MTD 243-635-000 - Manual (Page 11)

Hex Bolts
MAINTENANCE
Adjustment
Bolts
Back.
Plate
FIGURE 15.
Periodically remove and replace the “gibs” (spacers)
between the wedge plate and the back plate as fol­
lows.
NOTE: If desired, the gibs may be rotated and/or
turned over for even wear.
1. Remove the center bolt on top of the wedge
plate. Slide the gib plate out. See figure 15.
2. Remove and replace the gibs. Reassemble the
gib plate, making certain flat washers are in place
under the gib plate.
3. Readjust the bolts on the side of the wedge plate
as instructed on page 10.
CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
A WARNING: If any adjustments are made
to the engine while the engine is running
(e.g. carburetor), keep clear of all moving
parts. Be careful of heated surfaces and
muffler.
Minor carburetor adjustment may be required to com­
pensate for differences in fuel, temperature, altitude
or load. Improper adjustment will cause stalling when
splitter is under load, hard starting and higher fuel
consumption.
Refer to the separate engine manual packed with
your log splitter for carburetor adjustment information.
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause engine to run
rough. Be certain air cieaner is clean and attached to
the carburetor before adjusting carburetor. Do not
make unnecessary adjustments. Factory settings are
satisfactory for most applications and conditions.
A WARNING: Always stop the engine and
disconnect the spark plug wire before
performing any maintenance or repairs.
RESERVOIR FLUID
Check the hydraulic fluid level in the log splitter reser­
voir tank before each use. Fluid level should be 1-1/2"
to 2" from the top of the tank.
Change the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir every 100
hours of operation. Disconnect the suction hose from
the bottom of the reservoir tank, and drain the fluid
into a suitable container. Refill using only Dexron II
automatic transmission fluid or 10W non-foaming
hydraulic fluid, as instructed in the “Initial
Preparation” section of this manual, page 8. Also,
make certain to change the hydraulic filter.
NOTE: Drain the fluid and fiush the reservoir tank and
hoses with kerosene whenever any repair work is per­
formed on the tank, hydraulic pump or valve.
Contaminants in the fluid will damage the hydraulic
components. (Should be performed by an authorized
service dealer.)
A
WARNING: Use extreme caution when
working with kerosene, as it is an
extremely flammable fluid.
HYDRAULIC FILTER
Change the hydraulic filter every 50 hours of opera­
tion. Use only a 10 micron hydraulic filter. Order part
number 723-0405.
BEAM AND SPLITTING WEDGE
Lubricate both sides of the beam where it contacts the
splitting wedge with engine oil before each use to
obtain years of service. However, normal wear will
occur. The wedge plate on the log splitter is designed
so the gibs on the side of the wedge plate can be eas­
ily removed and rotated and/or turned over for even
wear. Make certain to readjust the adjustment bolts so
wedge moves freely, but no excess space exists
between the wedge plate and beam.
HOSE CLAMPS
Check the hose clamps on the suction hose (attached
to bottom of the pump) for proper tightness before
each use. Check the hose clamps on the return hose
at least once a season.
ENGINE
Refer to the separate engine manual for all engine
maintenance instructions.
Maintain engine oil as instructed in the separate
engine manual packed with your unit. Read and follow
instructions carefully.
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