Swisher LS412 User manual

Read and follow all Safety
Precautions and Instructions
before operating this
equipment.
LOG
SPLITTER
OWNER’S
MANUAL
1602 CORPORATE DRIVE, WARRENSBURG, MISSOURI 64093 PHONE [phone]
FAX [phone]
MODEL NO.
LS412
STARTING SERIAL #:
L205-332001
Manufacturing quality lawn care equipment since 1945
Safety
Assembly
Operation
Service and Adjustment
Repair Parts
Made In The
USA
IMPORTANT
swisherinc.com
11924
Rev.

2
In the event you have a claim under this warranty, you must return the product to an authorized service dealer.
All transportation charges, damage, or loss incurred during transportation of parts submitted for replacement or
repair under this warranty shall be borne by the purchaser. Should you have any questions concerning this
warranty, please contact us toll-free at 1-800-222-8183. The model number, serial number, date of purchase,
and the name of the authorized Swisher dealer from whom you purchased the splitter will be needed before any
warranty claim can be processed.
THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT APPLY TO ANY INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES AND ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES ARE LIMITED TO THE SAME TIME PERIODS
STATED HEREIN FOR ALL EXPRESSED WARRANTIES. Some states do not allow the limitation of
consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty may last, so the above limitations or
exclusions may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights,
which vary from state-to-state. This is a limited warranty as defined by the Magnuson-Moss Act of 1975.
LIMITED WARRANTY
The manufacturer’s warranty to the original consumer purchaser is: This product is free from defects in
materials and workmanship for a period of ONE (1) year from the date of purchase by the original consumer
purchaser. We will repair or replace, at our discretion, parts found to be defective due to materials or
workmanship. This warranty is subject to the following limitations and exclusions:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
WARRANTY………………....….2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS………3-4
ASSEMBLY……………………...5
OPERATION…………………….5-7
MAINTENANCE.…………………….6-7
DECALS…..………….……………….7
PARTS BREAKDOWN………………8-9
SPECIFICATIONS..…………………..11
1) Engine Warranty All engines utilized on our products have a separate warranty extended
to them by the individual engine manufacturer. Any engine service
difficulty is the responsibility of the engine manufacturer and in no
way is Swisher Mower Co., Inc. or its agents responsible for the engine
warranty. The Briggs & Stratton Engine Service Hot-Line is 1-800-
233-3723.
2) Commercial Use The warranty period for any product used for commercial or rental is
limited to ninety (90) days from the date of original purchase.
3) Limitation This warranty applies only to products which have been properly
assembled, adjusted, and operated in accordance with the instructions
contained within this manual. This warranty does not apply to any
product of Swisher Mower Co., Inc., that has been subject to alteration,
misuse, abuse, improper assembly or installation, shipping damage, or
to normal wear of product.
4) Exclusions Excluded from this warranty are normal wear, normal adjustments, and
normal maintenance. The pump, valve, and cylinder each carry separate
manufacture’s warranties. The valve and cylinder both carry a one (1) year
limited warranty. The pump carries a two (2) year limited warranty.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
WARNING:
The engine exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the state of California
to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
DANGER:
Your log splitter was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this
manual. As with any type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result
in serious injury. If you violate any of these rules, you may cause serious injury to yourself or others.
• Read and understand the manual. Learn to operate this equipment in a safe manner. Familiarize
yourself with all of the controls in a safe environment before starting to work with this machine.
• DO NOT under any circumstances alter this log splitter. This equipment was designed and
engineered in accordance with operating instructions. Altering this equipment, or using this
equipment in such a way as to circumvent its design capabilities and capacities, could result in
serious injury or fatality and WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
• Allow ONLY responsible adults who have read this manual to operate this machine. NEVER
allow children to operate this machine.
• NEVER operate or allow someone to operate this equipment while under the influence of
alcohol, drugs or medication. Being coherent is essential for safety.
• ALWAYS use outdoors with adequate ventilation. DON’T run the engine in an enclosed area.
Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide. This odorless gas can be deadly when inhaled.
• NEVER use splitter for any other purpose than splitting wood. Any other use can result in
injury. Your splitter is a precision piece of power equipment, not a toy. Therefore, exercise
extreme caution at all times.
• ONLY a single operator is to load and operate the log splitter. KEEP all others, including pets
and children, a minimum of 20 feet away from your work area. More accidents occur when
more than one person operates the log splitter than any other time.
• ALWAYS wear protective gear such as safety goggles, protective hearing device, steel-toed
shoes, and tight-fitting gloves without drawstrings or loose cuffs.
• NEVER wear loose clothing or jewelry that can be caught by moving parts of the splitter and
pull you into it. Keep hair away from moving parts.
• NEVER operate your splitter on wet, muddy, or icy surfaces. KEEP work area clean of split
wood. Safe footing is essential in preventing accidents.
• ONLY operate splitter on level ground with wheels blocked, not on the side of a hill. It could
tip, or rolling logs, poor footing, etc. could cause an accident.
This Safety Alert Symbol indicates important messages in this manual.
When you see this symbol, carefully read the message that follows and be
alert to the possibility of personal injury.
Read this manual completely. This machine can amputate hands, feet, and throw objects.
Failure to observe the following safety instructions could result in serious injury or death.
3

•
NEVER operate your splitter near a flame or spark. Hydraulic oil and gasoline are flammable and can explode.
• NEVER fill gas tank while the engine is hot or running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
• This unit 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
effective working order by the operator.
-NOTE-
In the state of California, the above is required by law (Section 442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other
states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester muffler (optional by
manufacturer) is available at your nearest engine dealer. Check legal requirements in your area.
• ONLY use your hands to operate the control lever. NEVER use foot, knee, rope or any extension device.
• Split ONLY one log at a time. NEVER attempt to split two logs on top of each other.
• NEVER place hands or feet between log and splitting wedge or between log and ram during forward or reverse
stroke. ALWAYS keep fingers clear of splits that open in log during splitting operation.
• DO NOT straddle or reach across the splitting area while operating the splitter.
• DO NOT step over splitter when the engine is running. You may trip or accidentally activate the splitting
wedge. Walk around to get to the other side.
• NEVER attempt to load splitter while splitting wedge is in motion. When loading log splitter, place hands on the
sides of the log, not the ends.
• NEVER attempt to split woods across the grain. Wood may burst or fly out of your splitter and result in serious
injury.
• NEVER leave your splitter unattended with the engine running. Shut off the engine if you are leaving your
splitter, even for a short period of time. Someone could accidentally activate the ram and be injured.
• Both ends of the log should b
e cut as squarely as possible to prevent the log from sliding out of the splitter during
operation. Log length should be kept to 19” or less.
• NEVER allow persons to ride on splitter. DO NOT carry any cargo or wood on your splitter. It may fall off and
cause an accident.
• DO NOT loosen or remove any hydraulic fitting, line or reservoir cap while your splitter or engine is running.
• Fluid escaping from a very small hole can almost be invisible. DO NOT check for leaks with your hand. See
maintenance section for instructions. IF injured by escaping fluid, see a doctor at once. Serious infection or
reaction can develop if proper medical treatment is not administered immediately.
• DO NOT operate your splitter in poor mechanical condition or when it is need of repair.
• ALWAYS disconnect the spark plug wire and place the wire where it cannot contact the spark plug, to prevent
accidental starting the engine when setting up, transporting, adjusting or repairing.
4

ASSEMBLY
This log splitter has been partially assembled at the factory. Refer to the drawings and part lists should it become
necessary to disassemble the unit for repair or replacement of parts.
Inspect all components for damage. If you believe you have a damaged part please contact customer service
immediately at 1-800-222-8183.
WARNING:
Exercise extreme caution, as parts are very heavy. Sufficient persons or mechanical handling
equipment should be used.
Refer to uncrating and assembly instructions for assembly procedures.
OPERATION
INTENDED USE:
This log splitter is intended and designed to only split wood. NEVER use for any other
purposes. Doing so can cause injury or VOID THE WARRANTY.
IMPORTANT:
This unit is shipped with oil but without gasoline in the engine. After assembly, see separate
Engine Manual for proper fuel and oil recommendations.
WARNING: DO NOT START OR RUN THE LOG SPLITTER WITHOUT OIL IN THE ENGINE
AND HYDRAULIC RESERVOIR.
FILLING THE HYDRAULIC RESERVOIR
Fill the hydraulic reservoir with approximately 6 Quarts of general-purpose automatic transmission fluid or
general-purpose hydraulic fluid. After the hydraulic reservoir and the engine crankcase are filled correctly with
their respective oils, start the engine. Remember to set the throttle and turn on the fuel shut-off valve. The
hydraulic pump should prime itself. With the engine running, move the hydraulic valve lever toward the wedge.
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 air in the system). Once the
cylinder has a smooth and constant speed indicating that all air has been expelled, add another 2 quarts of oil.
Fluid level should be maintained approximately 3” below the fill hole and above the flat on the dipstick. This
model requires approx. 9-10 Quarts of hydraulic fluid.
NOTE:
If the tank is overfilled, it will tend to expel oil from the breather cap when the cylinder is retracted.
START UP
WARNING:
DO NOT START OR RUN THE LOG SPLITTER WITHOUT OIL IN THE ENGINE
AND HYDRAULIC RESERVOIR.
See separate Engine Manual for fuel and oil recommendations. If applicable your log splitter has come equipped
with a fuel shut-off valve for towing purposes.
Before starting engine make sure crankcase is filled correctly with oil and the proper fuel has been used. The
engine will only start when the throttle lever and fuel shut-off valve if applicable are turned to their ON positions.
STARTING INSTRUCTIONS
Briggs & Stratton 4HP Engine
1. Move throttle control to “FAST.”
2. Push primer bulb three (3) times. NOTE: Do not use primer to restart a warm engine after a short
shutdown.
3. Grasp rope handle and pull out slowly until resistance it felt. Then pull rapidly with a full arm stroke.
NOTE: If engine fails to start after three (3) pulls, repeat steps 1 and 2.
4. When Engine starts, leave throttle control at “FAST.” The throttle must be set in the fast position for
maximum performance.
5. To stop engine, move throttle lever to “SLOW” for a few seconds then to “STOP.”
5

SPLITTER OPERATION
1. Set up the log splitter in a clear, level area and block the wheels. The suction port on the tank should
always be on the lower side of the log splitter.
2. Place a log on the beam, against the foot plate. Make sure the log is securely on the foot plate and up
against the beam.
3. Depress the valve lever so that the cylinder will drive the push block 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. NOTE: 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 ends that are not
square.
NOTE:
To extend the life of the hydraulic cylinder, avoid “BOTTOMING OUT” the cylinder.
6
HYDRAULIC SAFETY
The hydraulic system on your splitter requires careful inspection along with the mechanical parts. Be sure to replace
any frayed, kinked, cracked or otherwise damaged hydraulic components. Just because it isn’t leaking today doesn’t
mean that it will not fail tomorrow.
Fluid escaping from a very small hole can almost be invisible. Do not check for leaks with your hand. 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 or wood over the suspected leak and looking for discoloration. IF
injured by escaping fluid, see a doctor at once. Serious infection or reaction can develop if proper medical
treatment is not administered immediately.
Should it become necessary to loosen or remove any hydraulic fittings, lines or reservoir cap, be sure to relieve all
pressure by shutting of the engine and moving the control handle back and forth several times.
NEVER remove the ca
p from the hydraulic tank or reservoir while the unit is running. Hot oil under pressure could
result in serious injury. See also
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
The pressure relief valve on your splitter is preset at the factory. DO NOT adjust the valve. Only a qualified
technician should perform this adjustment.
MAINTENANCE AND STORAGE
WARNING:
DISCONNECT THE SPARK PLUG BEFORE PERFORMING ANY MAINTENANCE.
Consult the operating and maintenance instructions of the engine manufacturer for engine care.
Always check the oil level of the hydraulic reservoir before operation. Operating without an adequate oil supply will
cause severe damage to the pump. Fluid level should be maintained approximately 3” below the fill hole and above
the flat on the dipstick.
Periodically check that all nuts, bolts, screws, clamps and fittings are tight and secure.
To keep your splitter in top working condition perform all recommended maintenance procedures before you use
your splitter.
If the wedge becomes dull or nicked a grinder or sharpening tool can be used to sharpen it.
Completely drain the fuel tank prior to storage. Always store gasoline in an approved, tightly sealed container. Store
container in a dry, cool place with adequate ventilation. Keep fuel away from areas where fumes could contact open
flame, pilot light or sparks.

Be aware of the environment when disposing of used petroleum products. Please dispose of used hydraulic
fluid, engine oil and any by products from the maintenance of your splitter at approved recycling centers.
Should it become necessary to disassemble the unit for repair or replacement of parts, refer to the drawings and parts
list on the following pages. Exercise extreme caution, as some parts are very heavy and will require sufficient
persons or mechanical handling equipment.
Your Swisher Log Splitter has been produced with components designed specifically to this machine. Although
standard springs, hardware and ect may look similar to parts used on other machinery, they may in some cases
be made of a different construction and/or materials. All replacement parts must meet manufacturer’s
specifications.
7
The operation of any splitter can produce foreign objects to be thrown into the
eyes, resulting in severe eye damage. Always wear certified safety glasses or
wide-vision safety goggles over spectacles before starting any splitting machine
and while operating such a machine.
The operation of any splitter produces sound waves that are damaging to the
human ear. Ear protection is recommended.
OD12 – HYDRAULIC FILL PLUG
DECAL
OD16 – FUEL SHUT OFF DECAL
(NOT ALL MODELS)
OD07 – COLD WEATHER DECAL
SAFETY DECALS
Replace decals immediately if damaged.
11427 – LS DANGER DECAL

8
LS412 ASSEMBLY DETAIL
IDLER DETAIL
VALVE DETAIL
ENGINE DETAIL

9
SERVICE PARTS
Please have Model and Serial Numbers ready when ordering parts.
Color cannot be guaranteed upon service parts.
ITEM NUMBER DESCRIPTION PART NUMBER
1 Motor Base Weldment Txt Blk 11551TK
2 Axle 11552
3 Beam W eldment Txt Blk 11533TK
4 Tire/Wheel - 5/8 Bearing 13x5x6 NHS F4157W
5 Handle Weldment Txt Blk 11535TK
6 4" Spacer Txt Blk 11553TK
7 Hydraulic Pump 11 gpm LS2001H
8 4HP B&S Engine 11400
8A 3" Engine Pulley 11398
8B 3/16 X 1 Key Stock 9030
8C 5/16-18 X 1/2 Set Screw W ith Loctite NB312
8D 7/16 X 1 1/4 Belleville W asher 699
8E 3/8-24 X 1 Engine Bolt Locktite NB238N
9 3/4" Spacer Txt Blk 11554TK
10 Valve Control Splitter Painted 7287TK
10A Valve Handle 7423
10B Valve Handle Grip 7425
10C 1/4 X 1 Clevis Pin NB522
10D 3/32 X 3/4 Cotter Pin NB597
10E Master Link 7424
11 Fitting Return Line 7329
12 90 Degree Male Pipe Swivel Elbow 11557
13 5/16-18 X 3/4 Serrated Flng Bolt NB596
14 5/16-18 Serrated Flng Nut NB170
15 5/16-18 X 1 1/4 Serrated Flng Bolt NB253
16 3/8-16 X 2 1/2 HCC GR5 ZP NB221
17 3/8-16 Nylok Nut Jam NB207
18 3/8 SAE Washer NB272
19 3/8-16 X 5 HCC GR5 ZP NB199
20 3/8-16 Nyloc Nut NB182
21 3/8-16 X 1 1/2 HCC GR5 ZP NB107
22 Hex Reducer Bushing 11558
23 Handle Grip 7826
24 15" Suction Hose 11560
25 9" Return Hose 11561
26 Hose Clamp No. 16 LS4999
27 Hose Clamp No. 12 LS5001
28 3/4" NPT Filler Cap 11562
29 24" Pressure Hose 11559
30 Idler Assembly 11564
30A 3/8-16 X 2 1/2 HTC GR5 ZP NB619
30B Idler Plate Txt Blk 11563
30C Idler Pulley: OD - 3.25", ID - 3/8" B527
30D 3/8 SAE Was her NB272
30E 3/8-16 2-W ay Lock Nut NB280
31 3/4ID X 1 1/4OD 10 GA. W asher NB184
32 3/8 X 1 1/2 Fender Washer 10177
33 Idler Bushing 6037
34 1/8 X 1 Cotter Pin NB126
35 Dip Stick 11565
36 1/4 Pal Nut NB304
37 Handle Grip, Pivot 2077
38 6" Pump Pulley 11550
39 3" Cylinder Txt Blk 11180TK
40 W edge Weldment Txt Blk 11534TK
41 33" Belt For Engine 690
42 90 Degree Pipe Beaded Insert 11792
43 Clutch Lever Txt Black 11226TK
44 W ire Link For Idler Arm BRS6H
45 Clutch Rod Spring 682S
46 Key W oodruff 024002
47 5/16-18 X 1/2 SSC W ith Loctite NB312
48 1/2" NPTF Male to Female Pipe Adaptor 12128

10
NOTES :
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