Operating your log splitter, Stopping engine, Gas and oil fill-up – MTD 510 User Manual
Page 9: Warning

9
Control Handle
The control handle has three positions. See Figure 4-2. 
• 
FORWARD: Move control handle FORWARD or 
DOWN to move wedge to split wood.
NOTE: Control handle will return to neutral position as 
soon as handle is released.
(Forward Position only)
•
NEUTRAL: Release the control handle or move the 
lever to neutral position to stop the wedge movement.
•
REVERSE: Move control handle BACK or UP to return 
the wedge toward the cylinder. The control handle 
stays in the return (Reverse) position and returns to 
neutral automatically when fully retracted.
NOTE: Reverse position may also be operated back to 
neutral position manually, if necessary.
Stopping Engine
1. Move throttle control handle to STOP or OFF position.
2. Turn off the engine switch, if so equipped.
3. Disconnect spark plug wire and ground against the 
engine to prevent unintended starting.
IMPORTANT: Your log splitter may be shipped with motor 
oil in the engine. You MUST check the oil level before 
operating. Be careful not to overfill.
WARNING: Read, understand, and 
follow all instructions and warnings on 
the machine and in this manual before 
operating.
WARNING: Wear leather work gloves, 
safety shoes, ear protection, and safety 
glasses when operating a log splitter. 
Ensure safe footing.
Gas and Oil Fill-Up
1. Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed
in the engine manual packed with your log splitter. 
Read instructions carefully.
WARNING: Use extreme care when han-
dling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely 
flammable and the vapors are explosive. 
Never fuel machine indoors or while the 
engine is hot or running.
4
Operating
Your Log
Splitter
WARNING
Read, understand, and
follow all instructions
and warnings on the
machine and in this
manual before operat-
ing.
Wear leather work
gloves, safety shoes,
ear protection, and
safety glasses when
operating a log splitter.
Ensure safe footing.
Use extreme care when
handling gasoline.
Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the
vapors are explosive.
Never fuel machine
indoors or while the
engine is hot or run-
ning.
When starting a warm
engine, the muffler and
surrounding areas are
hot and can cause a
burn. Do not touch.
Figure 4-2
Neutral
To return
wedge
To stop
wedge
To split wood
IMPORTANT: Your log splitter is shipped with motor oil 
in the engine. However, you MUST check the oil level 
before operating. Be careful not to overfill.
NOTE: Gasoline can be added to the engine when the 
log splitter is in either the horizontal or vertical position. 
However, there are less obstructions when the unit is in 
the vertical position.
Starting Engine
1. Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. Make certain
the metal cap on the end of the spark plug wire is 
fastened securely over metal tip of the spark plug.
2. Turn fuel valve, if equipped, to the ON position.
3. Move choke lever, if equipped, to CHOKE position.
4. If the engine is equipped with a primer, follow 
instructions in the engine manual to prime it.
5. Turn the throttle control handle to the FAST position.
6. Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until 
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope will 
pull slightly harder at this point).
7. Pull rope with a rapid, full arm stroke. Keep firm grip
on starter handle. Let rope rewind slowly. Repeat 
until engine cranks. 
8. After engine starts, move choke lever (if equipped)
to OFF position. Place throttle lever to the speed 
desired. 
9. In cold weather, run wedge up or down beam 6 to 8
times to circulate the hydraulic fluid.
WARNING: When starting a warm 
engine, the muffler and surrounding 
areas are hot and can cause a burn. 
Do not touch.
