11.When splitting in the vertical position, stabilize the log before moving the control handle. Split as follows:

a.Place log on the end plate and turn until it leans against the beam and is stable.

b.When splitting extra large or uneven logs, the log must be stabilized with wooden shims or split wood placed between the log and end plate or ground.

12.Always keep fingers away from any cracks that open in the log while splitting. They can quickly close and pinch or amputate your fingers.

13.Keep your work area clean. Immediately remove split wood around the machine so you do not stumble over it.

14.Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe operating speed of the engine.

15.Never move this machine while the engine is running.

16.This machine should not be towed on any street, highway or public road without checking the existing federal, state, or local vehicle requirements. Any licensing or modifications such as taillights, etc., needed to comply, is the sole responsibility of the purchaser. If a “Statement of

Origin” is required in your state, see your local dealer.

17.Do not tow machine over 45 mph.

18.See Transporting the Log Splitter section in this manual for proper towing instructions once all federal, local, or state requirements are met.

Maintenance and Storage

1.Stop the engine, disconnect the spark plug and ground it against the engine before cleaning, or inspecting the machine.

2.Stop the engine and relieve hydraulic system pressure by cycling the valve control lever from forward to reverse several times while engine is not running; returning to neutral before repairing or adjusting fittings, hoses, tubing, or other system components.

3.To prevent fires, clean debris and chaff from the engine and muffler areas. If the engine is equipped with a spark arrestor muffler, clean and inspect it regularly according to manufacturers instructions. Replace if damaged.

4.Periodically check that all nuts and bolts, hose clamps, and hydraulic fittings are tight to be sure equipment is in safe working condition.

5.Check all safety guards and shields to be sure they are in the proper position. Never operate with safety guards, shields, or other protective features removed.

6.The pressure relief valve is preset at the factory. Do not adjust the valve.

7.Never attempt to move this machine over hilly or uneven terrain without a tow vehicle or adequate help.

8.For your safety, replace all damaged or worn parts immediately with original equipment manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only. Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment specifications may lead to improper performance and compromise safety!

9.Do not alter this machine in any manner, alterations such as attaching a rope or extension to the control handle, or adding to the width or height of the wedge may result in personal injury.

10.According to the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), this product has an Average Useful Life of seven (7) years, or 130 hours of operation. At the end of the Average Useful Life have the machine inspected annually by an authorized service dealer to ensure that all mechanical and safety systems are working properly and not worn excessively. Failure to do so can result in accidents, injuries or death.

Spark Arrestor

Warning! This machine 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 arrestor meeting applicable local or state laws (if any).

If a spark arrestor is used, it should 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 lands.

A spark arrestor for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 361131 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-0019.

Section 2 — Important Safe Operation Practices

 

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