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ALWAYS periodically check that all nuts, bolts, screws, hydraulic fittings and hose clamps are tight.
•
ALWAYS replace all damaged or worn parts immediately.
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ALWAYS be sure that all replacement parts meet manufacturer's specifications.
MAINTENANCE & 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 INJURY or even DEATH.
Leaks can be safely 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.
•
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.
•
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.
FIRE PREVENTION
•
NEVER operate your log splitter near a flame or spark or smoke during operation. 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.
•
ONLY refuel your log splitter in a clear, well ventilated area with no gas fumes or spilled gas.
•
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 drain the fuel tank prior to storage to avoid the potential fire hazard.
•
ALWAYS clean wood debris from on and around the engine and muffler..
•
ALWAYS store gasoline in an approved, tightly sealed container and away from heating appliances. Store the
container in a cool, dry place.
IMPORTANT NOTE – (spark arrester):
As a precautionary measure against possible flying sparks, always take a Class B fire extinguisher with you when
operating this log splitter in dry areas. 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 effective 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 is optional and available as an accessory at your nearest engine dealer. Always check the
legal requirements in your area.
TOWING SAFETY
•
NEVER attempt to move your log splitter over hilly or uneven terrain without a tow vehicle or adequate help.
•
NEVER carry any cargo or wood on your log splitter.
•
NEVER allow anyone to sit or ride on your log splitter.
•
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, or serious injury or death. Adjust towing speed for terrain and
conditions. Be extra cautious when towing over rough terrain, especially railroad crossings, and avoid sharp turns and
steep angles when towing your log splitter.
•
NEVER exceed weight capacity of ball or load limits of coupler.
•
ALWAYS confirm coupler tightness each time before towing and after towing 50 miles.
•
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 intersections and in all driving situations.
•
ALWAYS use safety chains when towing your log splitter.
•
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.
•
ALWAYS replace ball or coupler if damaged or excessively worn.
•
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 lift support stands and have beam pinned down and forward for transport.
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