MTA 401628MTA User manual

28 TON
LOG SPLITTER
ASSEMBLY & OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
This safety alert symbol identifies important safety messages in this manual.
Failure to follow this important safety information may result in serious injury
or death.
LS111-793-1109
Rev. 0
MODEL NO.
401628MTA
Operator’s Manual

Table of Contents
Page(s)
Important Safety Information................................................................................................................. 1-6
Intended Use ......................................................................................................................... 1
Personal Protective Equipment ............................................................................................... 1
Safety Decals ....................................................................................................................... 1-2
General Safety ...................................................................................................................... 3
Preparation of the Log ........................................................................................................... 3
Work Area ........................................................................................................................... 3
Operation of the Log Splitter ..................................................................................................4
Repair and Maintenance Safety ............................................................................................. 4-5
Hydraulic Safety .................................................................................................................. 5
Fire Prevention ..................................................................................................................... 5-6
Towing Safe t y . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. ..... 6
Assembly Instructions ...................................................................................................................... 7-11
Operating Instructions ....................................................................................................................... 13-14
Engine Oil Recommendations ................................................................................................ 13
Hydraulic Oil Recommendations ............................................................................................ 13
Starting Instructions ............................................................................................................... 14
Operation .............................................................................................................................. 14
Tow i n g . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . . .. . ............... 14
Maintenance .......................................................................................................................................... 15
Parts Breakdown Illustrations................................................................................................................ 12-13
Specifications ......................................................................................................................................... Back Cover

WARNING: Read and thoroughly understand all instructions and safety information before assem-
bling
or operating this log splitter. Failure to do so may cause serious injury or death. Do not allow anyone
to operate this log splitter who has not read this manual. As with all power equipment, a log splitter
can be dangerous if assembled or used improperly. Do not operate this log splitter if you have doubts
or questions concerning safe operation. Call our customer service department at 1-800-525-8322
to address these concerns.
Before operating the Honda engine that powers this log splitter, carefully read and thoroughly under-
stand all operating instructions and safety information contained in the Honda engine owner’s
manual that accompanies this log splitter.
Si no entiende ingles, se prefiere que busque alguien que interprete las instrucciones para usted.
NEVER use this log splitter for any other purposes than splitting wood. It is designed for this use only. Any other use can
cause serious injury or death.
PEPER
PERPERSONALSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
BEFORE operating this log splitter make sure that you wear safety gear such as goggles or safey glasses, steel toed
shoes and tight fitting gloves (without loose cuffs or draw strings). Always wear a protective hearing device when operat-
ing this log splitter.
NEVER wear loose clothing or jewelry that can be caught by moving parts of the log splitter. Keep clothing and hair away
from all moving parts when operating this log splitter.
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
SAFETY DECALS
Make sure that all safety warning decals are in good condition and readable. Always replace missing or defaced decals.
Contact MTA Distributors at 1-800-264-0225 for replacement decals.
PART NUMBER: 52020000
LOCATION: TOP, FRONT END OF TONGUE
INTENDED USE
Page 1
PART NUMBER: ORDER 52057900
LOCATION: HYDRAULIC CYLINDER
BELOW DECAL 51018900

PART NUMBER: 51018900
LOCATION: TOP OF HYDRAULIC
CYLINDER
PART NUMBER: 52023200
LOCATION: HYDRAULIC TANK
LOWER TANK, RIGHT CORNER
PART NUMBER: 52055200
LOCATION: BOTH STRIPPER
PLATES AND CYLINDER
Page 2
PART NUMBER: ORDER 52057900
LOCATION: TOP OF HYDRAULIC
TANK BY FILL HOLE
PART NUMBER: ORDER
52057900
LOCATION: FRONT OF TONGUE
PART NUMBER: ORDER
52057900
LOCATION: SIDE OF BEAM

GENERAL SAFETY
EVER
NEVER allow children to operate this log splitter. NEVER allow adults lacking proper instructions and understanding to
operate this log splitter.
KEEP all people and pets a minimum of 10 feet away from your work area when operating this log splitter. Only the
operator is to be near the log splitter during use.
NEVER actuate the control until all people are clear of the work area.
NEVER operate the log splitter when under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.
NEVER allow a person who is tired or otherwise not alert to operate the log splitter.
PREPARATION OF THE LOG
Both ends of the log should be cut as square as possible to help prevent the log from riding out of the splitter during
operation. Do not split logs greater than 26 inches (66 centimeters) in length.
WORK AREA
NEVER operate the log splitter on slippery, wet, muddy or icy ground.
ONLY operate your log splitter on level ground. Operating on a slope could cause the log splitter to roll over or logs to fall
off.
ONLY use this log splitter OUTSIDE. Using a log splitter indoors CAN KILL YOU IN MINUTES. Never operate your log
splitter in any enclosed area, or in a partly enclosed area, or in an area where the exhaust can enter open windows, doors
or vents . The Honda engine that powers this log splitter emits exhaust fumes. Exhaust fumes contain poisonous carbon
monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas which you cannot see or smell. Breathing carbon monoxide can cause loss of
consciousness and may lead to death. Do not stand or work in the area where the exhaust emits from the muffler.
NEVER attempt to move your log splitter over hilly or uneven terrain without a tow vehicle or adequate help.
ALWAYS block the wheels to prevent movement of the log splitter while in operation.
ONLY operate your log splitter in daylight or under good artificial light.
ALWAYS keep the work area clean. Remove split wood around your log splitter immediately so that you don’t stumble
over it.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious injury or death.
Page 3
ALWAYSEread the operator’s manual before operation. It is located in the plastic canister on the tongue.

KNOW how to stop the log splitter and disengage the controls before operating it.
NEVER place hands or feet between the log and splitting wedge during forward or reverse stroke. Serious injury or death
could result.
NEVER straddle or step over the log splitter during operation.
NEVER reach or bend over the log splitter to pick up a log.
NEVER try to split two logs on top of each other.
NEVER try to cross split a log.
NEVER attempt to load your log splitter when the ram or wedge is in motion.
ALWAYS use your hand to operate the control lever on the valve. NEVER use your foot, a rope or any extension device.
NEVER move the log splitter while the engine is running. Shut off the engine even if you are leaving the log splitter for a
short period of time.
ALWAYS avoid contact with the muffler and other hot areas of the engine during operation or after running to prevent
burns.
REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE SAFETY
NEVER operate your log splitter when it is in poor mechanical condition or in need of repair.
Periodically check that all nuts, bolts, screws, hydraulic fittings and hose clamps are tight.
NEVER alter your log splitter in any manner. Such alterations may cause your log splitter to be unsafe and will void the
warranty.
Perform all recommended maintenance procedures before using your log splitter.
Replace all damaged or worn parts immediately.
NEVER tamper with the engine to run it at excessive speeds. The maximum engine speed is preset by the manufacturer
and is within safety limits. Before operating, maintaining or servicing the Honda engine that powers this log splitter,
carefully read and thoroughly understand all operating instructions, safety information and maintenance information
contained in the Honda engine owner’s manual that accompanies this log splitter
Page 4
OPERATION OF THE LOG SPLITTER
ONLY operate the log splitter from the operator zone as
shown in the diagram. The operator has the safest and
most effcient access to the control valve and the beam
in this location.Failure to operate the log splitter in this
position can result in serious injury or death.
OPERATOR
ZONE
TONGUE
FOOT PLATE
ENGINE
BEAM

HYDRAULIC SAFETY
The hydraulic system of your log splitter requires careful inspection along with the mechanical parts. Be sure to
replace frayed, kinked, cracked or otherwise damaged hydraulic hoses or hydraulic components.
NEVER check for leaks of hydraulic fluid with your hand. Fluid escaping from a small hole can be almost invisible.
Escaping fluid under pressure can have sufficient force to penetrate skin causing serious personal injury or even death.
Leaks can be detected by passing a piece of cardboard over the suspected leak and looking for discoloration.
ALWAYS seek professional medical attention immediately if injured by escaping hydraulic fluid. Serious infection or
reaction can develop if proper medical treatment is not administered immediately.
ALWAYS be sure to relieve all pressure by shutting off the engine and moving the valve control handle back and forth
should it become necessary to loosen or remove any hydraulic fitting.
NEVER remove the cap from the hydraulic tank or reservoir while the log splitter is running. The tank could contain hot oil
under pressure which could result in serious injury.
NEVER adjust the hydraulic valve. The pressure relief valve on your log splitter is preset at the factory. Only a qualified
service technician should perform this adjustment.
FIRE PREVENTION
NEVER operate your log splitter near a flame or spark. Hydraulic oil and gasoline are flammable and can explode.
NEVER fill the gas tank while the engine is hot or running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling. Read and follow the
refueling instructions contained in the Honda engine owner’s manual that accompanies this log splitter.
NEVER smoke while operating or refueling your log splitter. Gas fumes can easily explode.
ONLY refuel your log splitter in a clear area with no gas fumes or spilled gas.
ALWAYS use an approved fuel container.
ALWAYS replace the gas cap securely.
If gasoline has spilled, move the log splitter away from the area of the spill and avoid creating any source of ignition until
the spilled gas has evaporated.
ALWAYS take a Class B fire extinguisher with you when operating this log splitter in dry areas as a precautionary
measure against possible flying sparks.
Page 5
ALWAYS turn the fuel shut off valve on the engine to the “OFF” position before towing the log splitter. Failure to do so
may result in flooding the engine.
ALWAYS remove the spark plug wire before performing any service or repair on your log splitter.
ALWAYS check the level of hydraulic oil and engine oil before operation.
ALL replacement parts must meet manufacturer’s specifications.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
This log splitter is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-
covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester
meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in efffective working
order by the operator. In the state of California a spark arrester is required by law. Other states have similar laws. Federal
laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester muffler (optional by manufacturer) is available as an accessory at your
nearest engine dealer. Always check the legal requirements in your area.
TOWING SAFETY
ALWAYS check all local and state regulations regarding towing, licensing, and lights before towing your log splitter.
ALWAYS check before towing to make sure that the log splitter is correctly and securely attached to the towing vehicle
and that the safety chains are secured to the hitch or bumper of the vehicle with enough slack to allow turning. Always
use a Class I, 2” ball with this log splitter.
NEVER carry any cargo or wood on your log splitter.
NEVER allow anyone to sit or ride on your log splitter.
ALWAYS disconnect your log splitter from the towing vehicle before operating it.
ALWAYS be careful when backing up with your log splitter in tow. It could jackknife.
ALWAYS allow for added length of your log splitter when turning, parking, crossing interesections and in all driving
situations.
NEVER exceed 45 mph when towing your log splitter. Towing the log splitter at speeds higher than 45 mph could result
in loss of control, damage to the equipment , serious injury or death. Adjust towing speed for terrain and conditions.
Be extra cautious when towing over rough terrain especially railroad crossings.
ALWAYS check the log splitter brake lights before towing in the dark
Page 6
ALWAYS drain the fuel tank prior to storage to avoid the potential fire hazard.
ALWAYS store gasoline in an approved, tightly sealed container. Store the container in a cool, dry place.
NEVER store gasoline in the house or near a heating appliance.

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 401601O0 Beam Assembly 1
2 40127500 Beam Lock Assembly 1
3 40127200 Tongue Assembly 1
4 24087600 Manual Canister 1
5 40160600 Hour Meter 1
6 40035400 Wheel Hub 2
7 40035300 4.8 x 12” Wheel 2
8 40142000 Fender 2
9 401199LEA Tank Assembly 1
10 40160500 Light 2
11 40129100 Light Housing 2
12 40129000 License Plate Bracket 1
13 40160400 License Plate Light 1
NOTE: This log splitter was partially assembled at the factory. Refer to the drawing and parts list should it become
necessary to disassemble the unit for repair or replacement of parts.
STEP 1: Remove all the components from the crate. Inspect each piece for shipping damage. If any part is damaged,
contact your dealer or delivering carrier.
STEP 2: Insert the flat washer (2) into the wheel hub as shown. Screw on the 3/4” slotted nut (3) and tighten until bearing
play is removed and the wheel will still rotate freely. Install the cotter pin (4) through the hole in the spindle and
attach the hub cap (5). Repeat for the other wheel hub. The grease seal and the bearing cups are already
installed in the wheel hub.
Page 7
NO
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 40035400 Wheel Hub 2
2 O/L 3/4”FlatWasher 2
317102000 3/4”-16SlottedNut 2
4 O/L 1/8”x1-1/4”CotterPin 2
540033200 HubCap 2
O/L- Obtain locally. Common fasteners available through
hardware and farm stores.

step
STEP 3: Attach the two wheels (1) to the hubs on the tank assembly using the four lug nuts (2). Tighten nuts.
Page 8
ASSEMBLY NOTE: For easier mounting of the fenders go to step 9 now. After the fenders are mounted proceed
to step 3 below.
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 40035300 4.80 X 12” Wheel 2
2 17104100 Lug Nut 8
4
1
23
5
STEP 4: Attach the tongue assembly (1) to the tank/axle assembly (6) using two 1/2” NC x 4-1/2” hex cap bolts (2), two
1/2” flat washers (3), two 1/2” lock washers (4) and two 1/2” hex nuts (5). Make sure that the bolts are inserted
from left to right as shown on the drawing below. Tighten.
6
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 40127200 Tongue Assembly 1
2 O/L 1/2”NCx4-1/2”HexBolt2
3 O/L 1/2”FlatWasher 2
4 O/L 1/2”FlatWasher 2
5 O/L 1/2”NCHexNut 2
6 401199LEA Tank/Axle Assembly 1
O/L- Obtain locally. Common fasteners available through
hardware and farm stores.

STEP 5: Stand the beam (1) up on end. Two people may be required for this step to ensure safety. Make sure that the
beam is stable and on a level surface.Remove the pivot pin (2) and the clip pin (3) from the tank asembly (4).
Roll the tank/tongue assembly (4) into position between the two tabs on the beam (1). Use the upper two holes.
Slide the pivot pin (2) through the holes and lock in position with the clip pin (3).
1
2
3
4
STEP 6: Connect the end of the 1/2” x 38” presure hose (1) coming from the pump to the port on the bottom of the valve.
This is the “IN” port. Connect the end of the 1/2” x 56” pressure hose (2) coming from the oil filter on the tank to
the port on the top of the valve. This is the “OUT” port of the control valve.
1
2
1
2
Page 9
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 401413O0Beam 1
2 070122WCPivotPin 1
3 O/L1/2”-3/4”RClippin 1
4 ----- Tongue/Tankassembly1
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 390275001/2”X38”PressureHose1
2 390274003/4”x56”ReturnHose1
O/L- Obtain locally. Common fasteners available
through hardware and farm stores.

STEP 7: Loosely attach the latch assembly (1) to the bottom side of the beam as shown in the diagram using the
two 1/2” x 1-1/4” GR 5 hex cap bolts (4), the two 1/2” lock washers (3) and the two 1/2” hex nuts (2). Lower
the beam onto the tongue. Center the latch assembly on the tongue and tighten hardware.
Page 11
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 40127500 Beam Lock 1
2 O/L 1/2”HexNut 2
3 O/L 1/2”LockWasher 2
4 O/l 1/2”x1-1/4:GR5HexBolt2
STEP 8: Remove the lid from the canister (2) holding the owner’s manual to the engine side of the tongue using three
1/4” x 3/4” Grade 5 hex cap bolts (4) and three 1/4” flat washers (3).
Page 10
1
23
4
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 ----------- Canister Lid 1
2 24087600ManualCanister 1
3 O/L1/4”x3/4”GR5Bolt 3
4 O/L1/4”FlatWasher 3
O/L- Obtain locally. Common fasteners available
through hardware and farm stores.
O/L- Obtain locally. Common fasteners
available through hardware and farm stores.

STEP 10: Attach the hour meter (1) to the tongue using the screws supplied as shown below. See the instructions in the
hour meter kit for wiring and operation.
1
Page 11
STEP 9: Attach the two fenders (1) to the tank/axle using the four 1/4” NC x 3/4” hex cap bolts (3), the four 1/4” flat
washers (2), the four 1/4” lock washers (4) and the four 1/4” NC hex nuts (5). Tighten.
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 40142000 Fender 2
2 O/L 1/4”FlatWasher 4
3 O/L 1/4”NCx3/4”Bolt 4
4 O/L 1/4”LockWAsher 4
5 O/L 1/4”NCHexNut 4
O/L- Obtain locally. Common fasteners available
through hardware and farm stores.

TANK ASSEMBLY BREAKDOWN
ENGINE ASSEMBLY BREAKDOWN
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 17054400 5/16” X 1” UNF GR5 Bolt 4
2 17053900 5/16” x 1-1/4” GR5 Bolt 4
3 17030900 5/16” Regular Lock Washer 4
4 39053100 8 HP Honda Engine (provided 1
by MTA)
5 40081800 Pump Mount 1
6 400825L0 Jaw Coupler, 1” Bore 1
7 400826L0 Jaw Coupler, 1/2” Bore 1
8 400827L0 Rubber Spider 1
9 40034300 1/2” SQ. x 1-1/2” SQ. Key 1
10 39070900 Pump, 16 GPM 1
11 17020700 5/16”-18 UNC, Nylock Nut 4
BEAM ASSEMBLY BREAKDOWN
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 O/L 1/2” X 3-1/4” GR5 Bolt 1
2 O/L 1/2” Regular Lock Washer 1
3 O/L 1/2” Hex Nut 1
4 401413O0 Beam 1
5 40141800 Wedge 1
6 390119B0 4-1/2” x 24” Cylinder 1
7 07073100 Cylinder Pin w/Clip 1
8 390406SC Auto-Return Valve 1
9 39034300 1/2” NPT Nipple 1
10 39039100 90° Swivel Elbow, 3/4” 1
Male, 1/2” Female
11 39039000 45° Swivel Fitting, 3/4” 1
Male, 1/2” Female
12 39034600 1/2” Steel Tubing 1
13 39034700 1/2” Steel Tube Fitting 2
14 07093700 Cylinder Pin Clip 2
O/L- Obtain locally. Common fasteners available
through hardware and farm stores.
4
1
5
2
3
10
8
11
12
13
6
7
14
13
9
Page 12
4
53
1
2
96
8
7
11 10
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 O/L 1/2”-3/4” R Clip Pin 1
2 O/L5/16”-18UNCNylockNut 4
3 O/L 5/16” Flat Washer 8
4 O/L 5/16” x 1-1/2” GR5 Bolt 4
5 390349003/4”HexNipple 1
6 39036200StreetElbow,1/2”Female,3/4”Male1
7 39038100StraightFitting,3/4”NPTto1”Tube1
8 390387001/2”x56”ReturnHose 1
9 390388001/2”x38”PressureHose 1
10 39038900 1” ID Suction Hose 1
11 390604B0 Filter Base 1
390601A0 Filter Element 1
12 390730LEA Pump/Honda Engine Assembly 1
13 39031600 Worm Gear Clamp 3
14 40110300 Tank 1
15 071022WC Pivot Pin 1
16 33037500 Dip Stick/Breather Cap 1

TONGUE ASSEMBLY BREAKDOWN
ITEM NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 17280300 M10 x 1.5 Nylock Nut 2
2 17271600 M10 x 1.5 x 100mm GR5 Bolt 1
3 17272000 M10 x 1.5 x 120mm GR5 Bolt 1
4 17290800 M10 Flat Washer 6
5 40127200 Tongue with Jack 1
6 40034600 Hitch Ball Assembly 1
7 40032300 Safety Chain 1
CAUTION: DO NOT START OR RUN THE ENGINE BEFORE ADDING OIL IN THE HYDRAULIC RESERVOIR AND OIL IN
THE ENGINE.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: Read and thoroughly understand all instructions and safety information before operating
this log splitter. Failure to do so may cause serious injury or death. Do not allow anyone to operate
this log splitter who has not read this manual. As with all power equipment, a log splitter can be
dangerous if assembled or used improperly. Do not operate this log splitter if you have doubts or
questions concerning safe operation. Call our customer service department at 1-800-264-0225 to
address these concerns.
Si no entiende ingles, se prefiere que busque alguien que interprete las instrucciones para usted.
STEP 1: The hydraulic reservoir must be filled with the oil provided. AW46 hydraulic oil is recommended when oil is needed. Automatic
transmisssion fluid can be substituted and should be used instead of hydraulic oil when temperatures are below 32 degrees F. Use only
clean oil and take care to prevent dirt from entering the hydraulic reservoir. Fill the hydraulic tank with approximately 3.5 to 4 gallons of
hydraulic oil.
CAUTION: WHEN TIGHTENING THE BREATHER CAP ON THE TANK, POINT THE HOLE AWAY FROM THE ENGINE
AND THE OPERATOR ZONE.
ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS
For temperatures above 40 degrees F use an SAE 30W oil. Using mutigrade oil may increase oil consumption. Using SAE 30W oil below 40 degrees
F will resuilt in hard starting and possible engine bore damage.For temperatures below 40 degrees F use an SAE 10W-30 or SAE 5W-30 oil. Oil
capacity is about 1.16 quart (1.1 liter).
STEP 2: After the hydraulic reservoir and the engine crankcase are filled with oil, start the engine. The hydraulic pump should prime itself. With the
engine running, move the hydraulic valve lever toward the foot plate. This will cause the cylinder to extend and expel air. When the cylinder
is fully extended, retract it. Repeat this procedure several times. An erratic movement of the cylinder indicates that there is still air in the
system. Add about 1.0 to 1.5 gallons more. Five gallons will register just above the top fill line on the dip stick.The total capacity of the entire
hydraulic system is 6.5 gallons. NOTE: If the tank is overfilled it will tend to expel oil from the breather cap when the cylinder is retracted.
Cycle the cylinder again until it has a constant speed indicating that all air has been expelled.
Page 13
IMPORTANT: This log splitter comes complete with hydraulic oil and engine oil. Please follow the instructions below for filling the hydraulic
tank. Refer to the Briggs & Stratton engine owner’s manual for information on adding oil.

STARTING INSTRUCTIONS
Refer also to the Honda Engine Operating and Maintenance Instructions manual for your log splitter.
1) Move the fuel valve lever to the ON position.
2) To start a cold engine move the choke lever to the CLOSED position. To restart a warm engine leave the choke lever in the OPEN
position.
3) Move the throttle lever away from the MIN position, about 1/3 of the way toward the MAX position.
4) Turn the engine switch to the ON position.
5) Operate the starter (recoil starter). Pull the starter grip lightly until you bfeel resistance, then pull briskly. Return the starter grip gently.
Do not allow the starter grip to snap back against the engine. Return it gently to prevent damage to the starter.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
To stop the engine in an emergency, simply turn the engine switch to the OFF position. Under normal consitions, use the following
procedure.
1) Move the throttle lever to the MIN position.
2) Turn the engine switch to the OFF position.
3) Turn the fuel valve lever to the OFF position.
CAUTION:
NOTE: The engine maximum governed speed is preset at the factory at 3600 RPM no load speed. When splitting wood the throttle
should be set at the maximum speed to develop the horsepower required for the pump.
TURN FUEL SHUT OFF VALVE TO THE “OFF” POSITION PRIOR TO TOWING.FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN
FLOODING THE ENGINE.
OPERATION
WARNING: See safety information related to operation of the log splitter on page 3 and 4 of this manual. Make sure that you have the
recommended personal protective equipment described on page 1.
NOTE: For operation in wooded areas, obtain a spark arrestor for the exhaust system. See the engine operating and maintenance manual and
check with your authorized Honda service center. See also Fire Prevention on page 5 of this manual.
IMPORTANT:TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF THE HYDRAULIC CYLINDER, AVOID “BOTTOMING OUT” WEDGE PLATE TO THE FOOT
PIECE. TO CONFORM WITH INDUSTRY SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS, THE WEDGE STOPS 1.5 INCHES FROM
THE END OF THE STROKE.
TOWING
This log splitter is equipped with pneumatic tires, a Class I coupler (2 in. diameter ball required) and safety chains. Before towing, the safety chains
must be secured to the hitch or bumper of the vehicle. Local regulations should be checked regarding licensing, lights, towing, etc.Turn fuel shut off
valve on the engine to the “Off” position prior to towing. Failure to do so may result in flooding the engine. If you have the brake light kit , attach the
pigtail to the tow vehicle’s wiring harness. Make sure that the lights are visible and functioning prior to towing. The instructions for mounting the lights
are in the light kit box. Do not exceed 45 mph when towing this log splitter. See also Towing Safety on page 6 of this manual.
Page 14
1) Set up the log splitter in a clear, level area and block the wheels. Make sure that the suction port on the tank is always on the lower side
of the log splitter.
2) For horizontal operation place a log on the beam against the foot plate. Make sure the the log is securely on the foot plate and up against the
beam.To split wood in the vertical position, release the pin on the beam latch located near the front end of the beam. Carefully tilt the beam up until
the foot plate is sitting squarely on the ground and the log splitter is stable. Place the log on the foot plate up against the beam. When the beam is
returned to the horizontal position make sure the beam latch is securely locked down. See illustrations of beam latch in Step 7 on page 10.
3) With the engine running, depress the valve handle so that the cylinder will drive the wedge into the log. Extend the cylinder until the log splits or to
the end of its stroke. If the log has not completely split after the cylinder has reached the end of its extension, retract the cylinder.
IMPORTANT: Leaving the valve in the “actuate” position at the end of the stroke may damage the pump. Always use extra care when splitting
logs with unsquare ends.

Page 15
MAINTENANCE
1) Consult the operating and maintenance instructions of the engine manufacturer for engine care and maintenance.
2) Always check the oil level of the hydraulic reservoir before operation. Operating the log splitter without an adequate oil supply will cause
severe damage to the pump.
3) Change the oil filter after the first 25 hours of operation. There after change the oil filter every 100 hours or seasonally, whichever comes first.
4) To drain the hydraulic oil, loosen the clamp on the hose coming from the fitting on the bottom of the tank. It is located just to the right of the oil
filter.
5) If the wedge becomes dull or nicked, it can be removed and sharpened. Remove the 1/2 in. diameter bolt that connects the wedge to the cylinder.
hose from the valve. The hose from the valve may need to be removed. Carefully lift the cylinder to allow the wedge to slide forward. The wedge
can now be lifted off and sharpened.
6) Clean the breather cap after 25 hours of operation. Clean it more often when operated in dusty conditions. To clean, remove the breather cap
from the tank and flush with kerosene or liquid detergent to remove the dirt.
7) See also Repair and Maintenance Safety on page 4 of this manual.
8) All replacement parts must meet manufacturer’s specifications.

NOTES
Model No. ____________________ Serial No. _____________________________
Date of Purchase _______________ Place of Purchase _______________________
_______________________
_______________________
_______________________
IMPORTANT NOTICE
We, the manufacturer, reserve the right to change the product and/or specifications in this manual without notification.
The manual is for information usage only and the pictures and drawings depicted herein are for reference only.
Page 16

SPECIFICATIONS
AA 555 Hickory Hills Blvd.
Whites Creek, TN 37189
1-800-264-0225
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