MTD 242-630-000 - Manual (Page 9)

NOTE: In order to idle smoothly, a new engine may
require 3 to 5 minutes running above slow idle speed.
^ Idle speed has been adjusted to be correct after this
break-in period.
1. If weather is cold, run wedge up and down beam
6 to 8 times to circulate the hydraulic fluid, which
will warm and thin the fluid.
TO STOP ENGINE
1. Move throttle control lever to OFF position.
2. Disconnect spark plug wire from spark plug to
prevent accidental starting while equipment is
unattended.
USING THE LOG SPLITTER
Use the log splitter only on a level, hard surface.
Never stand next to the splitting wedge when operat­
ing the log splitter. Always stand behind the reservoir
tank. See figures 13 and 14. Never attempt to cut a
log in half sideways. Always split the log lengthwise.
Maximum length of log to be split is 24”.
A
WARNING: Always use the log splitter in
the vertical position only when splitting
heavy logs.
The control handle has three positions:
FORWARD—Push the control handle down for vertical
operation, push it forward for horizontal operation—
Splitting wedge moves toward the end plate. Control
handle will return to neutral position as soon as han­
dle is released.
NEUTRAL (Middle position)—Splitting wedge stops in
place.
REVERSE—Push the control handle upward for ver-
ical operation, push it toward the rear for horizontal
operation—Splitting wedge returns. The control
handle will lock in the reverse position, and will
return to neutral automatically when the reverse
stroke is complete.
Splitting
Wedge
Reservoir
Tank
End Plate
FIGURE 13.—Vertical Position
Splitting
Wedge
Control
Handle
End Plate
FIGURE 14.—Horizontal Position
TO OPERATE LOG SPLIHER:
1. Set throttle at maximum speed.
2. Place the log upright, on top of end plate for verti­
cal operation, and on top of beam for horizontal
operation.
3. Push the control handle in forward position until
the splitting wedge just contacts the log. Release
the control handle.
4. Step behind the reservoir tank (see figures 13 or
14) and push the control handle in forward posi­
tion until the log is split.
5. Move the control handle to reverse position to
return the splitting wedge.