DR Power Equipment RapidFire Pro Quick start guide

Read and understand this manual and all instructions before operating the DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER.
Original Language
DR®RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
SAFETY & OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Serial No.
Order No.
DR Power Equipment
Toll-free phone: 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637)
Fax: 1-802-877-1213
Website: www.DRpower.com
Shown with optional
Tray Kit Accessory

2DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
Serial Number
Labe
l
Figure 1
This indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: General Safety Rules............................................................................................................................................................ 3
Chapter 2: Setting Up The DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER................................................................................................................. 7
Chapter 3: Operating The DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER.................................................................................................................. 12
Chapter 4: Maintaining The DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER .............................................................................................................. 15
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................................................................. 22
Chapter 6: Parts Lists and Schematic Diagrams.................................................................................................................................. 24
Conventions used in this manual
Serial Number and Order Number
A Serial Number is used to identify your machine and is located on the Serial
Number Label on your machine (Figure 1). An Order Number is used to check
and maintain your order history and is located on the upper left portion of your
packing slip. For your convenience and ready reference, enter the Serial
Number and Order Number in the space provided on the front cover of this
manual.
Additional Information and Potential Changes
DR Power Equipment reserves the right to discontinue, change, and improve its
products at any time without notice or obligation to the purchaser. The
descriptions and specifications contained in this manual were in effect at
printing. Equipment described within this manual may be optional. Some
illustrations may not be applicable to your machine.
This information is important in the proper use of your machine. Failure to follow this instruction could result in damage to
your machine or property.
This indicates a hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.

CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 3
Read this Safety & Operating Instructions manual before you use the DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER. Become familiar with the
operation and service recommendations to ensure the best performance from your machine. If you have any questions or need
assistance, please contact us at www.DRpower.com or call toll-free 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) and one of our Technical
Support Representatives will be happy to help you.
Chapter 1: General Safety Rules
Labels
Your DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER carries prominent labels as reminders for its proper and safe use. Shown below are copies of
all the Safety and Information labels that appear on the equipment. Take a moment to study them and make a note of their
location on your LOG SPLITTER as you set up and before you operate the unit. Replace damaged or missing safety and
information labels immediately.
#36545
#13758
#18887
#25044
#33361
#32128

4DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
This is a high-powered machine, with moving parts operating with high energy. You must operate the machine safely. Unsafe
operation can create a number of hazards for you, as well as anyone else in the nearby area. Always take the following precautions
when using this machine:
Keep in mind that the operator or user is responsible for accidents or hazards occurring to other people, their property, and
themselves.
Always wear protective goggles or safety glasses with side shields while using the Log Splitter to protect your eyes from
possible thrown debris.
Avoid wearing loose clothing or jewelry, which can catch on moving parts.
We recommend wearing gloves while using the Log Splitter. Be sure your gloves fit properly and do not have loose cuffs or
drawstrings.
Wear shoes with non-slip treads when using your Log Splitter. If you have safety shoes, we recommend wearing them. Do
not use the machine while barefoot or wearing open toed sandals.
Wear long pants while operating the Log Splitter.
Use ear protectors or ear plugs rated for at least 20 dba to protect your hearing.
Keep bystanders at least 50 feet away from your work area at all times. Stop the engine when another person or pet
approaches.
Protecting Yourself and Those Around You
Safety for Children and Pets
Towing
Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the presence of children and pets. Children are often attracted to the
machine and the splitting activity.
Never
assume that children will remain where you last saw them. Always follow these
precautions:
Keep children and pets at least 50 feet from the working area and ensure they are under the watchful care of a responsible
adult.
Be alert and turn the machine off if children or pets enter the work area.
Never allow children to operate the Log Splitter.
ALWAYS check before towing to make certain your 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 machine. Be sure the safety chains are properly
hooked to the vehicle leaving enough slack for turning.
ALWAYS secure the rack to the beam before towing.
ALWAYS use accessory lights and devices when transporting on a road or highway to warn operators of other vehicles. Check
your local government regulations for DOT information.
ALWAYS allow for added length of the Splitter when turning, parking, crossing intersections, and in all driving situations.
ALWAYS be careful when backing up. You could jackknife your Splitter if care is not taken.
NEVER exceed 45 mph. when towing your 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 allow anyone to sit or ride on your Splitter.
NEVER carry any cargo on your Splitter.
Do travel slowly over rough terrain, on hillsides, and around curves to prevent tipping.
Do not tow the Splitter near the edge of a ditch or excavation.

CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 5
Gasoline is a highly flammable liquid. Gasoline also gives off flammable vapor that can be easily ignited and cause a fire or
explosion. Never overlook the hazards of gasoline. Always follow these precautions:
Never run the engine in an enclosed area or without proper ventilation as the exhaust from the engine contains carbon
monoxide, which is an odorless, tasteless, and deadly poisonous gas.
Store all fuel and oil in containers specifically designed and approved for this purpose and keep away from heat and open
flame, and out of the reach of children.
Replace rubber fuel lines and grommets when worn or damaged and after 5 years of use.
Fill the gasoline tank outdoors with the engine off and allow the engine to cool completely. Don't handle gasoline if you or
anyone nearby is smoking, or if you're near anything that could cause it to ignite or explode. Reinstall the fuel tank cap and
fuel container cap securely.
If you spill gasoline, do not attempt to start the engine. Move the machine away from the area of the spill and avoid creating
any source of ignition until the gas vapors have dissipated. Wipe up any spilled fuel to prevent a fire hazard and properly
dispose of the waste.
Allow the engine to cool completely before storing in any enclosure. Never store a machine that has gas in the tank, or a fuel
container, near an open flame or spark such as a water heater, space heater, clothes dryer or furnace.
Never make adjustments or repairs with the engine running. Shut down the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire, keeping it
away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting, wait 5 minutes before making adjustments or repairs.
Never tamper with the engine’s governor setting. The governor controls the maximum safe operation speed and protects the
engine. Over-speeding the engine is dangerous and will cause damage to the engine and to the other moving parts of the
machine. If required, see your authorized dealer for engine governor adjustments.
Keep combustible substances away from the engine when it is hot.
Never cover the machine while the muffler is still hot.
Do not operate the engine with the air cleaner or the carburetor air intake cover removed. Removal of such parts could create
a fire hazard. Do not use flammable solutions to clean the air filter.
The muffler and engine become very hot and can cause a severe burn; do not touch.
Safety with Gasoline - Powered Machines
General Safety
Operating this Log Splitter safely is necessary to prevent or minimize the risk of death or serious injury. Unsafe operation can
create a number of hazards for you. Always take the following precautions when operating this Log Splitter:
Your Log Splitter is a powerful tool, not a plaything. Exercise extreme caution at all times. The machine is designed to split
logs. Do not use it for any other purpose.
Know how to stop the Log Splitter quickly; see “stopping the engine” in chapter 3.
Never operate your unit on a slippery, wet, muddy, or icy surface. Exercise caution to avoid slipping or falling.
See manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and installation of accessories. Only use accessories approved by DR
Power Equipment.
Never use the machine without ensuring that all guards and shields are in place.
Never, under any conditions, remove, bend, cut, fit, weld, or otherwise alter standard parts on the Log Splitter. This includes
all shields and guards. Modifications to your machine could cause personal injuries and property damage and will void your
warranty.
Allow only one person to operate the Log Splitter at any time.

6DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
California Proposition 65:
Engine exhaust and some of its constituents are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, and other
reproductive harm.
This product contains or emits chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, and other
reproductive harm.
General Safety (continued)
California Proposition 65
A Note to All Users
Under California law, and the laws of some other states, you are not permitted to operate an internal combustion engine using
hydrocarbon fuels without an engine spark arrester. This also applies to operation on US Forest Lands. All DR RAPIDFIRE LOG
SPLITTERS shipped to California, New Mexico and Washington State are provided with spark arresters. Failure of the owner or
operator to maintain this equipment in compliance with state regulations is a misdemeanor under California law and may be in
violation of other state and/or federal regulations. Contact your State Park Association or the appropriate state organization for
specific information in your area.
No list of warnings and cautions can be all-inclusive. If situations occur that are not covered by this manual, the operator must
apply common sense and operate this DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER in a safe manner. Contact us at www.DRpower.com or call
1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) for assistance.
If the machine should start making an unusual noise or vibration, shut down the engine, disconnect the spark plug wire,
keeping it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting, wait 5 minutes for machine to cool down, then inspect for
damage. Vibration is generally a warning of trouble. Check for damaged parts and clean, repair and replace as necessary.
Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper operation regularly.
Before performing any maintenance or inspection procedure on the Log Splitter shut down the engine, disconnect the spark
plug wire keeping it away from the spark plug to prevent accidental starting, wait 5 minutes for machine to cool down.
Never allow people who are unfamiliar with these instructions to use the Log Splitter. Allow only responsible individuals who
are familiar with these rules of safe operation to use your machine.
Never overload or attempt to split logs beyond the recommendations listed in this manual. Personal injury or damage to the
machine could result.
While using the Log Splitter, don't hurry or take things for granted. When in doubt about the equipment or your
surroundings, stop the machine and take the time to look things over.
Never operate the machine when under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication.
Use the machine only in daylight.
Stay alert for hidden hazards or traffic.
Keep all nuts and bolts tight and keep the equipment in good operating condition.

CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 7
Figure 2
Pneumatic
Tires
Starter Cord
Gas Fill
Engagement
Handle
Splitting Wedge
Engine
Mount/Belt
Tensioner
Cradle or
optional
Tray (shown)
Ram
Support
Leg
Belt Guar
d
Tow Hitch
Flywheels
Safety Interlock
Leve
r
Belt
s
Manual Start
Electric Start
Key Switch
Start
Run
Off
Chapter 2: Setting Up The DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER
It may be helpful to familiarize yourself with the controls and features of your DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER as shown in Figure 2
before beginning these procedures. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to contact us at www.DRpower.com.
DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER Controls and Features
Fuel Shut-off
Throttle
Lever
Ignition Switch
On
Of
f
Choke
Lever

8DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
Specifications
RapidFire Pro RapidFire Pro-XL (manual start) RapidFire Pro-XL (elec. start)
Engine DR 5.8hp (see engine manual
for specifications)
B&S, 9.50 CR (see engine
manual for specifications)
B&S, 9.50 XR Subaru 6hp
(see engine manual for
f
Wedge Height 6-1/4" 6-1/4" 6-1/4"
Log Capacity Length 24 inches, Diameter
30 inches*
Length 24 inches, Diameter 30
inches*
Length 24 inches, Diameter
30 inches*
Cycle Time 3 seconds (approx.) 3 seconds (approx.) 3 seconds (approx.)
Tires 16" 16" 16"
Beam Height 26" 26" 26"
Overall Height 48.3" 48.3" 48.3"
Overall Length w/ Tray 100.9" 100.9" 100.9"
Overall Length w/out Tray 83.5" 83.5" 83.5"
Width 46.8" 46.8" 46.8"
Splitter Weight w/ Tray 395 lbs. (179kg) 435 lbs. (197kg) 440 lbs. (200kg)
Splitter Weight w/out Tray 363 lbs. (165kg) 403 lbs. (183kg) 408 lbs. (185kg)
Flywheel Weight 55 lbs. (34kg) 74 lbs. (34kg) 74 lbs. (25kg)
Flywheel Diameter 18-1/4" 18-1/4" 18-1/4"
Flywheel Max RPM 400 RPM 400 RPM 400 RPM
*The diameter listed is indicative of the maximum suggested size - a small log can be difficult to split when it contains knots or a
particularly tough fiber. On the other hand, it may not be difficult to split logs with regular fibers even if its diameter exceeds the
maximum indicated above.
Assembling the DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER
Tools and Supplies needed:
Utility Knife
Wire Cutters
Gloves
Two 9/16" Wrenches
Installing the Cradle Kit
Note: The Cradles are only needed if you did not purchase the Tray Kit. If you
purchased a Tray Kit then skip the Cradle instructions and go to the “Installing
the Tray Kit” section on page 9.
Parts Supplied in Cradle Kit (Figure 3):
Item # Part # Description Qty
1 .............321041 ............Bolt, Carriage, 3/8-16 X 1", GR5, ZP..... 6
2 .............313601 ............Cradle, Standard.................................... 2
3 .............313581 ............Mount, Cradle........................................ 1
4 .............333511 ............Bolt, Hex, Flange, 3/8-16 X 1.25".......... 4
5 .............333331 ............Nut, Nylon Lock, Flanged, 3/8-16......... 10
Compare the contents of the Cradle Shipping Box with the “Parts Supplied” list
above. If you have any questions please contact us at www.DRpower.com or call
1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637) for assistance.
1. Open the Cradle Box using a Utility Knife.
2. Cut the Straps that secure the Cradles together with Wire Cutters.
3. Support the end of the Beam with a Jack Stand or equivalent to position the
Beam parallel with the ground.
4
Figure 3
5
3
2
1

CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 9
4. Install the Tow Bar to the end of the Beam with four 3/8-16 X 2.5 Bolts and
Lock Nuts (from the product package) using two 9/16" Wrenches (Figure
4).
5. Pull the Hitch Clip and Clevis Pin from the Leg and fold it to the down
position. Align the holes and secure the Leg with the Clevis Pin and Hitch
Clip (Figure 5).
6. Remove the Jack Stand and lower the Splitter onto the Support Leg.
7. Install the front Cradle Bracket to the end of the Beam with four Bolts and
Locknuts (from the cradle package) using two 9/16" Wrenches (Figure 6).
8. For easier alignment in the following step, slightly loosen the Side Bracket
Hardware using a 9/16" Wrench (Figure 7).
9. Install the Cradles to the front and side Brackets using three Carriage Bolts
and Locknuts for each Cradle. Tighten all Cradle and Bracket hardware
using a 9/16" Wrench.
Installing the Tray Kit
Note: The following Tray Kit instructions only apply if you have purchased a
Tray Kit. If you did not purchase the Tray Kit, you have already installed the
Cradles as described in the previous section and can now continue to the
“Adding Oil and Gasoline” section on the next page.
Parts Supplied in Tray Kit (Figure 8):
Item # Part # Description Qty
1 .............313631 ............Table, Log (not shown)......................... 1
2 .............321041 ............Bolt, Carriage, 3/8-16 X 1", GR5, ZP..... 4
3 .............333331 ............Nut, Nylon Lock, Flanged, 3/8-16......... 4
4 .............150431 ............Bolt, HHCS, 3/8-16 X 1-1/4", GR5........ 4
5 .............112411 ............Washer, Flat, 5/16", USS, ZP................ 4
6 .............180811 ............Washer, Lock, 3/8"................................ 4
Compare the contents of the Tray Kit with the “Parts Supplied” list above. If you
have any questions please contact us at www.DRpower.com or call 1-800-DR-
OWNER (376-9637) for assistance.
Cradles
Figure 7
Carriage Bolts
and Locknuts
Side
Bracket
Hitch Clip
and Clevis Pin
Figure 5
Support
Leg
Front Cradle
Bracket
Figure 6
Bolts and
Locknut
s
4
Figure 8
3
2 5
6
Tow Bar
Figure 4
Bolts and
Lock Nuts

10 DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
1. Support the end of the Beam with a Jack Stand or equivalent to position the
Beam parallel with the ground.
2. Install the Tow Bar to the Tray with four 3/8-16 X 2.5 Bolts and Lock Nuts
(from product package) using two 9/16" Wrenches (Figure 9).
3. Pull the Hitch Clip and Clevis Pin from the Leg and fold it to the down
position. Align the holes and secure the Leg with the Clevis Pin and Hitch
Clip (Figure 10).
4. For easier alignment in the following step, slightly loosen the Side Bracket
Hardware using a 9/16" Wrench (Figure 11).
5. Position the Tray onto the Side Brackets and install the four Carriage Bolts
and Locknuts (from the tray kit) by hand.
6. Install the four Bolts, Lock Washers and Flat Washers (from the tray kit) to
secure the Tray to the end of the Beam using a 9/16" Wrench (Figure 12).
7. Tighten all remaining Tray hardware using a 9/16" Wrench.
Adding Oil and Gasoline
Engine Oil See Engine Manual for specific Engine capacities and
specifications
Fuel Unleaded gasoline
NOTE: Use only the recommended high detergent engine oil. Other types of oil
could cause problems operating your machine. Please refer to your Engine Owner’s
Manual for detailed oil information.
Supplies Needed:
Clean Rag
Engine Oil
1. Position the machine so the Engine is level. Remove the Oil Fill/Dipstick
(Figure 13) and clean the end of it with a rag.
Oil
Check/Fill
Figure 13
The Engine must be level to get an accurate reading when adjusting the
amount of oil. If the machine is not level, the oil level reading will not be
accurate and may cause engine damage.
Tray
Figure 9
Bolts and Locknuts
Support
Le
g
Hitch Clip
and Clevis Pin
Figure 10
Support
Leg
Tray
Figure 11
Side Brackets
Bolts and
Locknuts
Bolt, Lock Washer
and Flat Washer
Figure 12
Tray
Beam

CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 11
Gas Cap
Figure 14
2. Machines are shipped with no oil. Initially add 16 oz. of the oil
recommended by the Engine Manufacturer. Wait one minute for the oil to
settle.
3. Replace the Dipstick, but DO NOT screw it in to ensure an accurate reading
and then remove it to check the oil level (clean the Dipstick with the clean
rag after checking).
4. Continue adding a few ounces of oil at a time, rechecking the Dipstick until
the oil reaches the fill mark. Be careful not to overfill.
5. Replace the Dipstick and screw all the way down when full.
6. Remove the Gas Fill Cap and fill the Gas Tank with fresh, unleaded gas (with
a minimum of 85 Octane) to approximately 1" to 1-1/2" below the top of the
fill neck to allow for fuel expansion (Figure 14). Be careful not to overfill.
Install the Gas Fill Cap before starting the engine. See your Engine Owner’s
Manual for more detailed information.
NOTE: To refill the gas tank, turn the engine OFF and let the engine cool at least
five minutes before removing the gas fill cap.
Check the Tire Pressure
Tools Needed:
Tire Pressure Gauge
Air Compressor
1. Remove the Valve Stem Protective Cap (Figure 15) and check the tire
pressure with a Tire Pressure Gauge.
2. Check what the manufacturers recommended pressure is that is stamped on
the side of the Tire.
3. If the pressure is too low, add air through the Valve Stem with an air hose.
4. Replace the Valve Stem Protective Cap when finished.
Connect the Battery (electric start models)
1. Connect the Black Negative Terminal onto the negative Battery Lug (Figure
16).
Battery
Figure 16
Negative
Terminal
Valve Stem
Protective Cap
Figure 15
We highly recommend the use of fuel treatments in your fuel to prevent
Carburetor fouling.
Do not over inflate the tires. Inflate to the manufacturers recommended
pressure found on the tires.

12 DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
Operator
Zone
Operator
Zone
Figure 17
TOP VIEW
Chapter 3: Operating The DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER
It may be helpful to better familiarize yourself with the features of your Log
Splitter by reviewing Figure 1 in Chapter 2 before beginning the steps outlined in
this chapter.
Starting the Engine
Note: See the Engine Manual for more detailed and specific information on
operating the Engine.
1. Position your Log Splitter on flat, dry ground and chock the Wheels to
prevent the Splitter from moving during use.
2. Make sure the fuel shut-off valve is in the “ON” position (Figure 18).
3. Move the choke control lever to the CHOKE position to the left (should only
be needed if the engine is cold).
4. Move the throttle control lever to the FAST “Rabbit” position.
5. Manual Start: Turn the Ignition Switch to the “On” position (Figure 19).
Grasp the recoil starter handle and slowly pull until you feel resistance
(Figure 17). Let the cord retract a little bit then pull the cord rapidly to start
the engine. One or two pulls usually starts the engine.
6. Electric Start: Turn and hold the Key in the “Start” position until Engine
starts then let the Key return to run position (Figure 19).
7. Move the choke control lever (if used for cold engine) slowly back to the
OPEN position (to the right) when the engine is running well (Figure 18).
Note: If the Log Splitter has not been running (cold engine), warm up the engine by
running the engine at half throttle for 3 to 4 minutes, then advance the engine
throttle control to maximum speed.
Stopping the Engine
1. Move the Throttle Lever to Idle “Turtle” position (Figure 18).
2. Manual Start: Turn the Ignition Switch to the “Off” position (Figure 19).
3. Electric Start: Turn the Key to the “Off” position.
Manual Start Electric Start
Ignition Switch
On
Of
f
Key Switch
Start
Run
Off
Figure 19
Fuel Shut-off
Valve
Figure 18
Choke Control
Leve
r
Throttle Control
Lever
Recoil Starter
Handle
Fuel Shut-off
Valve
Figure 18
Choke Control
Leve
r
Throttle Control
Lever
Recoil Starter
Handle
Read and understand all instructions, safety precautions, and/or
warnings listed in “Chapter 1 General Safety Rules” before operating this
DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER. If any doubt or question arises about the
correct or safe method of performing anything found in this manual,
please contact our Customer Service Representatives at our toll free
number: 1-800-DR-OWNER (376-9637).
When operating the Log Splitter, make sure you are standing in the safe
operating area (OPERATOR ZONE) as shown in Figure 17. You must stay
in the safe operating area at all times when the ram is in motion (whether
extending or retracting). Never place any part of your body into a position
that causes an unsafe operating condition.

CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 13
Hands on
Sides of Wood
Figure 23
Wood
A
gainst
Wedge
Splitting
Note: All logs should be no longer than 24". Use the following photos for the correct
and incorrect methods of splitting logs. Never split a log using an incorrect or
unsafe method.
1. Place the log on the Log Splitter. Grasp the log on the sides near the middle
of the block (Figure 23). Center the log, side-to-side, on the rail of the Log
Splitter, making sure that one end is against the Splitting Wedge.
Figure 20
Do not place your hands on the ends of the log when loading the Log
Splitter. This is a very UNSAFE method and could result in injury to your
hands (Figure 20).
Do not reach or step across the beam while the Log Splitter is running.
This is a very UNSAFE method which could cause personal injury or even
death.
Figure 21
Figure 22
The engagement Handle must be held fully forward against the hard stop
when splitting. Failure to do so may result in kickback of the Handle.
Never attempt to split wood across the grain. The Log Splitter was not
designed for cross-grain splitting. Doing so could damage the Log
Splitter and may cause personal injury (Figure 21).
Make sure 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 (Figure 22).
THE RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER OPERATES DIFFERENTLY THAN A
HYDRAULIC SPLITTER. NOT OPERATING THE MACHINE PROPERLY WILL
RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE MACHINE. ALWAYS FOLLOW THESE
NOTICES:
Do not be timid. A rapid movement of the Engagement Handle is
necessary for the Rack and Pinion to engage and disengage fully without
damage.
The Engagement Handle should never be stopped in any location
between the fully forward or fully backward positions.
Do not hold the Handle in the forward position when the Ram stops
moving forward. Always pull the Engagement Handle RAPIDLY to the
back (Auto-Retract) position as soon as the Log is split or when the Ram
is at the end of the stroke or when the Ram stops moving forward due to
a tough log.

14 DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
2. With one hand, lift and hold the Safety Interlock Lever up, then RAPIDLY
press the Engagement Handle fully forward until it contacts the hard stop
and hold firmly until the Log is split (Figure 24).
3. IMMEDIATELY AFTER the log is split, pull and hold the Engagement Handle
to the Auto-Retract position to allow the Ram to return. If the Ram stops
before the end of the stroke while splitting a tough log, quickly pull the
Engagement Handle back to the Auto-Retract position.
Splitting Tough Logs
If the Ram stops before the end of the stroke while splitting a tough Log, quickly
pull the Engagement Handle back to the Auto-Retract position. Let the Ram
return and allow the Flywheels to gain momentum for another full power split.
Figure 24
Engagement
Handle
1
2
Safety
Interlock
Lever

CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 15
Chapter 4: Maintaining The DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER
Regular maintenance is the way to ensure the best performance and long life of your machine. Please refer to this manual and the
engine manufacturer's owner's manual for maintenance procedures. Service intervals listed in the checklist below supersede
those listed in the engine manufacturer's owner's manual.
Regular Maintenance Checklist
PROCEDURE BEFORE EACH USE EVERY 10 HOURS EVERY 25 HOURS EVERY 100 HOURS
Check Engine Oil Level ▲
Check General Equipment Condition ▲
Perform Rail Maintenance ▲
Check Belts ▲
Grease Engagement Handle ▲
Check Tire Pressure ▲
Clean Engine Exterior and Cooling
Fi
▲
Change Engine Oil 1st time 5 hours ▲
Replace Air Filter ▲
Replace Spark Plug ▲
Engine Service
Refer to the engine manufacturer’s manual for engine maintenance.
Lubrication
All Bearings of your Splitter are sealed units and should have sufficient lubricant
to last the life of your machine with normal use. Perform machine lubrication
per the following instructions.
Changing Engine Oil
One of the easiest methods to remove oil from this Engine is to use a siphon
style Oil Extractor. If you do not have one you can purchase it from us at
www.DRpower.com.
Tools and Supplies needed:
Clean Approved Container for used Oil
9/16" Wrench (Subaru)
10mm Wrench (DR)
1. Place an approved Container under the Oil Plug.
2. Remove the Oil Drain Plug with a 9/16" Wrench (Subaru) or a 10mm
Wrench (DR) to drain the Oil into the Container (Figure 25).
3. Reinstall the Oil Drain Plug.
4. Add oil as described in “Adding Oil and Gasoline” in Chapter 2.
Before performing any maintenance procedure or inspection, stop the engine, wait five minutes to allow all parts to cool.
Disconnect the spark plug wire, keeping it away from the spark plug. Disconnect the Battery Terminals (Electric start only).
Figure 26
Top of Rail
Oil Drain
Plug
Figure 25

16 DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
Rail Maintenance
Between each use of the LOG SPLITTER, we recommend applying a rust
preventative (Fluid Film or equivalent) to any bare metal areas on the top of the
rail (Figure 26). This will assure the smoothest return action of the ram.
Greasing the Engagement Handle and Yoke
Tools and Supplies needed:
9/16" Wrench
Extended Hose Grease Gun with all Purpose Grease
Clean Rags
1. Remove the two Flange Bolts and Washers at the front of the right side
Guard and the two locknuts and Washers at the rear of the guard using a
9/16" Wrench. Remove the Guard from the Splitter (Figure 27).
2. Clean the Engagement Handle and Yoke Grease Fittings with a clean Rag
(Figure 28 and 29).
3. Grease the Engagement Handle Grease Fitting with a few pumps of All
Purpose Grease.
Note: If there is a Height Adjustment Bolt in front of the Yoke Grease Fitting
preventing access (Figure 30), you will need to remove it using a 9/16" Wrench.
Not all machines have the Height Adjustment Bolt.
4. Grease the Yoke with a few pumps of All Purpose Grease.
5. Reinstall and adjust the Height Adjust Bolt only enough so the Handle is not
touching the
Belt (Figure 31).
Hold the Bolt still
while tightening
the Jam Nut using
two 9/16"
Wrenches
(Figure 30).
6. Reinstall the
Guard.
Figure 29
Engagement Handle
Grease Fitting
Yoke Grease
Fitting
Figure 28
Engagement
Handle
Grease
Fitting
Yoke
Grease
Fitting
Flange Bolts
and Flat
Washer
s
Figure 27
Safety
Interlock
Leve
r
Guard
Flange Locknuts
and Flat Washers
Figure 31
Clearance
Belt
Safety Lever
Figure 30
Safety Lever
Height Adjust
Bolt
Safety
Lever

CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 17
Changing and Adjusting the Belts
Tools and Supplies needed:
Two 9/16" Wrenches
DR Belts
1. Remove the two Flange Bolts and Washers at the front of the right side
Guard and the two Locknuts and Washers at the rear of the guard using a
9/16" Wrench. Remove the Guard from the Splitter (Figure 32).
2. Loosen the front two Engine Mount Pivot Bolts and Locknuts with two 9/16"
Wrenches (Figure 33).
3. Loosen the rear two Angle Setting Bolts with Flat Washers using two 9/16"
Wrench.
4. Pivot the Mount up slightly and remove the Belts.
Note: The weight of the Engine should be enough to tension the Belts properly but
depending on hardware looseness and cleanliness of Engine Mount pivot
area, you may need to push down slightly to aid in proper tension. The Belts
perform best with a slight amount of slack to allow for some slippage when
the Wedge encounters a tough log. Too much tension may stall the engine or
slip the belt on the engine pulley.
5. Install the new Belts and adjust tension as needed.
6. Tighten the two Engine Mount Bolts that are at the center of the machine
(shown) first and then tighten the outer two Bolts.
7. Reinstall the Guard.
Adjusting the Rack Alignment
Tools and Supplies needed:
9/16" Wrench
7/16" Wrench
1. Remove the two Flange Bolts and Washers at the front of the right side
Guard and the two flanged locknuts and Washers at the rear of the guard
using a 9/16" Wrench. Remove the Guard from the Splitter (Figure 34).
2. Pull the Ram out enough to disconnect the Return Springs from the Ram
Bearing Hardware (Figure 35) and pull the Ram out to the Wedge.
3. Center the Rack to the Frame.
Flange Bolts
and Flat
Washer
s
Figure 34
Safety
Interlock
Leve
r
Guard
Flange Locknuts
and Flat Washers
Flange Bolts
and Flat
Washer
s
Figure 32
Safety
Interlock
Leve
r
Guard
Flange Locknuts
and Flat Washers
Front Bolts
and Locknuts
Figure 33
Loosen Belt
s
Ti
g
hten Belt
s
Rear Bolts and
Flat Washers
Spring
Figure 35
Ram
Bearing

18 DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
4. Loosen the Jam Nuts with a 9/16" Wrench and turn the Carriage Bolts with a
10mm Wrench until they touch the Rack (Figure 36).
5. Turn each Carriage Bolt back away from Rack two turns.
6. Tighten the Locknuts against the Frame to lock the Carriage Bolts into place.
7. Replace the Guard.
Adjusting the Steel Bushing Over Center
Tools needed:
Two 9/16" Wrenches
9/16" Socket and Ratchet
1. Remove the two Flange Bolts and Washers at the front of the right side
Guard and the two flanged locknuts and Washers at the rear of the guard
using a 9/16" Wrench. Remove the Guard from the Splitter (Figure 37).
2. Loosen the Stop Bolt Jam Nuts (Figure 38).
3. Lift the Safety Interlock Lever and push the Engagement Handle forward to
position the Steel Bushing Yoke as close to vertical as you can and hold it
there (Figure 39).
4. Rotate the Stop Bolts until they touch the Steel Bushing Yoke. Turn the Bolt
back out of the Frame counterclockwise 1-1/4 revolutions. Tighten the Jam
Nuts with a 9/16" Wrench to lock the Stop Bolts at this position.
5. Replace the Guard.
Stop
Bolts
Figure 38
J
am
Nuts
Yoke
Carriage
Bolt
s
Figure 36
Rack
Frame
J
am Nut
J
am Nut
Vertical Position
Figure 39
Over Center
Position
Rack
Pinion
Steel
Bushin
g
Forward Stop
A
djustment
Back o
f
Yoke
Do not adjust more than 1-1/4 revolutions when adjusting off center.
Adjustment too far off center will not allow the Rack Teeth to engage fully and
will cause damage to the Splitter.
Flange Bolts
and Flat
Washer
s
Figure 37
Safety
Interlock
Leve
r
Guard
Flange Locknuts
and Flat Washers

CONTACT US AT www.DRpower.com 19
Replacing the Wheels
Tools and Supplies needed:
Channel lock Pliers
Clean Rags
Adjustable Wrench
Needle Nose Pliers
Jack and Jack Stands
Hammer and Wood Block
1. Jack the Splitter off the ground and secure with Jack Stands.
2. Remove the Dust Cap from the Wheel Assembly with Channel Lock Pliers
(Figure 40).
3. Straighten the ends of the Cotter Pin with Needle Nose Pliers so the Cotter
Pin can be pulled from the hole in the Axle (Figure 41).
4. Remove the Castle Nut with the Channel Lock Pliers.
5. Pull the Wheel assembly and Taper Bearing from The Axle (Figure 42).
6. Slide a Wheel Assembly onto the Axle Shaft with the Valve Stem facing out.
The open side of the Wheel Hub with the loose Taper Bearing will be facing
towards you.
7. Screw the Castle Nut onto the Axle and tighten it with an Adjustable Wrench
to seat the Bearings (Figure 41).
8. Back the Castle Nut off and then snug it up to the Bearing lightly.
9. Insert a Cotter Pin through the slots of the Castle Nut and into the hole in
the Axle.
10. Bend the ends of the Cotter Pin with Needle Nose Pliers to secure it.
11. Place the Dust Cap onto the Wheel Assembly and secure it by placing a
piece of wood over it and pounding lightly with a Hammer until it is seated
against the lip (Figure 43).
12. Jack the back of the Splitter up and remove the Jack Stands.
13. Lower the Splitter to the ground.
Replacing the Battery
Tools Needed:
Two 7/16" Wrenches
The Splitter must be supported carefully so it does not tip over when jacking
or it could cause Splitter damage or personal injury.
Dust Cap
Figure 40
Fi
g
ure 41
Castle
Nut
Cotter Pin
Fi
g
ure
43
Wheel
A
ssembly
Dust Cap
Fi
g
ure 42
Taper
Bearing
Valve
Stem
When working with batteries take care not to short the positive terminal with
the battery strap

20 DR® RAPIDFIRE™ LOG SPLITTER
1. Disconnect the Battery Terminals (Figure 44).
2. Remove the Bolts and Locknuts that secure the Battery Strap using two
7/16" Wrenches.
3. Remove the Strap and the old Battery.
4. Install the new Battery.
5. Install the Battery Strap and secure with the Bolts and Locknuts using two
7/16" Wrenches.
6. Attach the Battery Terminals. Black Wire to the negative black Terminal and
Red Wire to the positive red Terminal.
Battery Care (electric start models)
Proper care can extend the life of a Battery. Follow these recommendations to
ensure your Battery’s best performance and long life:
Do not allow the Battery charge to get too low. If the machine is not used, charge the Battery every 4 – 6 weeks. Operate the
engine for at least 45 minutes to maintain proper Battery charge.
Store an unused Battery in a dry environment with temperatures between +40°F (+5°C) and +95°F (+35°C). Make sure the
storage temperatures will never be outside of these limits. The lower the storage temperature is within the specified
temperature, the better as the battery will discharge more slowly at low temperatures.
Do not charge an already charged Battery. In theory, you cannot overcharge our Battery with a trickle charger; however, when a
Battery is fully charged and the charger is still on, it generates heat that could be harmful to the Battery. A fully charged Battery
will read 12V-13.2V with a voltmeter.
Do not continue to crank your Engine when the Battery charge is low.
Charging the Battery
Operate the Engine for at least 45 minutes to maintain proper Battery charge. If the Battery loses its charge, you will need to use a
trickle charger (like the DR Battery Charger) to recharge it. The Charger should have an output of 12 volts DC at no more than 2
amps.
At 1 amp the Battery may need to be charged for as long as 48 hours.
At 2 amps, the Battery may need to be charged for as long as 24 hours.
NOTE: Using the Recoil Starter and then running the Engine will not recharge a dead or significantly discharged Battery.
To connect a Battery Charger to your DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER, follow the steps listed below.
1. Attach the Black (-) alligator clipped wire from the Charger Adapter to the Negative (-) terminal of the Battery, then attach the
Red (+) alligator clipped wire to the Positive (+) Battery terminal.
2. Plug the Charger into a standard wall outlet.
Typically, the Battery takes between 6 and 8 hours to fully charge. Do not leave the charger on the battery longer than
24 hours for a 2 amp charger, or 48 hours for a 1 amp charger as you could potentially damage the battery..
You can charge the Battery many times. The Battery lasts longer if you charge it before it is fully drained. Keep it fully
charged and at room temperature when not using your DR RAPIDFIRE LOG SPLITTER.
If the Battery does not hold its charge for very long under normal conditions or it simply won’t hold a charge, then
replace it. You can purchase replacement Batteries directly from us. To install your new Battery, follow the directions
on the previous page.
When you are finished charging the battery, disconnect the charger from the outlet first, then disconnect the battery charger wires
from the battery. If you leave the battery charger wires connected to the battery, the battery will discharge itself back into the
charger.
Battery
Figure 44
Battery
Terminals
Bolt and
Locknut
Battery
Strap
This manual suits for next models
1
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