Brave VH1724GX User manual

1
ITEM NUMBER: __________________
SERIAL NUMBER: ________________
MVH1724D
MODELS:
VH1724GC VH1724GX
VH1730GC VH1730GXI
VH1737GX
Owner’s Manual
Instructions for Assembly, Testing, Operation,
Servicing and Storage
24, 30, & 37 Ton Log Splitters: Outdoor hydraulic powered machine
that splits wood logs.
WARNING
READ and UNDERSTAND this manual completely before using log splitter.
All operators of this equipment must read and completely understand all safety information, operating instructions, maintenance
and storage instructions. Failure to properly operate and maintain the log splitter could result in serious injury to the operator and
bystanders from moving parts that can crush or cut, flying objects, burns, fire or explosion, escaping high pressure hydraulic fluid,
or carbon monoxide poisoning in particular, be aware of the following hazards.
Crush and Cut Hazards
Moving parts can crush and cut hands and fingers. Keep hands clear of endplate, wedge, logs, and log dislodger/strippers
while splitting.
High Pressure Hydraulic Fluid Hazards
High fluid pressures and temperatures are developed in hydraulic log splitters. Hydraulic fluid escaping through even a pin-
size hole opening can puncture skin and cause severe blood poisoning. Inspect hydraulic system regularly for possible leaks.
Never check for leaks with your hand while the system is pressurized. Seek medical attention immediately if injured by
escaping fluid.
Fire Hazards
•If your log splitter is intended for use near an ignitable forest, brush, or grassy covered land, the engine exhaust should be
equipped with a spark arrestor. See the "Specifications" section of this manual to determine if your splitter already has a spark
arrestor. If not equipped, call Brave Product Support for ordering information.
•Keep a class ABC fire extinguisher with you.
STOP!
ADD OIL TO ENGINE BEFORE USING: Engine is shipped without oil. DO NOT start log splitter without first adding oil.
ADD HYDRAULIC OIL: Your log splitter was shipped without hydraulic oil. Refer to Periodic Maintenance section of this manual
for instructions on filling the hydraulic reservoir
PRIME THE PUMP: The pump on your log splitter needs to be primed before use. Refer to Initial Setup section for instructions.
INSPECT COMPONENTS: Closely inspect to make sure no components are missing or damaged.
See Initial Unpacking and Set-up for instructions and for whom to contact to report missing or damaged parts.
Any Questions, Comments, Problems or Parts Orders
Call Brave Product Support 1-800-350-8739

2
Hazard Signal Word Definitions

3
Table of Contents
Hazard Signal Word Definitions................................................................................................................................................................2
Table of Contents.......................................................................................................................................................................................3
About Your Log Splitter............................................................................................................................................................................4
Safety Label Locations ..............................................................................................................................................................................5
Machine Component Identification ...........................................................................................................................................................7
Initial Setup................................................................................................................................................................................................8
Moving and Towing to the Job Site.........................................................................................................................................................10
Before Each Use –Inspection/Maintenance ............................................................................................................................................14
Before Each Use –Fueling ......................................................................................................................................................................17
Before Each Use –Work Site Selection and Set-Up ...............................................................................................................................18
Splitting Operation...................................................................................................................................................................................19
Storage.....................................................................................................................................................................................................25
Periodic Maintenance...............................................................................................................................................................................26
Troubleshooting.......................................................................................................................................................................................28
Specifications...........................................................................................................................................................................................29
Parts Breakdown –Exploded View –Rev C ...........................................................................................................................................30
Summary of Important Safety information for Operation........................................................................................................................32
Assembly Instructions..............................................................................................................................................................................37
Available Accessories..............................................................................................................................................................................58
Limited Warranty.....................................................................................................................................................................................60
Product Registration.................................................................................................................................................................................61
California Proposition 65 Information…………………………………………………………………………………………………...62

4
About Your Log Splitter
Thank you for purchasing your Brave log splitter!
About Your Log Splitter:
This log splitter is a machine designed to split wood logs using a hydraulically powered moving wedge.
The log splitter's gasoline engine is used to pressurize the hydraulic system.
This log splitter is designed to split logs lengthwise with the grain only.
This log splitter model is capable of splitting logs up to 24”long and 16”in diameter.
Your splitter can be used in either a vertical or horizontal splitting position:
•When the splitter is set up to operate in the horizontal splitting position, a log is placed on the
horizontal beam and the wedge moves horizontally into the end of the log to split it.
•When the splitter is set up to operate in the vertical splitting position, the log is placed on the
endplate, upright on its end, and the wedge moves down into the top of the log to split it.
The horizontal splitting position is used for lighter logs that can be easily loaded onto the beam. The
vertical splitting position is used for heavier logs that are difficult to load onto the beam.
The technical specifications for your log splitter are provided in the Specifications section of this
manual.
WARNING
This log splitter uses a high-pressure hydraulic system to generate a very strong splitting
force.
Read the manual completely before using the machine to understand how to safely operate
and maintain it.
Follow all safety precautions presented throughout this manual. A summary of important safety
information can be found at the end of this manual.
Contact Brave Product Support at 1-800-350-8739 for any questions about the appropriate use of
this log splitter and/or optional accessories.
Warranty Registration:
Please fill out and submit the warranty registration page at the end of the manual so that we have your
contact information for any future product literature or replacement parts you may need. You can also
register online at www.braveproducts.com.
Attention: All Rental Companies and Private Owners who loan this
equipment to others!
All persons to whom you rent/loan the log splitter must have access to and read this manual. Keep this owner's
manual with the splitter at all times and advise all persons who will operate the machine to read it. You must
provide instruction on how to safely operate the splitter and remain available to answer any questions a
renter/borrower might have.

5
Safety Label Locations
Always make sure safety labels are in good condition. If a safety label is missing or not legible, order new
labels or unsafe operation could result. Contact Brave Product Support at 1-800-350-8739
Ref#
Part #
Description
QTY
1
787944
Pinch Point Warning
2
2
788935
Fuel Fire Explosion Warning
1
3
778609
Split Control Directions
1
4
777891
Escaping Fluid Warning
1
5
791123
45 mph Decal
1
6
791105
Moving/Towing Instructions
1
7
777887
Operating Instructions
1
8
778597
Horizontal Lock Decal
1
9
778714
Vertical Lock Decal
1
10
778717
Log Stripper Warning
2
11
777890
Fire Hazard Warning
1
12
788937
Poisonous Gas Warning
1
13
777889
Stuck Log Warning
1
14
778610
Log Splitter Warning
1
15
---
Nameplate/Serial Number Decal
1
16
788936
Burn Hazard Decal (GC units only)
1
17
799546
Prop 65
1

6
Safety Label Locations
5
7
6
9
8
1
2
3
4
10
11
12
13
ESCAPING HIGH PRESSURE HYDRAULIC FLUID HAZARD
High fluid pressures and temperatures are developed in the
hydraulic system. Hydraulic fluid escaping through even a pin-size hole opening can puncture skin and cause blood poisoning.
Inspect hydraulic system regularly for leaks Never check for leaks with your hand while system is pressurized. Seek medical attention immediately if injured by escaping fluid.
©Northern Tool + Equipment Co. 1-800-270-0810
WARNING
PN 777891
POISONOUS GAS
This product's use gives off carbon
monoxide, an odorless gas that can kill you.
ONLY use outdoors and away
from air intakes.
NEVER use inside homes, garages,
or sheds. EVEN IF you run a fan or open doors and windows.
See product manual for more details.
©Northern Tool + Equipment Co. 1-800-270-0810 PN 39259
WARNING
Moving parts can crush and cut. Pieces can fly out while
splitting. Follow safety rules for operating the log splitter or serious injury could result.
READ the Owner's Manual completely before operating. Only one person should operate the log splitter. If an
assistant is helping to load logs, the operator should not actuate controls until the assistant is at least 10 ft away.
Stay in the designated OPERATOR POSITION while
actuating the controls.
Split wood in direction of the grain only. Hold bark side of logs when loading. Keep hands away from wedge, endplate/ram, and partly
split logs.
Never leave log splitter unattended during operation. Stay off slopes and slippery surfaces.
See additional safety rules in the Owner's Manual.
©Northern Tool + Equipment Co. 1-800-270-0810 PN 778610
WARNING
LOG STRIPPER
RETRACT WEDGE
TO REMOVE
STUCK WOOD
PINCH POINT
Keep hands clear of
wedge and
log stipper
©Northern Tool & Equipment Co. 1-800-270-0810
SPLIT CONTROL LEVER OPERATION
14
16
17

7
Machine Component Identification
Ref #
Description
Ref #
Description
1
Return Line Filter
10
Engine On/Off
2
Split Control Lever
11
Horizontal Lock
3
End Plate
12
Vertical Lock
4
Beam
13
Support Leg
5
Wedge
14
2” Ball Coupler
6
Log Dislodger
15
Safety Chains
7
Cylinder
16
Hydraulic Reservoir Cap
8
Engine
17
Suction Strainer
9
Fuel On/Off

8
Initial Setup
IMPORTANT!
Engine is shipped without oil. DO NOT start the engine before adding oil.
See Assembly Instructions section of this manual on page 37 to assemble the log splitter before setup.
Step One:
Inspect Log Splitter
Components
Closely inspect all log splitter components.
(See Machine Components section of this manual for diagram of components.)
•If you have missing or damaged components, please contact Product Support at
1-800-350-8739.
Step Two:
Add Oil to Engine
Add oil to the engine. Using a funnel, add SAE 10W-30 oil up to the FULL mark
on the dipstick. (See engine Owner's Manual for oil capacity and location of fill cap.)
Step Three:
Add Hydraulic Oil
to Reservoir
WARNING: High fluid pressures and temperatures are developed in hydraulic log
splitters. Hydraulic fluid escaping through a pin-hole sized opening can burn or
puncture skin, resulting in wounds that could cause blood poisoning, infection,
disability, gangrene, amputation, or death. Therefore, the following instructions should
be heeded at all times when inspecting or servicing the hydraulic components of the log
splitter.
•NEVER check for leaks with your hand. Leaks can be located by holding a piece of
cardboard or wood (at least two feet long) with your hand at one end and passing the
other end near the suspected area (wear eye protection). Look for discoloration of the
cardboard or wood.
•NEVER adjust the pressure of the pump or valve.
•If injured by escaping fluid, no matter how small the wound is, see a doctor at once.
A typical injection injury may be a small wound that does not look serious.
However, severe infection or reaction can result if proper medical treatment is not
administered immediately by a doctor who is familiar with injection injuries.
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).
1. Remove hydraulic oil dipstick.
2. Refer to the Specifications section for approximate hydraulic oil capacity.
3. Fill reservoir with 10wt AW32, ASLE H-150, or ISO 32 oil. Use a funnel
4. Replace hydraulic oil dipstick and check that oil level reads full. Note: Do not thread
in dipstick when checking oil level.
Oil Cap w/
Dipstick
Hydraulic Oil

9
Initial Setup
Step Three:
Add Hydraulic Oil
to Reservoir
(continued)
5. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. 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.
6. Push the valve control handle with one hand to the forward (extend) position
(towards the front of the cylinder). Pull on the starter grip recoil at least 20 times so
that hydraulic fluid has cycled through the pump.
7. Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
8. Start engine and use control valve handle to extend and retract wedge five (5) times
to remove air from the high pressure lines.
9. With wedge retracted, shut off engine.
10. Check oil level again. Fill if necessary.
11. Replace hydraulic oil fill/vent cap.
WARNING: NEVER remove the hydraulic oil fill cap when the engine is running or
hot. Hot oil can escape causing severe burns. Allow log splitter to cool completely
before removing hydraulic oil fill cap.
Note: If the log splitter will be run for long periods of time in outdoor temperatures
above 70°F, we recommend changing the hydraulic oil to DEXRON III.
Step Four:
Lubricate Beam
Lubricate the surface of the beam with grease. This will help prevent wear between the
wedge keepers and the beam.
Apply grease to the top of the beam and underneath the edge of the
beam, where the wear pads travel.

10
Moving and Towing to the Job Site
WARNING
The log splitter is heavy. It can crush and cause serious injury if it rolls out of control or
tips over.
Follow the instructions below for safely moving and towing the log splitter.
Moving the log splitter:
1. Place in
Horizontal
Position
Make sure the log splitter is locked in the horizontal position with horizontal
latch before moving.
NEVER move log splitter when it is in vertical configuration because it will be
unstable and could tip.
2. Engine Off
IMPORTANT: Make sure log splitter engine is off.
Never move the log splitter with its engine running.
3. Fuel Valve Off
(if equipped)
Turn fuel valve off to prevent carburetor flooding and reduce the chance of fuel
leakage. Refer to Engine owner's manual for fuel valve location.
4. Lock Support
Leg DOWN
Lock support leg in DOWN position before you move the log splitter.
5. Move Log
Splitter to
Work Site or
Tow Hitch
Move log splitter by hand either directly to chosen work site or to vehicle hitch
for towing.
(See Step Three: Before Each Use - Work Site Selection and Set-Up)
Important Safety Instructions:
•Hills. Do not move the log splitter up or down hills by hand—use a towing
vehicle.
•No riding. Never allow anyone to sit or ride on the log splitter.
•No cargo. Never transport cargo or wood on the log splitter.
Lock Support Leg
in DOWN position

11
Moving and Towing to the Job Site
Towing:
1. Read
Instructions
Review towing safety instructions in your vehicle manual.
2. Check
Tires
Make sure tires are fully inflated and in good repair.
WARNING:
•Do not over-inflate tires. Serious injury can occur if tire explodes.
•When seating a bead after repair, do not exceed 60 PSI. Pressures higher than
60 PSI can cause the tire and wheel to rupture and explode.
3. Engine Off
IMPORTANT: Make sure log splitter engine is off.
Never move the log splitter with its engine running.
4. Fuel Valve Off
(if equipped)
Turn fuel valve off to prevent carburetor flooding and reduce the chance of fuel
leakage. Refer to Engine owner's manual for fuel valve location.

12
Moving and Towing to the Job Site
5. Attach to Hitch
(2" ball)
Attach log splitter to vehicle hitch.
1. Attach log splitter's coupler to a class 2 or higher hitch with 2" ball (only).
2. Adjust coupler to ball by raising locking lever and turning lock nut with wrench.
3. Proper adjustment is obtained when coupler is as tight as possible on ball and
locking lever can still be opened and closed.
4. Lock lever closed to secure the attachment.
5. Insert pin into locking lever to ensure it does not unlock while towing.
6. Attach Safety
Chains
Attach safety chains.
1. Two safety chains must be used while towing.
2. Cross safety chains under the coupler allowing only enough slack for vehicle
turns.

13
Moving and Towing to the Job Site
7. Lock Support
Leg UP
To provide adequate ground clearance while towing, secure the support leg in the UP
position.
8. Tow to Desired
Location
Tow log splitter carefully to desired work site.
(See Step Three: Before Each Use –Work Site Selection and Set-Up)
Important safety instructions:
•Added length. Be aware of the added length of the splitter.
•Speed limit. Never tow this log splitter over 45 mph. Faster speeds may
result in loss of control.
•Rough terrain. Drive slowly and take extra caution when traveling over
rough terrain.
•On public roads. If towing on a public road, make sure to comply with all
local, state, and federal towing requirements. It is the sole responsibility of the
purchaser to obtain licensing, trailer lights, safety chains or signage, as needed
to comply.
•Unattended. Turn off the towing vehicle before leaving the splitter
unattended.
•Under the influence. Never tow or operate this splitter while under the
influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
9. Lock Support
Leg DOWN and
Unhitch
Lock support leg in the DOWN position and disconnect from vehicle.
NEVER operate log splitter while it is attached to the vehicle.
1. Lock the support leg down and open the coupler latch assembly.
2. Unhitch from vehicle.
Lock support leg
in UP position

14
Before Each Use –Inspection/Maintenance
Step One: Inspect and maintain log splitter before each use
If the log splitter has been used previously, it must be inspected and maintained BEFORE EACH SUBSEQUENT USE.
WARNING
ALWAYS shut off the engine, disconnect the spark plug, and relieve system pressure before
inspecting, cleaning, adjusting, or repairing the splitter. Relieve system pressure by moving Split
Control Lever back and forth several times.
IMPORTANT:
If a part needs replacement, only use parts that meet the manufacturer's specifications. Replacement parts that do not meet
specifications may result in a safety hazard or poor operation of the log splitter.
1. Engine Off /
Relieve Pressure
Perform all inspections/repairs with the engine off and hydraulic system pressure relieved.
1. Make sure engine is off and cool.
2. Disconnect the spark plug.
3. Relieve all hydraulic system pressure by moving the Split Control Lever back and forth
several times.
2. Remove Debris
Remove debris from engine, muffler, and moving parts.
1. Engine debris: Debris on a hot engine can be a fire hazard. Clean debris and chaff from
engine cylinder head, cylinder head fins, fan housing/recoil starter, and muffler areas.
Avoid contact with hot muffler.
2. Other debris: Debris on moving parts can cause excess wear. Clear debris from the
beam, wedge, log dislodger, and endplate.
3. Fuel Tank / Lines
Check fuel tank and fuel lines for leaks.
Any fuel leak is a fire hazard. Fix any fuel leaks before starting engine.
4. Mechanical Parts
Check to be sure that all nuts and bolts are tight to ensure the log splitter is in safe working
condition.
Apply grease to the top of the beam
and underneath the edge of the beam,
where the wear pads travel.

15
Before Each Use –Inspection/Maintenance
5. Hydraulic System
Check the hydraulic system carefully:
1. Visually inspect all hoses, tubing, clamps/fittings, pump, and cylinder for cracks, fraying,
kinks, or other damage.
2. Check all components for oily residue, which may indicate a leak.
Do NOT operate the log splitter if there is any indication of damage or oily residue. Small leaks
in hydraulic lines can cause severe injuries and can also be an indication of catastrophic failure
in the near future. The life of hydraulic hoses may be from a few months to a few years,
depending on use and storage patterns.
WARNING:High fluid pressures and temperatures are developed in hydraulic log
splitters. Hydraulic fluid escaping through a pin-hole sized opening can burn or
puncture skin, resulting in wounds that could cause blood poisoning, infection,
disability, gangrene, amputation, or death. Therefore, the following instructions should
be heeded at all times when inspecting or servicing the hydraulic components of the log
splitter:
•Stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug, and move all control valve handles back
and forth to relieve pressure before changing or adjusting hydraulic system
components such as hoses, tubing, fittings, or other components.
•NEVER check for leaks with your hand. Leaks can be located by holding a piece of
cardboard or wood (at least two feet long) with your hand at one end and passing the
other end near the suspected area (wear eye protection). Look for discoloration of the
cardboard or wood.
•NEVER adjust the pressure setting of the pump or valve.
•If injured by escaping fluid, no matter how small the wound, see a doctor at once. A
typical injection injury may be a small puncture wound that does not look serious.
However, severe infection or reaction can result if proper medical treatment is not
administered immediately by a doctor familiar with injection injuries.
6. Hydraulic Oil
Level
Check the hydraulic oil level. Fill as needed –check that oil level reads full. Note: Do not
thread in dipstick when checking oil level.
WARNING: NEVER remove the hydraulic oil fill cap when the engine is running or
hot. Hot oil can escape causing severe burns. Allow log splitter to cool completely
before removing hydraulic oil fill cap.
7. Engine
Inspect and perform engine maintenance as directed in the engine manual.
Oil Cap w/
Dipstick
Hydraulic Oil

16
Before Each Use –Inspection/Maintenance
8. Spark Arrestor
Muffler
If the engine is equipped with a spark arrestor muffler, clean and inspect it regularly
(follow spark arrestor manufacturer's service instructions).
Replace if damaged.
9. Tires
Make sure tires are fully inflated and in good repair if you will be towing the splitter.
See tire sidewall for recommended tire pressure.
WARNING:
•Do not over-inflate tires. Serious injury can occur if tire explodes.
•When seating a bead after repair, do not exceed 60 PSI. Pressures higher than 60 PSI can
cause the tire and wheel to rupture and explode.
10. Shields / Guards
Replace all guards and shields after servicing the log splitter.

17
Before Each Use –Fueling
Step Two: Fueling
WARNING
Gasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling
fuel. Use extreme care when handling gasoline.
1. Engine Off and
Cool
The engine must be off and allowed to cool at least two minutes before adding fuel.
WARNING: A running engine is hot enough to ignite fuel. Never add fuel or remove gas
cap if engine is running or still hot.
2. Outdoor Location
Fill fuel tank outdoors –never indoors.
WARNING: Gasoline vapors can ignite if they collect inside an enclosure. Explosion can
result.
3. Remove Gas Cap
Remove engine gas cap.
4. Add Gasoline
Add gasoline through fill opening from a UL listed
container.
Important Safety Instructions:
•Use approved container. NEVER pump fuel
directly into engine at gas station. Static charge can
build and ignite fuel. Use a UL listed fuel container
to transfer gas to the engine.
•Don't overfill. DO NOT overfill the gas tank.
Allow at least 1/2" of empty space below the fill neck
to allow for fuel expansion
•Heat / flames / sparks. Stay away from sources of
heat, flame, or sparks while adding fuel.
5. Spills / Splashes
Clean up fuel spills /splashes immediately.
1. Move the log splitter away from spilled fuel on the ground.
2. Wipe fuel off engine and wait 5 minutes for excess fuel to evaporate before starting engine.
3. Gas soaked rags are flammable and should be disposed of properly.
4. If gasoline is spilled on your skin or clothes, change clothes and wash skin immediately.
6. Replace Gas Cap
Replace gas cap securely before starting engine.
7. Gasoline Storage
Store extra gasoline in a cool, dry place in a UL listed, tightly sealed container.

18
Before Each Use –Work Site Selection and Set-Up
Step Three: Work site selection and log splitter setup
WARNING
It is important to select an appropriate work site and properly set up the log splitter in order to
minimize the risk of slips and falls, equipment rolling or tipping over, carbon monoxide poisoning,
and accidental fires.
1. Select Location
Select an appropriate location for operating the log splitter. Inspect worksite for possible
hazards before each use.
Requirements:
1. Dry-level surface with good footing. Stay clear of areas with mud, ice, tall grass, weeds,
brush, or snow.
2. Outdoors, away from air intakes.
WARNING: The running engine gives off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that can
kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it.
•ONLY run log splitter OUTDOORS and away from air intakes. NEVER run log
splitter inside homes, garages, sheds, or other buildings or semi-enclosed spaces.
These spaces can trap poisonous gases, EVEN if you run a fan or open windows.
•If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using the log splitter, shut off the engine
and get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. See a doctor. You may have carbon monoxide
poisoning.
2. Fire Precautions
Take the following precautions against fire:
1. IMPORTANT: If your splitter will be used near any unimproved forest, brush, or
grassy covered land, then engine must be equipped with a spark arrestor.
(See the "Specifications" section of this manual to determine if your splitter already has a
spark arrestor. Contact Brave Product Support at 1-800-350-8739 for information about
obtaining a spark arrestor for your log splitter if it is unequipped.)
2. Make sure you comply with applicable local, state, and federal codes.
3. Keep a class ABC fire extinguisher available as a precautionary measure when operating
the log splitter in dry areas.
3. Position Splitter
Position muffler at least 7 ft. from combustible or flammable objects during operation.
Hot exhaust fumes from engine could cause fire. Also, hydraulic oil leaking or spraying on hot
engine can ignite.
4. Lock Support
Leg DOWN
Lock the support leg in the DOWN position.
5. Block Wheels
Block the wheels to prevent unintended movement of the log splitter.
6. Apply grease
Apply grease to beam where the wedge travels.
Lock Support
Leg in DOWN
position

19
Splitting Operation
WARNING
Before starting this log splitter, review the following instructions and safety information for safe
operation of the log splitter.
Failure to follow these rules may result in serious injury to the operator or bystanders from moving
parts that crush, cut, or entangle from flying objects, burns, fire, falling or tripping, or from carbon
monoxide poisoning.
General Safety Information:
•Read manual. Do not allow anyone to operate the log splitter who has not read the Owner's Manual or has not
been instructed on the safe use of the splitter. The log splitter owner should instruct all operators in safe log
splitter operation.
•Age restrictions. Never allow anyone under 16 years old to operate the log splitter. Anyone 16 years and older
must be trained and supervised by a trained adult.
•Intended use. Log splitters should only be used for splitting wood logs, lengthwise with the grain. Do not use for
other purposes as unforeseen hazards may result.
•Modifications.Never modify or alter the log splitter in any way. Modifications can create serious safety hazards
and will void the warranty.
•Attachments. Never add attachments to the splitter, except for authorized accessories supplied by the
manufacturer with instructions for safe installation and use.
•Engine speed. The maximum engine speed is preset at a safe limit. Never attempt to modify the engine speed
setting to run at a higher speed.
•Fuel/exhaust system. NEVER modify or add to the exhaust system, fuel tanks, or fuel lines. Fire can result.
•Remote control. NEVER attach a rope, cable, or other remote device to the splitting control.
•Splitting wedge. NEVER attempt to change the height or speed of the splitting wedge.
•Pressure setting. NEVER increase the pressure setting of the pump or control valve.
•Safety equipment / controls. Always operate the log splitter with all safety equipment in place and in good
working order, and all controls properly adjusted for safe operation.
•Know how to stop. Be thoroughly familiar with all controls and with the proper use of the equipment. Know
how to stop the log splitter and relieve system pressures quickly if needed.
•Operating speed. Always operate the log splitter at the manufacturer's recommended speed. The maximum
speed of the engine pump and wedge are preset within safe limits.
•Daylight only. Only use the log splitter in daylight so you can see what you are doing.
•Smoking / sparks. Never smoke while operating the log splitter, and never operate near sources of sparks or
flames.
•Under the influence. Never operate, or let anyone else operate, the log splitter while under the influence of
alcohol, drugs, or medication.
•Unattended. Never leave the machine unattended while the engine is running.
•Refueling. Never refuel the engine until it has cooled at least two minutes.
•Adjusting / repairing. Always make sure the engine is off before cleaning, repairing or adjusting the splitter,
except as recommended by the manufacturer. In addition, disconnect the spark plug and move all control handles
back and forth to relieve system pressure before changing or adjusting hydraulic system components such as
hoses, tubing, fittings or other components.
•Replace labels. Always make sure safety labels are in place and in good condition. If a safety label is missing or
not legible, order new labels because unsafe operation can result. Call 1-800-350-8739 to order new safety labels.

20
Splitting Operation
1. Put on
Protective
Clothing /
Gear
Wear the following protective clothing and safety gear:
1. Eye protection. Always wear safety glasses or goggles when operating the machine. Pieces
of log may fly out and serious eye injury can occur.
2. Boots. Falling logs can crush feet. Always wear safety shoes or heavy boots when operating
or helping to load logs.
3. Gloves. Wear snug fitting gloves without drawstrings or loose cuffs.
4. Hearing protection. The use of earplugs or other hearing protection device is recommended.
5. No loose/dangling apparel. Loose or dangling apparel can become entangled in moving
parts. Never wear jewelry or loose-fitting clothing.
2. Lock and
Block
Block the wheels to prevent unintended movement of the log splitter. Check that:
1. The support leg is locked in the DOWN position.
2. The wheels are blocked.
3. Set to
Horizontal or
Vertical:
a) Set to
Horizontal
Position
Set log splitter into either the horizontal or vertical splitting position.
The HORIZONTAL splitting position is used for lighter logs that can be easily loaded onto the beam.
The VERTICAL splitting position is used for light logs as well as heavy logs that are difficult to load
onto the beam.
Note:
Musculoskeletal injury can result from lifting logs onto the log splitter if proper lifting techniques
are not used or the logs are too heavy for a person's size, weight, or strength. In some cases, logs
as small as 8" in diameter and 14" in length may be heavier than what some persons should be
repeatedly lifting onto the splitter.
The use of the vertical splitting position can greatly reduce the need to lift logs onto the splitter.
Employers are advised to consider NIOSH lifting guidelines when assigning employees to log
splitting tasks for an extended period of time.
WARNING: NEVER change splitting positions with the engine running. You may
contact the muffler and receive serious burns.
Make sure beam is locked securely in the horizontal position by checking the horizontal lock.
Support leg must be locked in the down position.
Horizontal Splitting Position
Horizontal Lock
Support Leg in
DOWN Position