Clarke LOGBUSTER 5 Instruction Manual

OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS
LS0616
LOG SPLITTER
MODEL NO: LOGBUSTER 5
PART NO: 3402030

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INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing this CLARKE Log Splitter.
Before attempting to use this product, please read this manual thoroughly and
follow the instructions carefully. In doing so you will ensure the safety of yourself
and that of others around you, and you can look forward to your purchase
giving you long and satisfactory service.
GUARANTEE
This product is guaranteed against faulty manufacture for a period of 12
months from the date of purchase. Please keep your receipt which will be
required as proof of purchase.
This guarantee is invalid if the product is found to have been abused or
tampered with in any way, or not used for the purpose for which it was
intended.
Faulty goods should be returned to their place of purchase, no product can
be returned to us without prior permission.
This guarantee does not effect your statutory rights.
ENVIRONMENTAL RECYCLING POLICY
Through purchase of this product, the customer is taking on the
obligation to deal with the WEEE in accordance with the WEEE
regulations in relation to the treatment, recycling & recovery and
environmentally sound disposal of the WEEE.
In effect, this means that this product must not be disposed of with general
household waste. It must be disposed of according to the laws governing Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) at a recognised disposal facility.

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GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WORK AREA
1. Keep the work area clean and well lit. Cluttered and dark areas invite accidents.
2. Do not operate log splitters in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust. Log splitters create sparks which may ignite the
dust or fumes.
3. Keep children and bystanders away while operating the log splitter. Distractions can
cause you to lose control.
4. The surface must be perfectly level to prevent the machine from moving during
operation.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
1. The log splitters plug must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way.
Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce risk of electric shock.
2. Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators,
ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is
earthed or grounded.
3. Do not expose log splitters to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a log splitters will
increase the risk of electric shock.
4. Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the log
splitter. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or
entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
5. When operating the log splitter outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor
use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
6. Do not leave the log splitter unattended when plugged in to the mains supply.
PERSONAL SAFETY
1. Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a log
splittter. Do not use the log splitter while you are tired or under the influence of drugs,
alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating log splitters may
result in serious personal injury.
2. Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. Safety equipment such as non-
skid safety shoes, close fitting clothing and suitable work gloves should always be
used.
3. Avoid accidental starting. Ensure the switch is in the off position before plugging in.
4. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better
control of the log splitters in unexpected situations.
WARNING: READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS. FAILURE TO FOLLOW ALL
INSTRUCTIONS LISTED BELOW MAY RESULT IN ELECTRIC SHOCK, FIRE AND/
OR SERIOUS INJURY. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

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5. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair, clothing and
gloves away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught
in moving parts.
USAGE AND CARE
1. Do not force the log splitter. It will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it
was designed.
2. Disconnect the plug from the power source before making any adjustments,
changing accessories, or storing the log splitter. Such preventive safety measures
reduce the risk of starting the log splitter accidentally.
3. Storethe log splitter out of the reach of children and do not allow persons unfamiliar
with log splitters or these instructions to operate the log splitter. Log splitters are
dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
4. Maintain the log splitter. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts,
breakage of parts and any other condition that may affect the log splitters
operation. If damaged, have the log splitter repaired before use. Many accidents
are caused by poorly maintained power tools.
5. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly maintained cutting tools with sharp
cutting edges are less likely to bind and are easier to control.
SERVICE
1. Have your power tool serviced by a qualified repair person using only identical
replacement parts. This will ensure that the safety of the power tool is maintained.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY RULES FOR LOG BUSTERS
Extra special care is required when using this powerful tool to safeguard yourself and
that of others around you.
1. Never tamper with the log buster or attempt to operate the machine without covers
fitted.
2. Never work with the machine on the ground. This is not only an uncomfortable
working position but it can also be dangerous because the operator has to bend
towards the machine, and thus risk being struck by chips or debris.
3. The log buster must be used on a raised surface, of sufficient height, so that when
the log buster is mounted, the main bed of the machine is no higher or lower, than
the extended arms of the operator, without the operator having to bend forward.
4. Do not allow split logs to accumulate, always clean up as you work, accumulated
split logs and wood chips can create a hazardous work environment.
5. The operator must operate the machines controls with both hands without using
other makeshift systems, i.e. wedging control levers down etc.
6. The machine must always be used by one operator only. Nobody must be allowed
to use the log buster unless they have read the instruction manual thoroughly and
have been instructed in its use. The machine must be used by adults only. Check
that the logs to be split are free from nails or wire, which may fly up or damage the

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machine. The ends of the logs must be cut square. Branches must be cut off flush
with the trunk.
7. Never attempt to split two logs at once; one may be ejected with possibly serious
damage.
8. Split wood in the direction of the grain. Do not attempt to split a piece of wood
across the grain as this could seriously damage the machine.
9. If the log moves away from the blade, retract the ram and rotate the log through
90O
10. Do not attempt to load the log in the machine whilst the log pusher is in motion.
11. Keep your hands well away from any splits and cracks which open in the log.
12. Do not force the blade by pushing the log on the
upper part, as this can cause the blade to break or
damage the body of the machine. Always set the
log on the guides.
13. Never leave the machine unattended while it is
running. If you leave the machine, even for a short
time, disconnect from the power supply.
14. Never use the machine whilst under the influence of
alcohol, drugs, medicines, or when you are tired. A
clear mind is essential for safety.
15. Never request the assistance of another person to help you remove a jammed log.
16. Always disconnect the power cable when not in use, when carrying out
maintenance work or when moving the machine.
17. Never use the Log buster if it is not in perfect order or if it needs servicing.
18. Before starting work, check correct functioning of all the safety devices and check
for soundness of welded joints, securing nuts & bolts.
SIZE OF THE LOGS BEING SPLIT
The image on the right shows the maximum log size that can
be split.
• It is important not to attempt to split a log for longer
than 5 seconds as the pump may be damaged by
the oil overheating. This could occur when the wood
being split is excessively fibrous, knotty or wet, green
wood.
NOTE: The diameter of the log is indicative: i.e. A small log
can be difficult to split if it has knots or a particularly tough fibre.
• It is therefore better to stop and rotate the log by 90O, as shown above, to see
whether it can be split in a different plane.
• Not being able to split the log within this time, indicates that its hardness exceeds
the capacity of the machine and it should therefore be discarded so as not to
cause damage/injury.
250mm
520mm

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SAFETY SYMBOLS

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ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS
Connect the mains lead to a standard, 230 Volt (50Hz) electrical supply
through an approved 13 amp BS 1363 plug, or a suitably fused isolator switch.
IMPORTANT: The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the
following code:
Green & Yellow - Earth
Blue - Neutral
Brown - Live
As the colours of the flexible lead of this appliance may not correspond with
the coloured markings identifying terminals in your plug proceed as follows:
• Connect GREEN & YELLOW cord to terminal marked with a letter “E”
or Earth symbol “ ” or coloured GREEN or GREEN & YELLOW.
• Connect BROWN cord to terminal marked with a letter “L” or
coloured RED.
• Connect BLUE cord to terminal marked with a letter “N” or coloured
BLACK.
If this appliance is fitted with a plug which is moulded onto the electric cable
(i.e. non-rewireable) please note:
1. The plug must be thrown away if it is cut from the electric cable. There is a
danger of electric shock if it is subsequently inserted into a socket outlet.
2. Never use the plug without the fuse cover fitted.
3. When replacing a detachable fuse carrier, ensure the correct replacement
is used (as indicated by marking or colour code).
4. Replacement fuse covers can be obtained from your local dealer or most
electrical stockists.
FUSE RATING
The fuse in the plug must be replaced with one of the same rating (13 amps)
and this replacement must be ASTA approved to BS1362.
We strongly recommend that this machine is connected to the mains supply
via a Residual Current Device (RCD)
If in any doubt, consult a qualified electrician. DO NOT attempt any repairs
yourself.
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED

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IDENTIFICATION OF PARTS
No Description Part number No Description Part number
1Log pusher plate LGLOGB501 9Switch box LGLOGB509
2Work table LGLOGB502 10 Wheels LGLOGB510
3Wedge N/A 11 Control lever LGLOGB511
4Lifting handle LGLOGB504 12 Guard LGLOGB512
5Support leg LGLOGB505 13 Bleed screw LGLOGB513
6Log retaining plates LGLOGB506 14 Oil Drain bolt with
dipstick
LGLOGB514
7Push button switch LGLOGB507 15 Return Stop LGLOGB515
8Motor LGLOGB508

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BEFORE USE
BLEEDING THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM
Before operating the log buster, the
Bleed Screw should be loosened by
2-3 turns until air can go in and out of
the oil tank smoothly.
• Air flow through the Bleed
Screw hole should be
detectable when the log
buster is in operation.
Before moving the log buster, make
sure the Bleed Screw is tightened to
avoid oil leaking from this point.
POSITIONING THE LOGS
• Always place the logs on the log retaining plates.
• Make sure the logs do not twist, rock or slip while being split.
• Do not force the log buster by
splitting the log on the upper
part of the wedge. This will
break the wedge or damage
the machine.
• Break log in the direction of its
grain.
• Do not place the log across the
log buster for splitting. It may be
dangerous and may seriously
damage the machine.
• Do not attempt to split 2 logs at the same time. One of them may fly
up and hit you.
WARNING: FAILURE TO DO THIS WILL CAUSE PERMANENT DAMAGE TO THE
LOG BUSTER.
Bleed Screw
Wedge

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OPERATION
OPERATING THE LOG BUSTER
This log buster is designed to be operated by one person only and requires
two handed operation by the user -
The left hand controls the hydraulic
control lever and the right hand
controls the push button switch.
1. Push and hold the push button
switch
2. Then press and hold down the
control lever to start the log
buster.
• The log buster will freeze if
either control is released.
• When both controls are
released, the log pusher returns
to the starting position.
NOTE: Once you start splitting the log, never reach into the splitting zone.
For extremely hard logs, rotate the log by 90° to see whether it can be split in a
different direction. In any case, if you are still not able to split the log, this
means that the wood exceeds the capacity of the machine and should be
discarded to protect the log buster.
ADJUSTING THE RETURN STOPPING POINT
If you are splitting a pile of shorter logs you may want to prevent the pusher
plate returning all the way back to the start, this will speed up future
operations.
To adjust how far the pusher plate comes back:
1. Extend the ram fully. as shown in “Operating the Log Buster” .
NOTE: Do not put any logs on the log splitter at this stage.
WARNING: NEVER FORCE THE LOG BUSTER FOR MORE THAN 5 SECONDS
TO SPLIT EXCESSIVELY HARD WOOD. AFTER THIS TIME, THE OIL UNDER
PRESSURE WILL OVERHEAT AND THE MACHINE COULD BE DAMAGED.

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2. When the ram is at full extension,
release the push button switch.
• Keep the Control lever pressed
down the prevent the ram from
returning.
3. Loosen the handwheel on the
return stop and slide the stop to
the desired position
• Move the stop towards the
splitter to shorten the stroke.
4. Tighten the handwheel on the return stop to lock it into position.
5. Make sure youre hands are clear of the ram, and release the control lever.
• The ram should return as far as the stop will allow.
FREEING A JAMMED LOG
1. Release both controls.
• The log pusher moves back and completely stops at its starting
position.
2. Insert a wedge wood under the
jammed log.
3. Start the log buster to push the
wedge wood to go completely
under the jammed one.
4. Repeat above procedure with
sharper sloped wedges of woods
until the log is completely free.
Do not try to hit the jammed log off of
the log buster, this may damage the
machine or may cause the log to fly
up and cause an accident.

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MAINTENANCE
REPLACING THE HYDRAULIC OIL
Replace the Hydraulic oil in the log buster after every 150 hours of use. Take
following steps to replace it.
1. Place a container, large enough to hold 4
liters of oil under the oil filler plug, Loosen
the bleed screw three or four turns.
2. Loosen and remove the oil filer plug/
dipstick, slowly tilt the machine to empty
the oil.
3. To refill with new oil, tilt machine
backwards, using a clean funnel, pour in
3.5 Liters of Clarke hydraulic oil,
IMPORTANT: Only use CLARKE HYDRAULIC
OIL, available from your nearest dealer.
Part No: 1Ltr - 3050830
5Ltr - 3050835
4. Wipe the dipstick, using a clean soft cloth
and check the oil level as before
• Add more oil if required.
5. Clean the filler neck and plug/dipstick
washer/seal thoroughly and refit, tighten
sufficiently to prevent oil leaking, DO NOT
overtighten.
6. Carefully return the machine to normal working position.
7. Finally, tighten the bleed screw.
SHARPENING WEDGE
After using the log busters for some time, sharpen the wedge of the log buster
using a fine-toothed file and smooth any burrs or crushed area along the
cutting edge.
WARNING: MAKE SURE THAT THE LOG SPLITTER IS SWITCHED OFF AND
DISCONNECTED FROM THE MAINS SUPPLY BEFORE STARTING ANY
CLEANING OR MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES.

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TRANSPORT AND STORAGE
MOVING THE LOG BUSTER
CAUTION: BEFORE MOVING THE LOG BUSTER, MAKE SURE THE BLEED
SCREW IS TIGHTENED TO AVOID OIL LEAKING.
• Lift the front of the log buster by the handle and move the log buster
to the woking area.
STORAGE
When you have finish working with your log buster
1. Disconnect the log buster from the mains supply.
2. Tighten the bleed screw.
3. Clean the unit down using a dry cloth.
TROUBLESHOOTING
PROBLEM CAUSE REMEDY
Fails to split logs Log is improperly positioned. Refer to "log buster Operation"
section on page 9
Wedge cutting edge is blunt. Refer to "Sharpening Wedge"
section See page 12
Oil leaks Contact the dealer
Unauthorized adjustment was
made on Max. Pressure
Limiting Screw.
Contact the dealer.
The log pusher
moves jerkily
Excessive air in the hydraulic
system.
Check oil level for possible oil
refilling. Contact the dealer.
Oil leaks
around
cylinder ram or
from other
points.
Air sealed in hydraulic system
while operating.
Loosen Bleed Screw by 3- 4 turns
before operating the log buster.
Bleed Screw is not tightened
before moving the log buster.
Tighten the Bleed Screw up before
moving the log buster.
Oil Drain Bolt is not tight. Tighten the Oil Drain Bolt.
Hydraulic Control Valve
Assembly and / or seal(s) worn
Contact the dealer.

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SPECIFICATIONS
Logbuster 5
Electrical Supply 230V @ 50Hz
Input Wattage 2000W
Part Number 3402030
IP Rating IP54
Weight 44.5 Kg
Dimensions (L x W x H) 921 x 270 x 450 mm
A-weighted Sound Pressure Level dB (A) <= 71 dB (A)
Log Capacity
Maximum Length 520 mm
Minimum Length 300 mm
Maximum Diameter 250 mm
Minimum Diameter 50 mm
PARTS AND SERVICING
For Parts & Servicing, please contact your nearest dealer, or
CLARKE International, on one of the following numbers
PARTS & SERVICE TEL: [phone]
PARTS & SERVICE FAX: [phone]
or e-mail as follows:
PARTS: [email protected]
SERVICE: [email protected]

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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY