Log Splitter Safety

Operator Safety Recommendations

• Before operating this log splitter, carefully read the manual and follow all instructions
• Never operate your log splitter for any other purpose than splitting wood.
• Do not operate the log splitter under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.
• Never allow children to operate the log splitter. Keep small children away from the work area. If a second person is assisting in loading logs, never activate the log splitter until the helper is clear of the work area.
• Dress appropriately when operating the log splitter. Always wear safety footwear. Never wear sandals, sneakers, or open shoes, and never operate the log splitter with bare feet. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that might get caught in moving parts.
• Always wear safety glasses while operating your log splitter. Wear proper head gear to keep hair away from moving parts.
• Always wear a protective hearing device.
• If you wear gloves, be sure they are tight fitting without loose cuffs or draw strings.
• Both ends of each log should be cut as square as possible to help prevent the log from sliding out of the splitter during operation.
• Handle fuel with care; it is highly flammable.
• 1. Use an approved fuel container.
• 2. Never add fuel to a running engine or hot engine.
• 3. Fill fuel tank outdoors with extreme care. Never fill fuel tank indoors.
• 4. Replace gasoline cap securely and clean up spilled fuel before restarting.
• Never attempt to make any adjustments to the log splitter while the engine is running.
• Never operate the log splitter without guards in place.
• Only operate the log splitter from the operator zone.
• Know how to stop the unit and disengage the controls.
• Never place hands and/or feet between log and splitting wedge or between log and ram during forward or reverse stroke.
• Do not step over or straddle the log splitter when the engine is running. Never reach or bend over the log splitter to pick up a log.
• Never try to split two logs on top of each other at the same time.
• Never allow one person to operate the valve while another is positioning the log.
• Never attempt to load your log splitter when the ram is in motion.
• Only use your hand to operate the control lever. Never use your foot or a rope or any other extension device.
• Always keep fingers away from any cracks that open in the log during splitting operation.
• Never move the log splitter while the engine is running.
• Never leave your log splitter unattended with the engine running. Shut off the engine if you are leaving your splitter--even for a short period of time.
• Do not run the engine in an enclosed area. Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide. This odorless gas can be deadly when inhaled.
• Do not operate your log splitter on slippery, wet, muddy, or icy surfaces.
• Only operate your log splitter on level ground and not on a hillside.
• Never attempt to move the log splitter over hilly or uneven terrain without a tow vehicle or adequate help.
• Always block wheels to prevent movement of log splitter while in operation.
• Keep work area clean. Immediately remove split wood around your log splitter so that you don't stumble over it.
• Always use your log splitter in daylight.
• Do not operate your log splitter in poor mechanical condition or when in need of repair.
• Periodically check that all nuts, bolts, and screws are tightened.
• Always perform recommended maintenance procedures before using your log splitter.
• Do not alter your log splitter in any manner such as attaching a rope or extension to the control lever or adding to the width or height of the wedge.
• Replace all damaged or worn parts immediately.
• Never tamper with the engine to have it run at excessive speeds. The maximum engine speed is preset by the manufacturer.
• Do not service or repair your log splitter without removing the spark plug wire.
• All replacement parts must meet manufacturer's specifications.
• Obey all state and local regulations when towing on public roads and highways.
• Before towing, be certain that the log splitter is correctly and securely attached to the towing vehicle and that a safety chain is in place.
• Never carry any cargo or wood on your log splitter. Do not allow anyone to sit or ride on your log splitter.
• Before using your log splitter, disconnect it from the towing vehicle.
• Allow for added length of your log splitter when turning, parking, crossing an intersection, and in all driving situations.
• Be careful when backing up.
• Adjust towing speed for terrain and conditions. Do not exceed 45 mph. Be extra cautious and reduce speed when towing over bumpy or rough terrain including railroad crossing.
• Never operate your log splitter near a flame or spark. Hydraulic oil and gasoline are flammable and can explode.
• Do not fill the gas tank while the engine is hot or running. Allow the engine to cool before refueling.
• Never smoke while operating or refueling your log splitter. Gas fumes can easily explode.
• Only refuel your log splitter outdoors in a clear area. Always use an approved fuel container. Always replace the gas cap securely.
• If gas is spilled, move machine away from the area of the spill and avoid creating any source of ignition until the spilled gas has evaporated or been cleaned up.
• Take a Class B fire extinguisher with you when operating your log splitter in dry areas as a precautionary measure against possible flying sparks.
• Completely drain the fuel tank prior to storage.
• Always store gasoline in an approved, tightly sealed container. Store the container in a cool, dry place. Do not store in the houses or near a heating appliance.
• The hydraulic system of your log splitter requires careful inspection along with the mechanical parts. Be sure to replace any damaged hydraulic component.
• 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 located by passing a piece of cardboard or wood over the suspected leak. Look 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 fitting or line, be sure to relieve all pressure by shutting off the engine and moving the control handle back and forth several times.
• The pressure relief valve on your log splitter is preset at the factory. Do not adjust the valve. Only a qualified service technician should perform this adjustment.