STOP USE IMMEDIATELY
and contact an authorized service dealer.
WARNING! Do not attempt to service, repair or replace control valve. Contact an authorized service dealer.
WARNING! Do not attempt to adjust or modify the control valve or the hydraulic system from its original
settings or manufacturer in any way.
USING CONTROL HANDLE
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
(FIGURE10)
Neutral
Reverse
Forward
Page 17