Brave MVH1334C Instruction Manual

Brave 34 T o n
Ver tical / Horizontal
Log Splitter
Model VH1334
Owner / Opera tor
and Safety Manual
MVH1334C
Model:
VH1334VN
VH1334GX

800-350-8739 1Brave
Initial Start-up
Instructions
❏ Read all assembly, operating, and safety instructions.
❏ Complete and return the warranty card to register your log
splitter.
❏ Write the serial number and date-of-purchase in this manual.
❏ Assemble the log splitter.
❏ Make sure the oil filter is properly installed. (See “Assembly
Procedure” section).
❏ Fill the hydraulic tank with the recommended type and quantity
of oil. (See “Start-Up Procedure” section).
❏ Fill the engine crankcase with the manufacturer’s
recommended type and quantity of oil. (See “Start-Up
Procedure” section).
❏ Fill the engine fuel tank with fresh, clean, lead-free gasoline.
(Do not mix oil with gasoline).
❏ Bleed the air out of the cylinder before starting the log splitter.
(See “Start-Up Procedure” section).
❏ Make sure the trailer hitch of the towing vehicle is equipped with
a 2 inch ball.
NOTE: Brave reserves the right to make technical changes for product improvement.
This manual may contain illustrations and photographs, for demonstration
purposes, which slightly deviate from the actual product design.
Serial Number
Date-of-Purchase
Please enter the serial number and purchase
date of your log splitter in the space provided.
Keep this manual for future reference.

Brave 2800-350-8739
Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Personal Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Worksite Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Operating Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Log Splitting Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Maintenance and Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Refueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Preventing Fires. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Assembly Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Required Tools. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Shipping List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Unpacking the Crate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Assembly Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Start-Up Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Operation – Horizontal Position. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Operation – Vertical Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Inspection and Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
General Maintenance Check (before operating) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Engine Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
S torage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Hydraulic Oil Change. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Hydraulic
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Replacement Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Hydraulic Oil Specifications (non-foaming) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Warranty Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Optional Attachments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Log Cradle, Log Dislodger, and Safety Flag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45

800-350-8739 3Brave
WARNING
To avoid personal injury or death, carefully read and understand all
instructions pertaining to the Brave log splitter.
Do not attempt to assemble, operate, or maintain our product without
fully understanding all our instructions and safety precautions. Do
not operate the log splitter unless you read and understand the
instructions and warnings in this manual. If any doubt or question
arises about the correct or safe method of performing anything found
in this or other Brave manuals, contact your Brave dealer or call the
Sales and Service representatives at our main headquarters. Proper
care is your responsibility.
WARNING
Accidents can often be avoided by being alert and recognizing potentially
hazardous situations. Any individuals operating, maintaining, or repairing
products manufactured by Brave should have the necessary training, skills,
and tools required to perform these functions properly and safely. The safety
information in this manual serves as a basic guide in an attempt to prevent
injury or death.
Brave cannot anticipate every possible circumstance that might involve a
potential hazard. The warnings in this manual and on the product itself are,
therefore, not all-inclusive. If tools, procedures, work methods, or operating
techniques that are not specifically mentioned by Brave are used, you must
satisfy yourself that they are safe for you and for others. Make sure the log
splitter will not be damaged or made unsafe by any operation, lubrication,
maintenance, or repair procedures that you choose.
DO NOT proceed if any doubt arises about the correct or safe method of
performing anything found in this or other Brave manuals. Seek out expert
assistance from a qualified person before continuing.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
WARNING
Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Brave 4800-350-8739
Introduction
This professional quality VH1334 Vertical/Horizontal Log Splitter is designed for tough
applications in both vertical and horizontal positions. With 34 tons of splitting force, a 15
second cycle time, and an 11 HP engine, the VH1334 will handle most of your log split-
ting needs. An attractive, powder-coated finish provides the finest protection available
and Brave’s rigid, quality-control and component testing help ensure years of productive,
reliable service. Since 1982, the name Brave has stood for quality and reliability when it
comes to log splitters and wood processing products.
Brave offers the finest log splitter on the market today!
✔ Rugged, heavy-duty construction for years of exceptional service.
✔ Ergonomic design, for use in vertical and horizontal operating positions.
✔ Rigid, quality-control during manufacturing ensures greater reliability.
✔ Factory testing of all major components and hydraulic tank.
✔ Powder-coated finish for the best appearance and weather protection.
✔ Year-round manufacturing, parts, and support.
For additional information, contact us at:
Brave
20195 S. Diamond Lk. Rd., STE 100
Rogers, MN 55374
Phone: [phone] (toll free)
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Web Site: www.braveproducts.com
Safety
The following is a list of safety rules you must follow in order to use your log
splitter safely.
Personal Protection
✔ To avoid personal injury or death, carefully read and understand all
instructions pertaining to the log splitter, including the engine manufacturer’s
operating and maintenance instruction manual.
✔ Always wear protective gear, such as safety
goggles, tight-fitting gloves without
drawstrings or loose cuffs, steel-toed shoes,
and a protective hearing device.
✔ To prevent injury, make sure all decals are attached to the log splitter and
AR
N
I are legible at all times.

800-350-8739 7Brave
Worksite Safety
✔ To avoid tripping, do not leave tools, logs, or other components laying around
the work area.
✘ NEVER operate your log splitter on slippery, wet, muddy, or icy surfaces. The
location you choose should be flat, dry, and free from any tall grass, brush,
or other interferences.
✘ NEVER operate the engine in an enclosed area. Exhaust fumes contain
carbon monoxide that can be deadly when inhaled. Make sure the area is
well ventilated.
✘ NEVER attempt to move your log splitter while the engine is running.
✘ NEVER leave the log splitter running unattended. Shut off engine if you are
going to be away from the log splitter even for a short period of time.
✘ NEVER attempt to move your log splitter over hilly or uneven terrain without a
tow vehicle.
✘ NEVER use your log splitter at night.
✔ ALWAYS operate your log splitter on dry, solid, level ground.
✔ ALWAYS block the wheels to prevent movement of the machine while in
operation.
Operating Safety
✔ ALLOW ONLY ONE (1) PERSON TO LOAD AND OPERATE THE LOG
SPLITTER.
✔ Allow only adults to operate the log splitter. No one under the age of 18 should
be allowed to operate the log splitter.
✔ Always keep bystanders, including children and pets, at least twenty-five (25)
feet away from the work area. Only the operator should stand near the
equipment and only within the safe operating area prescribed in this manual
(see the photos on safe and unsafe operating zones in the “Operation”
section).
✔ When the ram of the log splitter is in the return mode, keep your hands off the
machine — the log splitter is designed to automatically stop when the cylinder
is fully retracted.
✔ ALWAYS disconnect the spark plug wire when the log splitter is not in operation.
✘ Do not allow any person to operate the log splitter until they have read and
understood the safe operating instructions contained in this manual.

Brave 6800-350-8739
✘ Do not, under any circumstances, alter your log splitter. This equipment was
designed and engineered to be used in accordance with the operating
instructions. Altering the equipment, or using the equipment in such a way
as to circumvent its design capabilities and capacities, could result in
serious or fatal injury and WlLL VOID THE WARRANTY.
✘ Never operate, or allow anyone else to operate, this equipment while
under the influence of medication, drugs, or alcohol.
✘ Never wear loose clothing or jewelry that may get caught or become
entangled in the log splitter.
✘ NEVER place hands or feet between the log and splitting wedge or between
the log and ram during the forward or reverse stroke.
✘ DO NOT STRADDLE OR REACH ACROSS THE SPLITTING AREA WHEN
OPERATING THE LOG SPLITTER.
✘ Do not step over your log splitter when the engine is running because you may
trip or accidentally engage the ram.
✘ NEVER attempt to load your log splitter while the ram is in motion.
✘ Only use your hand to operate the control lever. NEVER use your foot, knee,
a rope, or any other extension device.
Log Splitting Safety
✔ Always keep your fingers away from any cracks that open in the log during the
splitting operation.
✔ ALWAYS make sure that both ends of the log you are splitting are cut as square
as possible. This will prevent the log from sliding out of position while under
pressure. Logs should be 24 inches or shorter in length.
✘ NEVER try to split two logs on top of each other.
✔ ALWAYS keep full attention on the splitting zone to prevent injury. Hazards
can arise from wood defects (knots, irregular shapes, etc).
✘ Never pile logs to be split in a manner that will cause you to reach across the
log splitter.
Maintenance and Repair
✔ Follow all safety rules, because most accidents involving the operation,
maintenance, or repair of products occur because the
assembler/owner/operator failed to observe basic safety rules or operating
instructions.
✔ ALWAYS inspect your log splitter before each use. Make sure all nuts, bolts,
screws, hydraulic fittings, hose clamps, etc. are securely tightened.

800-350-8739 7Brave
✔ ALWAYS check the oil level in the hydraulic oil tank and engine reservoir.
✘ NEVER operate your log splitter when it is in need of repair or is in poor
mechanical condition.
✘ NEVER tamper with the engine to run it at excessive speeds. The maximum
engine speed is preset and is within safety limits.
✘ NEVER make alterations to your log splitter in any manner. Such alterations
may cause the log splitter to become unsafe and WILL VOID THE WAR-
RANTY.
✘ NEVER attach a rope or extension to the control lever or add width or height to
the splitting wedge. Such ALTERATIONS may cause the log splitter to become
UNSAFE and WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
✘ ALWAYS clean the unit after each use. If possible, store the unit inside or cover
it completely, if stored outside.
Towing
✔ ALWAYS check before towing to make certain your log splitter is correctly and
securely attached to the towing vehicle. Be sure that the ball hitch you are
using is the proper size for the hitch coupler on the log splitter (see
“Specification” section). Be sure the safety chains are properly hooked to the
vehicle leaving enough slack for turning.
✔ ALWAYS allow for added length of the log splitter when turning, parking,
crossing intersections, and in all driving situations.
✔ ALWAYS be careful when backing up. You could jackknife your log splitter if
care is not taken.
✔ ALWAYS disconnect your log splitter from your towing vehicle before
attempting to use it.
✘ NEVER exceed 35 mph when towing your log splitter. Obey all state and local
regulations when towing on state and local roads and highways. Adjust your
speed for terrain and conditions, as needed. Be extra cautious when towing
over rough terrain, especially over a railroad crossing.
✘ NEVER tow your log splitter when there is fuel in the engine’s tank.
✘ NEVER allow anyone to sit or ride on your log splitter.
✘ NEVER carry any cargo or wood on your log splitter.

Brave 8800-350-8739
Refueling
✔ ONLY refuel the log splitter outdoors in a clear area, void of gas fumes or
spilled gasoline.
✔ ALWAYS use an approved fuel container to carry gasoline.
✔ ALWAYS replace the log splitter gas cap and the fuel container cap securely.
✔ If gasoline is spilled, move the machine away from the area of the spill and
avoid creating any source of ignition until the spilled gasoline has completely
evaporated.
✔ Take a class B fire extinguisher with you when operating the log splitter in
dry areas as a precautionary measure against possible flying sparks.
✔ Always store gasoline in an approved, tightly sealed container. Store the
container in a cool, dry place. Do not store the container in a house or near
any heating appliance.
✘ Do not smoke or have open flames when refueling the engine. Do
not spill fuel. If fuel should spill, quickly wipe up the spill and allow
the excess to evaporate before continuing. Make sure gasoline
soaked rags are properly disposed of.
✘ DO NOT fill the gas tank while the engine is hot or running. Allow time for the
engine to cool down before refueling.
Preventing Fires
✘ NEVER operate the log splitter near a flame or spark. Oil and gasoline are
flammable and can explode.
✘ NEVER smoke while operating or refueling the log splitter. Gasoline,
oil, and even gas fumes can explode.
Important Notice
The log splitter is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not
be used on or near any unimproved forest-covered, brush-covered, or grass-
covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark
arrester meeting local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it
should be maintained in effective working order by the owner and/or operator.

800-350-8739 9Brave
Assembly Instructions
Required Tools
• 10” crescent wrench
• Flat head screwdriver
• Two 1/2’’ open end wrenches
• Two 3/4” open end wrenches
• Funnel
• Pliers
• Band cutters
Shipping List
The following chart contains the list of parts that should be shipped as part of the VH1334
Log Splitter.
Qty Description ty Description
1Base Unit (engine)
1
Rail to Base Assembly
1Rail Unit (hydraulic cylinder)
1
2Bolt (1/2-13 x 1-1/2”)
2
1Oil Filter
2
2Lockwasher (1/2”)
2
Hitch Assembly Parts 2Nut (1/2-13)
2
1Hitch Coupler (2”)
2
Valve Assembly
2Bolt (1/2-13 x 3-1/2”)
2
1Control Lever (valve)
2
2Locknut (1/2-13)
2
1Chain Link
2
2Safety Chain
2
1Clevis Pin
2
2Safety Quick-Link 1Cotter Pin
2
Tongue and Front Leg Assembly Fender Assembly
1Tongue and Front Leg W eldment
1
2Fender
2
2Bolt (1/2-13 x 3-1/2”)
2
4Bolt (5/16-18 x 3/4”)
2
2Locknut (1/2-13)
2
4Locknut (5/16-18)
2
Rail Latch Assembly Jack Assembly
1Rail Rest W eldment
2
1Jack with Wheel
2
2Bolt (1/2-13 x 1-1/2”)
2
2Mounting S traps
2
2Lockwasher (1/2”)
2
4Bolt
2
2Nut (1/2-13)
2
4Locknut
2
1 On the pallet.
2 In cardboard box.

Brave 10 800-350-8739
Unpacking the Crate
1. Cut the metal banding and remove the top,
sides, ends, and protective plastic cover-
ing of the packing crate. Do not remove
the base unit or the rail assembly from the
bottom pallet at this time.
2. Carefully check the larger components on
the shipping pallet for damage. If the parts
are damaged call Brave at (815) 672-
8861.
3. Cut all the remaining banding straps, open
the cardboard box, and make sure all the
smaller parts have been shipped. The
chart in the “Shipping List” section
provides a complete list of all the parts
shipped with your log splitter. If any parts
are missing call Brave at (815)
672-8861.
NOTE: The contents of the cardboard box
contains the hitch assembly, two safety
chains, a safety quick-link, two fenders, valve
handle assembly, oil filter, and rail rest
weldment assembly. Also, included in the box
is a plastic bag of miscellaneous hardware
and a plastic bag with the valve handle, chain
link, clevis pin, and cotter pin.

800-350-8739 11 Brave
Assembly Procedure
CAUTION
Some component s are very heavy
and can be damaged if
mishandled. Also, to help
prevent per sonal injury, it is
strongly recom mended that two
(2) people work together to
uncrate
and assemble the log
splitter.
NOTE: This manual may contain illustrations
and photographs which slightly deviate from
the actual product design.
1. Remove and read all instructions
and safety recommendations before
assembling or operating this log
splitter.
2. Before removing the base unit from the
pallet, remove the tongue and front leg
assembly.
3. Attach wheeled Jack assembly
a. Place the tongue assembly in a position
that allows installation of the wheeled jack
assembly.
b. Determine which side of the log splitter to
place the jack handle (owner’s discretion).
Place the jack assembly with mounting
bracket against the tongue and install two
bolts through the top mounting holes, as
shown. Place the two mounting straps over
the bolts on the opposite side of the tongue
and loosely install the locknuts.
Front
(Hitchcouplerend)
Back
(Splittingend)
LeftSide

Brave 12 800-350-8739
c. Insert the two lower bolts through the
center mounting hole of the bracket and
the mounting strap. Loosely install the
lock- nuts.
d. Position the front edge of the bracket
approximately 2-1/2 inches from the rear
hitch coupler bolt hole, as shown.
e. Tighten all four locknuts using a torque
wrench and tighten to 25 foot pounds. Use
an alternating pattern to ensure they are
evenly tightened.
4. Install the tongue and front leg assembly
to the base unit using two 1/2-13 x 3-1/2
inch long hex head bolts and locknuts.
Tighten the nuts securely. Roll the
tongue/base unit off the pallet and lower
the front leg and lock it into position.
WARNING
Make sure the rail assembly is standing on
a flat, level area. Have a helper steady the
rail to prevent it from tipping over. The rail
assembly weighs approximately
300 pounds and will cause bodily injury if
it falls on someone.
5. Carefully stand the rail assembly in an
upright, vertical position.
NOTE: If also installing an optional
BR021180 Log Cradle, assemble it at this
time. The log cradle uses the first and third
holes.
VH34-06b

800-350-8739 13 Brave
6. Align the holes in the hinge bracket with
the holes in the rail assembly.
7. Bolt the base unit to the rail assembly
using two 1/2-13 x 1-1/2 inch long hex
head bolts, lockwashers, and nuts, as
shown. Hand tighten the nuts securely.
8. Bolt the rail rest weldment to the rail
assembly using two 1/2-13 x 1-1/2 inch
long hex head bolts, lockwashers, and
nuts, as shown. Hand tighten the nuts
securely.
Pull the latch mechanism outward and
rotate the handle to hold the lock pin in the
unlocked position.
9. Place one foot on the base plate of the leg
and carefully lower the rail assembly to a
horizontal position.
NOTE: Block the wheels to prevent the base
unit from moving.
Securely tighten the nuts holding the base
unit to the rail assembly (Step 7) and the nuts
holding the rail rest assembly (Step 8).
Front
(Hitchcouplerend)
Back(Splittingend)
2
½
Left
Side

Brave 14 800-350-8739
10. Link the ends of the safety chains
together with the safety quick-link and
tighten the link’s locknut securely with a
wrench.
11. Place the hitch over the attachment tube,
aligning the bolt holes, and insert the rear
1/2 x 3-1/2 inch bolt (A). Install and tight-
en the locknut.
Insert the end of the quick-link into the
front tube of the rail assembly and insert
a 1/2 x 3-1/2 inch bolt (B) through link and
hitch. Install and tighten the locknut.
12. Insert the chain link into the valve body,
as shown, with the pins facing upward.
13. Position the control lever, as shown, and
install it onto the chain link pin. Place
the chain link side plate on top of the two
pins.

800-350-8739
35
Brave
14. Secure the side plate by using a pair of
pliers to slide the retaining clip in place
onto the two pins.
Attach the control lever to the valve spool
using a 1/4” x 1” long clevis pin. Secure
the clevis pin with a cotter pin (bend the
ends of the cotter pin to hold it in place).
15. Attach the high-pressure hose from the
filter assembly to the top valve fitting.
Securely tighten the hose fitting.
NOTE: The high-pressure hose is self-seal-
ing and does not require any type of sealing
material. Tighten the fitting with a 10 inch
crescent wrench.
16. Attach the other high-pressure hose from
the bottom valve fitting to the pump. Coat
the threads of the fitting with a thread
sealing material and securely tighten the
hose fitting.
17. Remove the oil filter from the plastic
cover and apply a thin coat of oil to the
rubber seal. Screw the filter onto the
filter head, located near the hydraulic
tank. Once the filter makes contact with
the filter head, turn it an additional 3/4
turn. Hand-tighten only.

Brave 16 800-350-8739
18. Bolt the fenders onto the fender brackets
using two 5/16-18 x 3/4 inch long hex
head bolts and locknuts. The fenders are
interchangeable (left or right). Position
the fender over the tire with equal
spacing in the front and back.
19. The log splitter is now completely
assembled. Follow the “Start-Up
Procedure,” in the following section,
which adds oil to the engine and
hydraulic tank before trying to start
the engine.

800-350-8739 17 Brave
Start-up Procedure
Important Notice
Do not start the engine. Follow all of the instructions in the “Start-up
Pro
cedure” before operating the log splitter. Failure to follow this
recommendation will result in engine and hydraulic pump damage.
If this log splitter is purchased without an engine, the customer assumes all liabilities that
might arise from an engine that is incompatible with the design of the log splitter. Also,
any unauthorized changes or modifications to the log splitter will void all warranties.
IMPORTANT: The hydraulic system oil filter, for your log splitter, is not factory installed.
Make sure the filter is installed before attempting to fill the hydraulic tank or start the
engine. (Installation instructions are provided in the “Assembly Instructions” section and
are also printed on the side of the filter).
IMPORTANT: Before starting the engine, read the engine manufacturer’s operating and
maintenance instruction manual. If an engine manual was not supplied with the log split-
ter, it is your responsibility to obtain a manual. Start by contacting the store where you
purchased the log splitter. If they cannot help you, contact the engine manufacturer.
1. Fill the hydraulic tank with SAE 10W or AW 32 tractor hydraulic oil or automatic trans-
mission fluid, such as Dexron VI, Mercon V, or equivalent. The tank is full when the
oil level is approximately one inch from the top of the tank. Do not tighten the fill cap
at this time.
NOTE: The total hydraulic system oil capacity for this unit is 9.2 gallons.
2. Fill the engine’s crank case with the engine manufacturer’s recommended oil.
3. Lubricate the surface of slide rail with grease. This will help to prevent wear between
the slide plates and the slide rail.
4. Remove the spark plug wire from the engine. This prevents the engine from starting
until the hydraulic pump and cylinder are completely filled with oil. Make sure the
spark plug wire is held away from the spark plug with string or other nonconductive
material.
5. Push the valve control handle to the forward position (towards the front of the
cylinder) with one hand. Pull the engine starter cord (about 15 times) with the other
hand, until the cylinder piston moves forward. (Keep everything away from the
splitting wedge during this step).
NOTE: Extending the cylinder draws the hydraulic fluid through the system and expels
any trapped air in the cylinder.

Brave 18 800-350-8739
6. Check the fluid level in the hydraulic tank and add oil as needed.
WARNING
Be careful not to spill fuel when filling the engine. If fuel should spill,
quickly wipe off and allow the excess fuel to evaporate before
continuing. Fuel and fuel vapors are highly flammable and can cause
personal injury or even death when ignited.
Important Notice
If your log splitter is equipped with a factory installed engine, do not mix oil
with the gasoline. Using mixed oil/gasoline in a four cycle engine can cause
engine damage.
7. Fill the engine’s fuel tank with fresh, clean, lead-free automotive gasoline.
8. Attach the spark plug wire and start the engine per the manufacturer’s instructions.
9. With the engine running, push the valve control handle to the retract position and
retract the cylinder piston. The cylinder valve will automatically stop the cylinder from
retracting when it reaches the end of its stroke. Cycle the log splitter several times.
10. Again, check the fluid level in the hydraulic tank and add oil as needed. Replace
and tighten the fill cap.
11. Your log splitter is now ready to use.