Brave VH1322GX Instruction Manual

Brave 22 and 26 T o n
Vertical / Horizontal
Log Splitters
Model VH1322
Model VH1326
Photos show Model VH1326
Owner / Opera tor
and Safety Manual
MVH1322C.4
VH1322GX, VH1322GC,
VH1322GCI, VH1326GX,
VH1322GXI, VH1326GXI,
VH1326VN

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.
❏ 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.
Visit www.braveproducts.com for more information.

Contents
800-350-8739
1
Brave
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
S torage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Optional Attachment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Log Cradle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Warranty Card. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Brave
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Introduction
These professional quality VH1322 and VH1326 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 VH1322
or VH1326 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 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 Lake Rd., STE 100
Rogers, MN 55374
Phone: [phone] (toll free)
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
Web Site: www.braveproducts.com

Safety
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Brave
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
likelihood 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
splitter safely.
General
To avoid personal injury or death, carefully read and understand all instructions
pertaining to the Brave 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
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.
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.

Safety
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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
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
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.
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 while the engine is running.
✘ NEVER attempt to move your log splitter over hilly or uneven terrain without a
tow vehicle.
✘ 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 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.

Safety
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Brave
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.
✔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.
✘ 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.

Safety
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✔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.
✔ALWAYS keep full attention on the splitting zone to prevent injury. Hazards
can arise from wood defects (knots, irregular shapes, etc).
✘ 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,
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.
✔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
“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.

Safety
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Brave
✘ 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.
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.

Assembly Instructions
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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 VH1322
and VH1326 Log Splitter.
Qty
Description
Q
Qty
Description
1
Base Unit (engine)1
Rail to Base Assembly
1
Rail Unit (hydraulic cylinder)1
1
Bolt (1/2-13 x 4-1/2 inch)2
Hitch Assembly Parts
1
Locknut (1/2-13)2
1
Hitch Assembly (2 inch)2
1
Hitch Pin2
2
Bolts (1/2-13 x 3 inch)2
1
Clip, Hair Pin2
2
Locknuts (1/2-13)2
Valve Assembly
2
Safety Chains2
1
Control Lever (valve)2
2
Safety Quick-Link2
1
Chain Link2
Support Leg Assembly
1
Clevis Pin2
1
Support Leg1
1
Cotter Pin2
1
Bolt (1/2-13 x 4-1/2 inch)2
Fender Assembly (Model VH1326 only)
1
Locknut (1/2-13)2
2
Fenders2
1
Hitch Pin2
1
Fender Bracket, Left-Hand2
1
Clip, Hair Pin2
1
Fender Bracket, Right-Hand2
8
Bolts (5/16-18 x 3/4 inch)2
8
Locknuts (5/16-18)2
1 On the pallet.
2 In cardboard box.

Assembly Instructions
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Brave
Unpacking the Crate
1. Cut the metal banding and remove the top,
sides, ends, and protective plastic
covering 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,
carefully check the larger components on
the crate for shipping damage. If the parts
are damaged, call Brave 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 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 VH1326 only.
Model VH1322 Model VH1326

Assembly Instructions
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Assembly Procedure
CAUTION
Some components are very heavy and can be damaged if mishandled. To
help prevent personal injury, it is strongly recommended that two (2)
people 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.
CAUTION
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 over tighten 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.

Assembly Instructions
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Brave
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.
WARNING
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
assembly 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
locknut.
NOTE: To prevent the rail from binding,
do not over tighten the locknut. This
connection serves as the pivot point for
the log splitter from the vertical to
horizontal position.

Assembly Instructions
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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.

Assembly Instructions
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Brave
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).

Assembly Instructions
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17. Attach high-pressure hose (A) to the
bottom valve fitting.
NOTE: The high-pressure hose is self-
sealing 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 VH1326
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
slotted 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.

Assembly Instructions
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Brave
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 VH1322 Model VH1326

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Start-Up Procedure
Important Notice
Follow all the instructions listed below before starting or operating your log
splitter. 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 or AW-32 tractor hydraulic oil or
automatic transmission 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 tight-
en 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 the 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.
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.

800-350-8739
17
Brave
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.

Brave
18
800-350-8739
Towing
Maximum Speed Limit — 35 mph
WARNING
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.
WARNING
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.