Wallenstein WX540 User manual

OPERATOR'S MANUAL
Trailer Wood Splitter
WX540 Up to S/N 273165
WX540L Up to S/N 2E9US1113KS273163
WX 540, WX 540L
Part Number: Z97137_EnRev Jun-2020

Introduction WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
2
1. Introduction
1.1 Foreword
Congratulations on choosing a Wallenstein Trailer Wood
Splitter!
This high-quality machine is designed and manufactured to
meet the needs of an efficient wood splitting operation.
This manual covers the Wallenstein 20-ton WX540 trailer wood
splitters. The WX540 model features horizontal and vertical
splitting.
Model Variants Covered in this Manual
• WX540
• WX5450L (stop, turn signal, tail lights)
Units of measurement in Wallenstein Equipment technical
manuals are written as:
US Customary (SI metric).
Keep this manual handy for frequent reference and to pass
on to new operators or owners. Call your Wallenstein dealer
or distributor if you need assistance, information or additional
copies of the manuals.
Wallenstein Equipment Inc. • © 2020. All rights reserved.
No part of this work may be copied, reproduced, replaced,
distributed, published, displayed, modified, or transferred in
any form or by any means except with the prior permission of
Wallenstein Equipment Inc.
Review all safety, operation and maintenance information
contained in this manual.
WARNING!
Do not attempt to start or operate the machine
without thoroughly reviewing this manual for
safe and proper operation.
Always keep this manual with the machine.
W034
www.wallensteinequipment.com

WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter Introduction
3
Table of Contents
1. Introduction............................................................2
1.1 Foreword.............................................................2
1.2 Delivery Inspection Report..................................4
1.3 Serial Number Location ......................................5
1.4 Warranty .............................................................6
1.5 Decal Information................................................7
2. Safety......................................................................8
2.1 Safety Alert Symbol ............................................8
2.2 Signal Words ......................................................8
2.3 Why is SAFETY important? ................................9
2.4 Safety Rules .......................................................9
2.5 Equipment Safety Guidelines ...........................10
2.6 Safety Training..................................................10
2.7 Refueling Safety ...............................................10
2.8 Tire Safety ........................................................10
2.9 Hydraulic Safety................................................10
2.10 Gas Engine Safety............................................11
2.11 Being Prepared.................................................12
3. Safety Signs .........................................................14
3.1 Safety Sign Locations .......................................14
3.2 Safety Sign Explanations..................................15
4. Familiarization......................................................16
4.1 To the New Operator ........................................16
4.2 Machine Components.......................................17
5. Controls ...............................................................18
5.1 Engine...............................................................18
5.2 Hydraulic Valve.................................................20
5.3 Stroke Limiter Accessory ..................................22
6. Operating Instructions ........................................23
6.1 Operating Safety...............................................23
6.2 Before Starting the Engine................................23
6.3 Pre-operation Checklist ....................................24
6.4 Machine Break-In..............................................24
6.5 Engine Oil Level Check ....................................25
6.6 Hydraulic Oil Level Check.................................25
6.7 Fuel Level Check ..............................................26
6.8 Machine Set-up.................................................26
6.9 Starting the Engine ...........................................27
6.10 Stopping the Engine .........................................27
6.11 Log Placement..................................................28
6.12 Splitting Wood...................................................28
6.13 Vertical Splitting ...............................................29
6.14 Transporting......................................................30
6.15 Connecting a Tow Vehicle ................................31
6.16 Storing the Wood Splitter..................................32
6.17 Removing from Storage....................................32
7. Service and Maintenance....................................33
7.1 Maintenance Safety ..........................................33
7.2 Fluids and Lubricants........................................33
7.3 Maintenance Schedule .....................................34
7.4 Grease Points ...................................................34
7.5 Hydraulic Oil – Changing ..................................36
7.6 Hydraulic Oil Filter – Changing .........................36
7.7 Engine Air Cleaner............................................37
7.8 Electrical System – General .............................37
8. Troubleshooting...................................................38
9. Specications ......................................................39
9.1 MachineSpecications .....................................39
9.2 Common Bolt Torque Values............................40
9.3 Hydraulic Fitting Torque....................................41
9.4 Wheel Lug Torque ............................................41
10. Alphabetical Index .............................................42

Introduction WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
4
WALLENSTEIN
WX540, WX540L Trailer Wood Splitters
Pre-delivery Inspection
Inspect for damage from shipping. Immediately contact the
shipping company if damage is found.
Trailer Wood Splitter
Hydraulic Valve Control Function
Hydraulic Cylinder Function
Hydraulic Reservoir level
Engine Oil Level
Horizontal / Vertical Pivot Moves Freely (as equipped)
Front and Rear Support Stands Move freely
All fasteners are Tight
Lubricate all Pivot Points (as equipped)
Check that all Hydraulic Connections are tight
Review Operating and Safety Instructions
Safety Checks
All Safety Decals Installed
Guards and Shields Installed and Secured
Check Function of Brake and Signal Lighting
Supports Function Correctly
Safety Chain on Hitch
Retainer Installed Through Ball Hitch
Review Operating and Safety Instructions
_________________________________________
Customer’s Name
_________________________________________
Contact Name
_________________________________________
Dealer Name
(_________)_______________________________
Phone Number
_________________________________________
Serial Number
__________ /__________ /__________
Delivery Date
I have thoroughly instructed the buyer on the equip-
ment care, adjustments, safe operation and applicable
warranty policy and reviewed the manual.
_________________________________________
Dealer’s Rep. Signature
__________ /__________ /__________
Date
The product manuals have been received by me and
I have been thoroughly instructed as to care, adjust-
ments, safe operation and applicable warranty policy.
_________________________________________
Owner's Signature
__________ /__________ /__________
Date
1.2 Delivery Inspection Report
To activate warranty, register your product online at
http://www.wallensteinequipment.com

WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter Introduction
5
00664
1.3 Serial Number Location
Always provide the model and serial number of your Wallenstein
product when ordering parts, or requesting service or other
information. The product information plate location is shown in
the illustration.
For future convenience, record the product Model and Serial
Number in the spaces provided below.
Record Product Information Here
Model:
Serial Number:
Fig. 1 – Product Information Plate Location
Model and Serial
Number Location

Introduction WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
6
1.4 Warranty
rev. Nov-2018
LIMITED WARRANTY
Wallenstein products are warranted to be free of defects in materials and
workmanship under normal use and service, for a period of
Five Years for Consumer Use
Two Years for Commercial/Rental Use
from the date of purchase, when operated and maintained in accordance with the operang
and maintenance instrucons supplied with the unit. Warranty is limited to the repair of the
product and/or replacement of parts.
This warranty is extended only to the original purchaser and is not transferable.
Repairs must be done by an authorized dealer. Products will be returned to the dealer at the
customer’s expense. Include the original purchase receipt with any claim.
This warranty does not coverthe following:
1) Normal maintenance or adjustments
2) Normal replacement of wearable and service parts
3) Consequen damage, indirect damage, or loss of prots
4) Damages resulng from:
•Misuse, negligence, accident, theor re
•Use of improper or insucient fuel, uids or lubricants
•Use of parts or aermarket accessories other than genuine Wallenstein parts
•Modicaons, alteraon, tampering or improper repair performed by pares other
than an authorized dealer
•Any device or accessories installed by pares other than an authorized dealer
5) Engines. Engines are covered by the manufacturer of the engine for the warranty period
they specify. For the details of your engine warranty, see your engine owner’s manual.
Informaon about engine warranty and service is also available in the FAQ secon at
www.wallensteinequipment.com

WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter Introduction
7
1.5 Decal Information
When getting familiar with the Wallenstein product, notice that
there are numerous decals located on the machine. There are
different types of decals for safety, information, and product
identification. The following section explains what they are for
and how to read them.
Safety Decals are pictorial with a yellow background and
generally two panel. The top panel shows the safety alert (the
potential hazard) and the bottom panel shows the message
(how to avoid the hazard).
Safety alert
Message
Safety Notice Decals are pictorial with a blue background and
generally rectangular with single or multiple symbols. This decal
informs what Personal Protective Equipment is required for safe
operation.
Informative Decals are generally pictorial with a white
background and can vary in the number of panels. This type of
decal provides additional information to the operator or explains
the operation of a control.
Product Decals indicate machine model and serial number, and
other important information.
VIN/
NLV:
MODEL: ##########
#########
Manufactured by:
Wallenstein Equipment Inc., 7201 Line 86, Wallenstein ON N0B2S0, Canada
TYPE OF VEHICLE/TYPE DE VEHICLE:
TRA / REM
GAWR/PNBE (KG): GVWR/PNBV (KG):
###
DIMENSION- RIM/JANTE /ERIT: PNEU:
COLD INFL. PRESS/PRESS DE
CONFLA A FROID (PSI/LPC):
THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE STANDARDS
PRESCRIBED UNDER THE CANADIAN MOTOR SAFTEY REGULATIONS
IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE / CE VEHICLE EST
CONFORME A TOUTES LES NORMES QUI LUI SONT APPLICABLES EN
VERTU DU REGLEMENT SUR LA SECURITE DES VEHICLES
AUTOMOBILES DU CANADA EN VIGUEUR A LA DATE DE SA FABRICATION.
###
### ###
###
Maintenance Decals have a green background and can vary
to the number of panels. This decal shows a type maintenance
required and frequency interval.
See the section on safety signs for safety decal definitions.
For a complete illustration of decals and decal locations,
download the parts manual for your model product at
www.wallensteinequipment.com.

Safety WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
Safety
8
2. Safety
2.1 Safety Alert Symbol
This Safety Alert Symbol means:
ATTENTION! BE ALERT!
YOUR SAFETY IS INVOLVED!
The Safety Alert Symbol identifies important safety messages
on the Wallenstein wood splitter and in the manual. When you
see this symbol, be alert to the possibility of personal injury or
death. Follow the instructions in the safety message.
2.2 Signal Words
The signal words DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION determine
the seriousness level of the warning messages in this manual.
The appropriate signal word for each message in this manual
has been selected using the following guidelines:
DANGER –
Indicates an imminently hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury. This signal word is to be
limited to the most extreme situations typically for machine
components which, for functional purposes, cannot be guarded.
WARNING –
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury, and includes hazards that
are exposed when guards are removed. It may also be used to
alert against unsafe practices.
CAUTION –
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate injury. It may also be used to
alert against unsafe practices.
IMPORTANT – To avoid confusing equipment protection with
personal safety messages, a signal word IMPORTANT indicates
a situation that if not avoided, could result in damage to the
machine.
NOTE: (plus text) – indicates an additional explanation
for an element of information.

WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter Safety
Safety
9
2.3 Why is SAFETY important?
Three Big Reasons:
• Accidents Disable and Kill
• Accidents Cost
• Accidents Can Be Avoided
The policy of Wallenstein Equipment Inc. is to produce products
that are safe and reliable. However, even when using well-
engineered equipment, there is always an element of risk. To
minimize the risks and promote safety at all times, this section
of the operator’s manual details a number of safety rules that
must always be followed and obeyed.
YOU are responsible for the SAFE operation and maintenance of
your Wallenstein Trailer Wood Splitter. YOU must ensure that you
and anyone else who is going to use, maintain or work around
the wood splitter be familiar with the operating and maintenance
procedures and related safety information contained in this
manual. This manual provides good safety practices that should
be followed while using the wood splitter.
Remember, YOU are the key to safety. Good safety practices
not only protect you but also the people around you. Make
these practices a working part of your safety program. Be
certain that EVERYONE using this equipment is familiar with the
recommended use and maintenance procedures and follows all
the safety precautions.
2.4 Safety Rules
• DO give operating instructions to operators or employees
before allowing them to operate the machine, and REVIEW
annually thereafter.
• DO read and understand ALL Safety and
Operating instructions in the manual and
follow them. The most important safety
device on this equipment is a SAFE
operator.
• DO review safety related items annually with all personnel
who are operating the machine or performing maintenance.
• DO wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
The suggested equipment includes but is not limited to the
following:
-Hearing Protection
-Protective glasses, goggles or face shield
-Heavy work gloves
-Protective shoes with slip resistant soles
• DO have a first-aid kit available for use
should the need arise and know how to
use it.
• DO read and understand all safety signs located on the
machine before operating, servicing, adjusting, or cleaning.
• DO inspect and secure all guards before starting.
• DO check engine intake and exhaust. Make sure they are
clear of debris prior to starting the machine.
• DO have a fire extinguisher available for use
should the need arise. Know how to use it.
• DO think SAFETY! Work SAFELY!
• DO NOT touch hot engine parts, muffler cover, hydraulic
hoses, engine body, engine oil, and so on during operation
or if the engine was recently shut off. Contact may cause
burns.
• DO NOT expect a person who has not read and understood
all operation and safety instructions to use the machine.
An untrained operator is not qualified and is exposed
to possible serious injury or death. It is the owner's
responsibility to make sure to the operator has familiarity
and understanding of the machine.
• DO NOT allow riders during transport.
• DO NOT risk injury or death by ignoring good safety
practices.

Safety WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
Safety
10
2.5 Equipment Safety Guidelines
Always place the machine in a Safe Condition before
performing any service work, maintenance procedures, or
storage preparation.
SAFE CONDITION
• Shut off engine.
• Make sure all moving parts have stopped.
• Disconnect battery ground (-) cable.
• Block or chock wheels.
• Never use equipment with safety shields removed. Keep all
shields in place. If shield removal becomes necessary for
repairs, reinstall the shield prior to use.
• Replace any safety sign or instruction sign that is not
readable or is missing. Location of safety signs is indicated
in this manual.
• Do not allow anyone other than a responsible, properly
trained and physically able person to operate this machine.
This equipment is dangerous to children and persons
unfamiliar with its operation.
• Do not modify the equipment in any way. Unauthorized
modification may result in serious injury or death and may
impair the function and life of the equipment.
• Never exceed the limits of the machine. If its ability to do
the job or to do it safely is in question—
STOP IMMEDIATELY!
2.6 Safety Training
• The best safety feature is an
informed, careful operator—we ask
you be that kind of operator. It is
the operator's responsibility to read,
understand and follow ALL safety
and operation instructions in the
manual.
• Train all new personnel and review instructions frequently
with existing workers. Only properly trained and physically
able operators should use this equipment. A person who
has not read and understood all operation and safety
instructions is not qualified to use the machine. Untrained
operators expose themselves and bystanders to possible
serious injury or death. If elderly people are assisting with
the work, their physical limitations need to be recognized
and accommodated.
• Learn the controls and how to stop the machine quickly in
an emergency.
• If this machine is loaned or rented, it is the machine
owner's responsibility to make certain that every operator:
-Reads and understands the owner's manual
-Is instructed in safe and proper use of the equipment
-Understands and knows how to perform the Safe
Condition procedure
2.7 Refueling Safety
• Engine fuel is highly flammable. Handle with care.
• Fill fuel tank outdoors.
• Stop the engine before refueling. Allow engine to cool for
five minutes. Clean up spilled fuel before restarting engine.
• Do not overfill the fuel tank.
• If fuel is spilled, wipe it away carefully and wait until the fuel
has dried before starting the engine.
• Do not refuel the machine while
smoking or when near open flame or
sparks.
• After refueling, make sure that the fuel cap is secured to
prevent spillage.
• Prevent fires by keeping machine clean of accumulated
trash, grease, and debris.
2.8 Tire Safety
• Failure to follow proper procedures when mounting a tire on
a wheel or rim can produce an explosion which may result
in serious injury or death.
• Do not attempt to mount a tire unless you have the proper
equipment and experience to do the job.
• Have a qualified tire dealer or repair service perform
required tire maintenance.
• When replacing worn tires, make sure they meet the
original tire specifications. Never install undersized tires.
2.9 Hydraulic Safety
• Make sure that all the components in the hydraulic system
are kept in good condition and are clean.

WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter Safety
Safety
11
• Before applying pressure to the system,
make sure all components are tight, and
that lines, hoses and couplings are not
damaged.
• Do not attempt any makeshift repairs to the hydraulic lines,
fittings or hoses by using tapes, clamps or cements. The
hydraulic system operates under extremely high pressure.
Such repairs can fail suddenly and create a hazardous and
unsafe condition.
• Wear proper hand and eye protection
when searching for a high-pressure
hydraulic leak. Use a piece of wood
or cardboard as a backstop instead of
hands to isolate and identify a leak.
• If injured by a concentrated high-pressure stream of
hydraulic fluid, seek medical attention immediately. Serious
infection or toxic reaction can develop from hydraulic fluid
piercing the skin surface.
• Relieve pressure in the hydraulic system before working on
it.
2.10 Gas Engine Safety
CAUTION!
Before starting engine, review the operating and
maintenance instructions in the engine manual.
W019
• DO NOT operate engine in an enclosed area. Exhaust gases
contain odorless and deadly carbon monoxide that can
cause death by asphyxiation.
• DO NOT place hands or feet near moving or rotating parts.
• DO NOT store, spill, or use gasoline near an open flame,
or devices such as a stove, furnace, or water heater which
use a pilot light or devices which can create a spark.
• DO NOT refuel indoors where area is not well ventilated.
• DO NOT refuel while engine is running. Allow engine to cool
for five minutes before refueling. Store fuel in approved
safety containers.
• DO NOT remove fuel tank cap while engine is running.
• DO NOT operate engine if gasoline is spilled. Move machine
away from the spill and avoid engine ignition until gasoline
has evaporated.
• DO NOT smoke while filling fuel tank.
• DO NOT choke carburetor to stop engine. Whenever
possible, gradually reduce engine speed before stopping.
• DO NOT run engine above rated speeds. This may result in
injury.
• DO NOT tamper with governor springs, governor links or
other parts which may increase the governed speed.
• DO NOT tamper with the engine as set by the original
equipment manufacturer.
• DO NOT check for spark with spark plug or spark plug wire
removed.
• DO NOT crank engine with spark plug removed. If engine is
flooded, crank until engine starts.
• DO NOT strike flywheel with a hard object or metal tool as
this may cause flywheel to shatter in operation. Use proper
tools to service engine.
• DO NOT operate engine without a muffler. Inspect
periodically and replace, if necessary.
• DO NOT operate engine with an accumulation of grass,
leaves, dirt or other combustible materials in the muffler
area.
• DO NOT use this engine on any forest covered, brush
covered, or grass covered unimproved land unless a spark
arrester is installed on the muffler. The arrester must be
maintained in effective working order by the operator. In the
state of California, the above is required by law (Section
4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states
may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal land.
• DO NOT touch hot muffler, engine body or cooling fins.
Contact may cause burns.
• DO NOT run engine with air cleaner or air cleaner cover
removed.
Be sure to:
• Remove the wire from the spark plug when servicing
the engine or equipment to prevent accidental starting.
Disconnect the (-) ground wire from the battery terminal.
• Keep engine cooling fins and governor parts free of grass
and other debris that can affect engine speed.
• Examine muffler periodically to be sure it is functioning
effectively. A worn or leaking muffler should be repaired or
replaced as necessary.
• Use fresh gasoline. Old fuel can clog carburetor and cause
leakage.
• Check fuel lines and fittings frequently for cracks or leaks.
Replace if necessary.

Safety WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
Safety
12
2.11 Being Prepared
• Determine where the split wood is going to be piled ahead
of time. Make sure it does not interfere with safe loading of
wood into the splitter.
• Precut logs so wood is ready to load into the splitter. Do not
run a chain saw and the splitter at the same time.
• Determine a safe work area location:
-Area must be clear of stones, branches or hidden
obstacles that might cause a tripping, hooking or
snagging hazard.
-Ground should be firm and level.
• Operate only in daylight or good artificial light.
• Make sure machine is properly adjusted and in good
operating condition.
• Store fuel well away from the wood pile.
• Perform the Pre-operation Checklist procedure before
starting work (see Pre-operation Checklist on page 36).
• Do not operate on hillsides or when working area is
cluttered, wet, muddy or icy to prevent slipping and
tripping. Operate only on level ground.
• Position machine so prevailing winds blow engine exhaust
fumes away from operator's station.
• Do not operate machine inside a closed building to prevent
asphyxiation from engine exhaust.
• Stop engine when leaving the machine unattended.

WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter Safety
Safety
13
2.11.1Sign-Off Form
Anyone using this machine must read and thoroughly
understand all Safety, Operation and Maintenance information
in this manual. An untrained operator should never use this
machine.
To help document this training, the sign-off sheet provided
below can be used.
Make periodic reviews of Safety and Operation a standard
practice for all operators. Review again at the startup of every
season.
The design and manufacture of this product conforms to relative
provisions in the following standards:
ISO 4254-1 Agricultural machinery – Safety
ASABE S318 Safety for Agricultural Field Equipment
ISO 3600 Operator’s Manual – Machinery for Agriculture,
Forestry & Lawn Equipment
Sign-off Form
Date Owner Employee

Safety Signs WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
Safety
14
3. Safety Signs
3.1 Safety Sign Locations
The types of safety signs and locations on the equipment are
shown in the illustrations that follow. Good safety requires that
you familiarize yourself with the various safety signs, the type of
warning and the area, or particular function related to that area,
that requires your SAFETY AWARENESS.
Think SAFETY! Work SAFELY!
Fig. 2 – Safety Decal Locations (typical for all WX500 series models)
00665
4 123

WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter Safety Signs
Safety
15
3.2 Safety Sign Explanations
1. Warning!
Always wear appropriate Personal
Protective Equipment when using this
machine. For example:
• A hard hat
• Heavy gloves
• Hearing protection
• Protective shoes with slip
resistant soles
• Protective glasses, goggles or
face shield
2. Caution!
Refer to the operator's manual. Read ALL
operating instructions in the manual and
learn the meaning of ALL safety signs on
the machine.
The best safety feature is an informed
operator.
3. Warning!
Pinch point / crushing danger! Keep your
hands away from all moving parts during
and after split operation! Never try to clear
a jammed log with your hands! Wait for all
moving parts to come to a complete stop
before loading or clearing obstructions.
4. Warning!
Keep feet away from falling split wood.
Always wear steel toed foot wear while
machine is operating to avoid serious
personal injury.
IMPORTANT! If parts are replaced that have safety signs on
them, new signs must be applied. Safety signs must always
be replaced if they become damaged, are removed, or
become illegible.
Safety signs are included in the product decal kit available from
your authorized dealer. Decals are not available separately.
3.2.1 Replacing Damaged Safety Signs
• Always keep safety signs clean and legible.
• Replace safety signs that are missing or have become
illegible.
• Parts that were replaced with a safety decal on them must
also have the safety sign replaced.
• Replacement safety signs are available from your
authorized Distributor, Dealer Parts Department, or
Wallenstein Equipment.
Procedure
1. Be sure that the installation area is clean and dry.
2. Be sure temperature is above 50 °F (10 °C).
3. Determine exact position before removing from the backing
paper.
4. Pull the decal off the backing sheet, align the sign over
the specified area, then carefully press the exposed sticky
backing in place.
5. Use a piece of the backing paper to smooth the decal out,
pressing from the center outwards.
6. Small air pockets can be pierced with a pin and smoothed
out using the piece of sign backing paper.

Familiarization WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
16
4. Familiarization
4.1 To the New Operator
It is the responsibility of the owner or operator to read this
manual and to train all other operators before they start
working with the machine. Follow all safety instructions
exactly.
By following recommended procedures, a safe working
environment is provided for the operator, bystanders and
the area around the work site. Untrained operators are not
qualified to use the machine.
Many features incorporated into this machine are the result of
suggestions made by customers like you. Read this manual
carefully to learn how to use the machine safely and provide
maximum operating efficiency. By following the instructions
in conjunction with a good maintenance program, your wood
splitter can provide many years of trouble-free service.
IMPORTANT! Make sure all operators understand how to
put the wood splitter in a Safe Condition before working with
this machine. See Safe Condition page 10.
4.1.1 Training
Each operator must be trained in the proper set-up and operating
procedures before using the machine.
1. Move the unit to a large open area to allow the operator
to become familiar with control functions and machine
response.
2. Do not allow untrained operators to use the machine. They
can endanger themselves and others, or damage property
and the machine.
4.1.2 Job Site Familiarization
It is the responsibility of the operator to be thoroughly familiar
with the work site prior to starting.
1. Check for close or cramped work space. Be sure there is
sufficient space and clearance for the machine to operate.
2. Organize the working area to minimize movement.
3. Position the machine so prevailing winds blow engine
exhaust fumes away from operator's station.

WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter Familiarization
17
4.2 Machine Components
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
00633
Fig. 3 – WX540, WX540L Wood Splitter Components
1. Tilting Splitter Bed
2. Sliding Wedge
3. Splitter Control Valve Handle
4. Splitter Bed Spring Latch
5. Hydraulic Cylinder
6. Honda GX200 Engine
7. Product Manual Storage Tube
8. Trailer Tongue
9. Safety Chains
10. Front Jack Stand
11. Hydraulic Oil Reservoir
12. 4.80-8 LRB SportTrail Tire
13. Stop, Tail, Turn Signal Lights (WX540L only)
14. Rear Jack Stand

Controls WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
18
5. Controls
IMPORTANT! Before starting work with the wood splitter,
become familiar with the location and function of all
controls.
5.1 Engine
Refer to the engine manual that came with this product for
further explanation on engine controls.
00189
2
3
1
5
4
Fig. 4 – Engine Controls
1. Throttle Lever
2. Ignition Switch
3. Oil Level Check
4. Oil Drain Plug
5. Starting Rope
6. Fuel Valve Lever
7. Choke Lever
5.1.1 Ignition Switch
This rotary switch controls the ignition system.
• The engine operates in the ON position. Before starting the
engine, turn the switch to ON.
• Turn it counter-clockwise to OFF to stop the engine.
00187
Fig. 5 – Ignition Switch
5.1.2 Choke Lever
The choke lever opens and closes the choke valve in the
carburetor.
• Place the choke lever in the CLOSED position (3) when
starting a cold engine.
• Move the choke lever to the OPEN position (2) after the
engine starts. When restarting a warm engine, leave the
lever in the OPEN position.
00188
1
23
Fig. 6 – Choke Lever
1. Choke Lever
2. Choke Open Position
3. Choke Closed Position
5.1.3 Fuel Shut-off Valve
The engine is equipped with a valve between the fuel tank and
the carburetor.
• Slide the fuel valve lever toward the block (2) to turn fuel
ON, and away (3) to turn OFF.
• Turn the fuel OFF when not in use or when transporting.

WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter Controls
19
00190
2
1
3
Fig. 7 – Fuel Valve Lever
1. Fuel Shut-off Valve Lever
2. ON Position
3. OFF Position
5.1.4 Throttle Lever
This lever controls the engine speed. Move the lever side to side
to increase or decrease engine rpm. Always operate the wood
splitter with the throttle lever in the MAX position.
00191
1
Fig. 8 – Throttle Lever Positions
1. Throttle Lever
5.1.5 Recoil Starter
The recoil starter is located on the side of the engine. The starter
grip is pulled out by hand to start the engine.
00203
Fig. 9 – Recoil Starter

Controls WX540, WX540L
Trailer Wood Splitter
20
5.2 Hydraulic Valve
The control valve extends and retracts the wedge to split the
wood. The lever on the valve has three positions—Extend,
Neutral, and Retract.
00644
Fig. 10 – Splitter Control Valve
1. Push the lever forward (toward the wood) and hold to
extend the wedge and split the wood.
2. Pull the lever fully back to retract the wedge. When
retracting, a detent holds the lever until the wedge / push
block fully returns, providing hands-free operation.
3. Once the wedge is fully retracted, the lever spring-returns
to neutral.
Neutral Position
• Neutral is the center position on the valve.
• The wedge stops moving when the valve lever is moved to
Neutral.
• The valve lever can be moved to Neutral from Extend or
Retract at any time.
00636
Fig. 11 – Center (Neutral) Position
Extend
• Push the lever forward (toward the wood) and hold to
extend the wedge and split the wood.
• Releasing the lever returns it to Neutral.