Brave VH0622 Instruction Manual

Owner / Operator
and Safety Manual
See
initial start-up
instructions on page one
BBrraavvee2222aanndd2266TToonn
Vertical / Horizontal
Log Splitters
MMooddeellVVHH00662222
MMooddeellVVHH00662266
Photos show Model VH0626

❏❏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.
❏❏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.
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.
NOTE: Brave Products 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.
Initial Start-Up Instructions

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Safety Alert Symbol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Personal Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Worksite Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Operating Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Log Splitting Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Maintenance and Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Refueling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Preventing Fires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Assembly Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Required Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Shipping List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Unpacking the Crate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Assembly Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Start-Up Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Inspection and Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
General Maintenance Check (before operating) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Engine Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Hydraulic Oil Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Mechanical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Hydraulic Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Replacement Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Hydraulic Oil Specifications (non foaming) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Decals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Optional Attachments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Log Cradle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Log Dislodger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Safety Flag Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Warranty Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
800-350-8739 1Brave Products, Inc.
Contents

These professional quality VH0622 and VH0626 Vertical/Horizontal Log Splitters are
designed for tough applications in both vertical and horizontal positions. With 22 or 26 tons
of splitting force, a 14 second cycle time, and a rugged, horizontal shaft engine, the VH0622
or VH0626 will handle most of your log splitting 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 Products 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 Products, Inc.
410 W. Broadway Ave.
P.O. Box 577
Streator, Illinois 61364-0577
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Web Site: www. braveproducts.com
Brave Products, Inc. 2800-350-8739
Introduction

Safety Alert Symbol
The safety alert symbol is used to identify safety information about hazards that can
result in personal injury.
A signal word (WARNING or CAUTION) is used with the alert symbol to indicate the like-
lihood and the potential severity of injury. In addition, a hazard symbol may be used to
represent the type of hazard.
WARNING indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, could result in death or
serious injury.
CAUTION indicates a hazard which, if not avoided, might result in minor or
moderate injury.
IMPORTANT NOTICE indicates a situation that could result in damage to the log
splitter, cylinder, or engine.
The following is a list of safety rules you must follow in order to use your log split-
ter safely.
General
To avoid personal injury or death, carefully read and understand all instructions
pertaining to the Brave Products’ log splitter.
Do not attempt to 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 any-
thing found in this or other Brave Products’ manuals, contact your Brave Prod-
ucts’ dealer or call the Sales and Service representatives at our main head-
quarters. Proper care is your responsibility.
Accidents can often be avoided by being alert and recognizing potentially haz-
ardous situations. Any individuals operating, maintaining, or repairing products
manufactured by Brave Products should have the necessary training, skills, and
tools required to perform these functions properly and safely. The safety infor-
mation in this manual serves as a basic guide in an attempt to prevent injury or
death.
Brave Products 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 Products 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, lubri-
cation, maintenance, or repair procedures that you choose.
800-350-8739 3Brave Products, Inc.
Safety

DO NOT proceed if any doubt arises about the correct or safe method of performing any-
thing found in this or other Brave Products’ manuals. Seek out expert assistance from a
qualified person before continuing.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65
Engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Personal Protection
✔To avoid personal injury or death, carefully read and understand all instruc-
tions pertaining to the log splitter, including the engine manufacturer’s oper-
ating and maintenance instruction manual.
✔Always wear protective gear, such as safety
goggles, tight-fitting gloves without draw
strings 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
are legible at all times.
Worksite Safety
✔To avoid tripping, do not leave tools, logs, or other components laying around
in 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 car-
bon monoxide which can be deadly when inhaled. Make sure the area is well
ventilated.
✘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.
N
I
NG
AR
Brave Products, Inc. 4800-350-8739
Safety

Operating Safety
✔ALLOW ONLY ONE (1) PERSON TO LOAD AND OPERATE THE LOG SPLIT-
TER.
✔Allow only adults to operate the log splitter - no one under the age of 18.
✔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 equip-
ment 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.
✘Do not, under any circumstances, alter your log splitter. This equipment was
designed and engineered to be used in accordance with the operating instruc-
tions. Altering the equipment, or using the equipment in such a way as to cir-
cumvent 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 entan-
gled in the log splitter.
✘NEVER place hands or feet between log and splitting wedge or between 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.
800-350-8739 5Brave Products, Inc.
Safety

✔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.
✘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, main-
tenance, 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.
✔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 WARRANTY.
✘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
✔Raise the support leg to the highest position when 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 “Specifi-
cation” 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, cross-
ing 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 attempt-
ing to use it.
✘NEVER exceed 35 m.p.h. 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 tow-
ing over rough terrain, especially over a railroad crossing.
Brave Products, Inc. 6800-350-8739
Safety

✘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.
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 con-
tainer 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 7Brave Products, Inc.
Safety

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 VH0622
and VH0626 Log Splitter.
Brave Products, Inc. 8800-350-8739
Qty Description
1 Base Unit (engine)1
1 Rail Unit (hydraulic cylinder)1
Hitch Assembly Parts
1 Hitch Assembly (2 inch)2
2 Bolts (1/2-13 x 3 inch)2
2 Locknuts (1/2-13)2
2 Safety Chains2
1 Safety Quick-Link
Support Leg Assembly
1 Support Leg1
1 Bolt (1/2-13 x 4-1/2 inch)2
1 Locknut (1/2-13)2
1 Hitch Pin2
1 Clip, Hair Pin2
Qty Description
Rail to Base Assembly
1 Bolt (1/2-13 x 4-1/2 inch)2
1 Locknut (1/2-13)2
1 Hitch Pin2
1 Clip, Hair Pin2
Valve Assembly
1 Control Lever (valve)2
1 Chain Link2
1 Clevis Pin2
1 Cotter Pin2
Fender Assembly (Model VH0626 only)
2 Fenders2
1 Fender Bracket, Left-Hand2
1 Fender Bracket, Right-Hand2
8 Bolts (5/16-18 x 3/4 inch)2
8 Locknuts (5/16-18)2
1On the pallet.
2In cardboard box.
Assembly Instructions

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 unband or
remove the base unit or the rail unit from
the bottom pallet at this time.
2. Without cutting the banding straps, care-
fully check the larger components on the
crate for shipping damage. If the parts are
damaged call Brave Products at (800)
350-8739.
3. 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 Products at [phone].
NOTE: The contents of the cardboard box includes the hitch assembly, valve handle,
two safety chains, and one bag of hardware, as shown. The contents will also include
the fenders and mounting brackets for model VH0626 only.
Model VH0622 Model VH0626
800-350-8739 9Brave Products, Inc.
Assembly Instructions

Assembly Procedure
Some components are very heavy and can be damaged if mishandled. To
help prevent personal injury, it is strongly recommended that two (2) peo-
ple work together to uncrate and assemble the log splitter.
1. Remove and read all instructions and safety recommendations before assembling or
operating this log splitter.
The rail assembly is bolted to the pallet with a lag screw. The rail is top heavy
and can tip over when it is unbolted, which could cause personal injury. Make
sure the pallet is on a flat, level surface before removing the bolt.
2. Cut the bands holding the base unit and
rail assembly onto the pallet. Before
removing the base unit from the pallet,
install the front leg assembly. Align the top
rear hole in front leg with the rear top hole
in the base unit and install a 1/2-13 x 4-1/2
inch long hex head bolt through the holes.
Install and tighten the locknut.
NOTE: To prevent the front leg from binding,
do not overtighten the locknut.
3. Place the front leg in the 45 degree down
position and install the hitch pin through
the lower front hole of the base unit and
front leg.
4. Install the hair pin clip through the hitch
pin.
CAUTION
CAUTION
Brave Products, Inc. 10 800-350-8739
Assembly Instructions

5. Lift the front leg and carefully roll the base
unit off the pallet.
6. Carefully stand the rail assembly in an
upright, vertical position.
Make sure the rail assembly is standing on
a flat, level area. If necessary, have a
helper steady the rail to prevent it from tip-
ping over. The rail assembly weighs
approximately 270 pounds and will cause
bodily injury if it falls on someone.
7. Carefully align the base assembly, using
the front leg, with the rail assembly.
Have someone hold the rail assem-
bly to prevent it from falling during
this part of the assembly.
8. Center the rail between the hinge plates
on the base assembly, as shown. Insert a
1/2-13 x 4-1/2 inch long hex head bolt
through rear top hole of the hinge plates
and rail. Install and tighten a 1/2-13 lock-
nut.
NOTE: To prevent the rail from binding, do
not overtighten the locknut. This connection
serves as the pivot point for the log splitter
from the vertical to horizontal position.
WARNING
800-350-8739 11 Brave Products, Inc.
Assembly Instructions

9. Put one foot on the base plate of the front
leg to prevent the log splitter from tipping
up and lower the rail to a horizontal
position.
NOTE: Block the wheels to prevent the base
unit from moving.
10. Insert the hitch pin through the top, front
hole of the hinge plates, through the rail
and secure it with a hair pin clip on the
opposite side.
11. Link the ends of safety chains together
with the safety quick-link and tighten the
link’s locknut securely with a wrench.
12. Place the hitch over the attachment tube,
aligning the bolt holes, and insert the rear
1/2 x 3 inch bolt (A). Install and tighten
the locknut.
Insert the end of quick link into front tube
of the rail assembly and insert a 1/2 x 3
inch bolt (B) through link and hitch.
Install and tighten the locknut.
Brave Products, Inc. 12 800-350-8739
Assembly Instructions

13. Insert the chain link into the valve body
as shown, with the pins facing upward.
14. 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.
15. Secure the side plate by using a pair of
pliers to slide the retaining clip in place
onto the two pins.
16. 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).
800-350-8739 13 Brave Products, Inc.
Assembly Instructions

17. Attach high-pressure hose (A) to the bot-
tom valve fitting.
NOTE: The high-pressure hose is self-seal-
ing and does not require any type of sealing
material. Tighten the fitting with the 10 inch
crescent wrench.
18. Attach the end of low-pressure return
hose (B) to the fitting on top of the valve.
Position and tighten the hose clamp
approximately 3/8 inch from the end of the
hose.
NOTE: Steps 19 and 20 apply to installation of
fenders on model VH0626 only.
19. Install the left and right-hand fender
brackets using two 5/16-18 x 3/4 inch long
hex head bolts and locknuts for each
bracket. Install the bracket with the slot-
ted holes against the base unit (round
holes up).
NOTE: The right-hand side of the log splitter is
the right side when viewed from the hitch end.
20. 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 with the bolts in the middle and
front holes. This should place the fender
over the tire with equal spacing in the
front and back.
Brave Products, Inc. 14 800-350-8739
Assembly Instructions

21. 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.
Model VH0622 Model VH0626
800-350-8739 15 Brave Products, Inc.
Assembly Instructions

Important Notice
Follow all the instructions listed below before starting or operating your log split-
ter. Failure to do so may result in engine and hydraulic pump damage. Also
read the Briggs & Stratton Operating & Maintenance Instructions. If you do not
have this manual, contact Briggs & Stratton at 800-233-3723 to obtain another
one or download a copy from their web site at www.briggsandstratton.com.
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.
1. Fill the hydraulic tank with 3.8 gallons of SAE 10W tractor hydraulic oil or automatic
transmission fluid such as Dextron III. The tank is full when the oil level is approxi-
mately 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 5.4 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, with one hand, to the forward (extend) position
(towards the front of the cylinder). Pull the engine starter cord, with the other hand,
(approximately 15 times) until the cylinder piston moves forward. (Keep everything
away from the pusher plate and slide wedge during this step.)
NOTE: Extending the cylinder piston draws the hydraulic fluid through the system and
expels any trapped air in the system.
6. Check the fluid level in the hydraulic tank and add oil as needed.
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 continu-
ing. Fuel and fuel vapors are highly flammable and can cause personal
injury or even death when ignited.
WARNING
Brave Products, Inc. 16 800-350-8739
Start-Up Procedure

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.
800-350-8739 17 Brave Products, Inc.
Start-Up Procedure

Maximum Speed Limit — 35 mph
Your log splitter is built on a solid, unsuspended axle. To prevent damage or
possible loss of vehicle control, use extreme caution when towing and do not
exceed a vehicle speed of 35 mph, especially when driving on a bumpy road.
1. Position the hitch on log splitter over or
onto the tow vehicle’s tow ball. Pull the
latch assembly on the hitch up and into the
open position. In some cases, the hitch
may not totally engage with the ball with-
out raising the front leg of the log splitter.
2. Release the latch assembly on the hitch
and lock the hitch onto the ball. Place a
customer supplied lock or lock pin into the
latch assembly of the hitch.
3. Raise the front leg to the towing position
by removing the hair pin clip and the hitch
pin. If not already secure, make sure the
hitch on the log splitter is properly and
securely attached to the ball. Raise the
front leg, align the top front hole, and
install the hitch pin and hair pin clip.
4. Attach the towing safety chains to the tow
vehicle.
Making sure the log splitter is securely
attached to the vehicle is the responsibility
of the owner/operator. Failure to securely
attach the log splitter can cause loss of
control of the vehicle or the log splitter
being separated from the towing vehicle,
resulting in serious injury or death.
WARNING
WARNING
Brave Products, Inc. 18 800-350-8739
Towing