DOSKO M2965020C User manual

Owner’s Manual
2965020 (3700LS-H)
Instructions for Assembly, Testing, Operation,
Servicing, & Storage
Log Splitter: 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 or 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, log strippers, and logs
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 any ignitable forest, brush, or grassy covered land, the engine
exhaust should be equipped with a spark arrestor.
Keep a fire extinguisher with you, rated for ordinary combustibles and flammable liquids.
STOP!
ASSEMBLY REQUIRED: This product requires assembly before use. See “Assembly” section for instructions.
INSPECT COMPONENTS. Closely inspect upon receipt to make sure no components are missing or damaged.
See “Assembly” section for instructions on whom to contact to report missing or damaged parts.
ADD ENGINE OIL and HYDRAULIC OIL BEFORE USING: This product is shipped without engine oil or
hydraulic oil. DO NOT start log splitter before adding both oils. See “Assembly” and “Initial Unpacking & Set-
up” sections for detailed instructions.
Any Questions, Comments, Problems or Parts Orders
Call your dealer or Dosko Customer Service 1-800-822-0295
ITEM NUMBER: 2965020
SERIAL NUMBER:
_______________
M2965020C

Hazard Signal Word Definitions
2

About Your Log Splitter
3
About Your Log Splitter...........................................................................................................4
Safety Label Locations.............................................................................................................5
Machine Components Identification ........................................................................................7
Initial Set-up.............................................................................................................................8
Moving & Towing to the Job Site............................................................................................10
Before Each Use:
Step One: Inspection/Maintenance.................................................................................13
Step Two: Fueling ..........................................................................................................15
Step Three: Work site Selection & Set-up......................................................................16
Splitting Operation ...................................................................................................................17
Storage......................................................................................................................................23
Periodic Maintenance...............................................................................................................24
Troubleshooting........................................................................................................................26
Specifications............................................................................................................................27
Parts Breakdown –Exploded View..........................................................................................28
Summary of Important Safety Information for Operation........................................................30
Disassembly Instructions………………………………………………………...................... 36
Assembly Instructions ..............................................................................................................37
Limited Warranty .....................................................................................................................39

About Your Log Splitter
4
Thank you for purchasing your Dosko log splitter!
About Your Log Splitter
This log splitter is a machine designed to split wood logs using a hydraulically powered moving wedge.
The gasoline-powered engine is used to pressurize the system.
This log splitter model is capable of splitting logs up to 24″long and 16″in diameter
This log splitter is designed to split logs lengthwise with the grain only.
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 the manual.
Contact Dosko Customer Service at 1-800-822-0295 for any questions about the appropriate use of
this log splitter or about optional accessories.
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 in the splitter’s attached manual tube at all times and advise all persons who will operate
the machine to read it. You must also provide personal instruction on how to safely operate the splitter
and be available to answer any questions a renter/borrower might have.

Safety Label Location
5
Ref#
Part #
Description
QTY
1
778597
Horizontal Lock
2
2
778714
Vertical Lock
1
3
778609
Split Control Lever Operation
1
4
778610
Log Splitter Warning
1
5
39259
Carbon Monoxide Warning
1
6
789236
Towing and Moving Instructions
1
7
777891
High Pressure Hydraulic Fluid Hazard
1
8
777890
Fire Hazard
1
9
787944
Pinch Point Warning
3
10
777887
Operating Instructions
1
11
778717
Log Stripper Warning
2
Always make sure safety labels are in place and in good condition. If a safety label is missing or not
legible, order new labels or unsafe operation could result.

Safety Label Location
6
9
10
11
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8

Machine Component Identification
7
Ref #
Description
Ref #
Description
1
End Plate
13
Manual Tube
2
Log Table
14
Lift Handle
3
Split Control Lever
15
Horizontal Lock
4
Wedge
16
Suction Strainer
5
Cylinder
17
Magnetic Drain Plug
6
Engine Guard
18
Hydraulic Tank
7
Engine
19
Vertical Lock
8
Hydraulic Oil Dipstick
20
Beam
9
Return Line Filter
21
Fender
10
Jack
22
Fuel On/Off
11
2” Coupler
23
Engine On/Off
12
Safety Chains

Initial Set-up
8
WARNING
Carefully read and follow all instructions for initial assembly and set-up of
this log splitter.
Failure to properly assemble and set up this equipment could result in serious
injury to the user or bystanders, or cause equipment damage.
Step One:
Assemble Log
Splitter
Assemble your log splitter.
Closely inspect all log splitter components.
If you have missing components, contact Dosko Customer Service 1-800-
822-0295.
If you have damaged components, contact the Freight Company that
delivered the unit and file a claim.
See the “Assembly” section of this manual – It will provide you with detailed instructions
on:
Inspecting shipped components and whom to contact if anything is missing or
damaged.
Assembly.
Testing.
Step Two:
Add Oil to Engine
Add oil to 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
1. Remove hydraulic oil dipstick.
2. Refer to the Specifications section for approximate hydraulic oil capacity.
3. Fill reservoir with 10 wt 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.
5. Start engine and use split control lever to extend and retract wedge 5 (five) times
to remove air from the high pressure lines.
6. With wedge retracted, check oil level again. Fill if necessary.
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 DEXTRON III.
Oil dipstick
Hydraulic oil

Initial Set-up
9
Step Four:
Check 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 the split control lever
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 over 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 is, 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 who is familiar
with injection injuries.
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.

Moving & Towing to Job Site
10
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 hitch pin 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
Turn fuel valve off to prevent carburetor flooding and reduce the chance of fuel leakage.
4. Lock Jack in
Down Position
Lock jack in down position before you move the log splitter.
5. Move Log
Splitter to Work
Site or Tow Hitch
Roll the splitter by hand either directly to chosen work site or to vehicle hitch for
towing.
(See instructions on p. 16 on selecting a work site.)
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 jack in
DOWN position

Moving & Towing to Job Site
11
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.
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 30 PSI. Pressures higher than 30 PSI
can cause the tire and wheel to rupture and explode.
4. Turn Engine Off
Turn engine off.
Never move the log splitter with the engine running.
5. Turn Fuel Valve
Off
Turn fuel valve off.
This will prevent carburetor flooding and reduce the chance of fuel leakage.
6. 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 fingers.
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. An optional locking pin or padlock
may be inserted in the locking lever hole for extra security.
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.
Locking lever
(locked position)
Unlocked
position
Housing
Lock nut

Moving & Towing to Job Site
12
7. Put Jack Up
To provide adequate ground clearance while towing, secure the jack in the “UP”
position.
8. Tow to
Desired
Location
Tow log splitter carefully to desired work site.
(See instructions on pg.16 on selecting an appropriate work site.)
Important safety instructions:
Added length. Be aware of the added length of the splitter.
Speed limit. Never tow this log splitter over 55 MPH on pavement and 45 MPH
on gravel. 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. Lower Jack
Down &
Unhitch
Lower the jack down and then unhitch from vehicle.
NEVER operate log splitter while it is attached to the vehicle.
1. Lower the jack and use it to lift the coupler slightly to assist in unhitching.
2. Unhitch from vehicle.
Hook both safety chains
to the towing vehicle
Pull latch and swing
jack to the UP position

Before Each Use –Inspection / Maintenance
13
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 the 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
hydraulic 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, blower housing rotating
screen, 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 stripper, and end plate.
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 all nuts and bolts are tight to make sure the log splitter is in safe
working condition. Refer to Bolt Torque Chart on pg. 25.
Apply grease to beam where the wedge travels.
Apply grease to
the top of the
beam and
underneath the
edge of the beam
Some features
have been hidden
for clarity.

Before Each Use –Inspection / Maintenance
14
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 the split control lever
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 over 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 is, 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 who is familiar
with injection injuries.
6. Hydraulic oil level
Check dipstick to make sure hydraulic oil level is to the fill line with cylinder
retracted. Fill as needed. Note: Do not thread in the oil dipstick when checking
hydraulic 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.
8. Spark arrestor
muffler
If the engine is equipped with a spark arrester 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 30 PSI. Pressures higher than 30
PSI can cause the tire and wheel to rupture and explode.
10. Shields / guards
Replace all guards and shields after servicing the log splitter.

Before Each Use –Fueling
15
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 / 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 an UL-approved 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 approved 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 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 an UL approved, tightly sealed
container.

Before Each Use –Work Site Selection & Set-Up
16
Step Three: Work site selection and log splitter set-up
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.
Requirements:
1. Dry, level surface with good footing. Stay clear of areas with mud, ice, tall grass,
weeds, or brush.
2. Outdoors, away from air intakes.
DANGER: 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.
2. Make sure you comply with applicable local, state and federal codes.
3. Keep a fire extinguisher available (classified for both ordinary combustibles &
flammable liquids) as a precautionary measure when operating the log splitter in dry
areas.
3. Position 7’ from
any combustibles
or flammable
liquids
Position splitter at least 7 ft. from combustible objects during operation.
Hot exhaust fumes from splitter engine could cause fire. Also, hydraulic oil leaking or
spraying on hot engine can ignite.
4. Block Wheels
Block wheels to prevent unintended movement of the log splitter.

Splitting Operation
17
WARNING
Before starting the log splitter, review the following instructions and safety information for safe operation.
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. Children 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:
oAttachments. Never add attachments to the splitter, except for authorized accessories supplied by
the manufacturer with instructions for safe installation and use.
oEngine 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.
oFuel/exhaust system. NEVER modify or add to the exhaust system, fuel tanks, or fuel lines. Fire
can result.
oRemote control. NEVER attach a rope, cable, or other remote device to the splitting control.
oSplitting wedge. NEVER attempt to change the height or speed of the splitting wedge.
oPressure 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 1-800-822-0295 to order
new safety labels.

Splitting Operation
18
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 &
block
Secure log splitter from unintended movement. Check that:
1) The jack 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.
Horizontal Splitting Position
Horizontal
Lock
Jack in DOWN
Position

Splitting Operation
19
b) Set to
Vertical
position
1) Pull out horizontal lock catch pin, then grasp lifting handle and lift beam until it
rotates into vertical position.
WARNING:Crush hazard. The beam is heavy –do not let it just drop. It could
crush fingers or cause damage to the splitter.
2) Lock in vertical position by rotating vertical lock.
To return to horizontal position, unlock vertical position, grasp lifting handle and lower
beam carefully in a controlled manner until it rests on the tow bar, lock beam in the
horizontal position with catch pin.
4. Start engine
Start the engine.
See the engine owner’s manual for engine starting instructions.
Note:
a) Make sure the hydraulic oil is above 10oF before starting the engine. Cold hydraulic
oil can damage the hydraulic pump.
b) If outdoor air temperature is below 32oF, allow log splitter to warm up by extending
and returning the wedge several times before splitting wood.
WARNING:
Burns. To avoid burns, stay clear of hot muffler if you are starting a warm engine.
Carbon monoxide. The running engine gives off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas
that can kill you. You CANNOT smell it, see it, or taste it. 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.
Other exhaust dangers. Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle
components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Avoid inhalation of exhaust.
Vertical Splitting Position
Lifting Handle
Horizontal Lock
Lock Catch Pin
Vertical Lock

Splitting Operation
20
FIG02218
5. Load log
Load log onto beam between the wedge and an endplate, cut edge against the endplate -
positioned for a lengthwise cut.
Notes:
a) The log splitter is designed only for cutting lengthwise with the grain, NOT for
cutting across the grain.
b) This log splitter is designed for cutting logs only up to 24″long and 16″in diameter,
lengthwise with the grain only. Larger diameter logs could get stuck on the wedge
and longer logs will not fit on the beam.
Correct Log Orientation Incorrect Log Orientation
WARNING: ALWAYS keep hands and feet away from the wedge and partially split
logs while loading, operating and unloading the log splitter.
Important safety instructions:
Hold bark side. Hold the bark side of logs when loading or positioning, never the
ends. Never place your hands or any part of your body between a log and any part of
the log splitter. NEVER place hands on log while splitting.
Wedge moving. NEVER load or unload logs while the wedge is moving.
Straddling / reaching across. Never straddle, reach across, or step over the beam
while the engine is running. You could trip, actuate the controls, and get seriously
injured.
Unsplit log pile. Do not pile logs to be split in a place that will make you reach
across the log splitter in order to load them.
Square log ends. Logs that are not cut square can slide out while splitting and
become a safety hazard or cause excessive force to log splitter components. Use a
chainsaw to cut logs square on each end before attempting to split them.
Single log. Never attempt to split more than one log at a time. Pieces of log can
unexpectedly be thrown from the machine causing serious injury.
Split along grain. Do not use the log splitter to split logs across the grain. Doing so
will damage the log splitter and could also cause pieces of log to be thrown, injuring
the operator or bystanders
Forked logs. Splitting forked logs can cause damage to the log splitter. Trim the
forked log with a chain saw prior to splitting the log.
Changing splitting position. Do not change splitting positions (horizontal/vertical)
with the engine running. You may contact the muffler and receive serious burns. Be
careful to avoid contact with hot muffler even after the engine is turned off.