MTD 243-638-000 - Manual (Page 12)

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENT
A WARNING: If any adjustments an; made
to the engine while the engine is i unning
(e.g. carburetor), keep clear of all noving
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 stallir g when
splitter is under load, hard starting and hig ier fuel
consumption.
Refer to the separate engine manual packsd with
your log splitter for carburetor adjustment infer nation.
NOTE: A dirty air cleaner will cause engine to run
rough. Be certain air cleaner is clean and attached to
the carburetor before adjusting carburetor. Do not
make unnecessary adjustments. Factory settings are
satisfactory for most applications and conditior s.
A
MAINTENANCE ____
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 b ? 1-1/2"
to 2" from the top of the tank.
Change the hydraulic fluid in the reservoir ev?ry 100
hours of operation. Disconnect the suction hoje from
the bottom of the reservoir tank, and drain tie fluid
into a suitable container. Refill using only D(}xron II
automatic transmission fluid or 10W non-foaming
hydraulic
fluid, as instructed in the ‘Initial
Preparation” section of this manual, page 9. Also,
make certain to change the hydraulic filter.
NOTE: Drain the fluid and flush the reservoir tank and
hoses with kerosene whenever any repair worl: is per­
formed on the tank, hydraulic pump or valve.
Contaminants in the fluid will damage the hydraulic
components. (Should be performed by an auihorized
service dealer.)
A
WARNING: Use extreme cautior when
working with kerosene, as it is an
extremeiy 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.
HDSE 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.
Service air cleaner every 25 hours under normal con­
ditions. Clean every few hours under extremely dusty
conditions. Poor engine performance and flooding
usually indicates that the air cleaner should be ser­
viced. To service the air cleaner refer to the separate
engine manual packed with your unit.
The spark plug should be cleaned and the gap reset
once a season. Spark plug replacement is recom­
mended at the start of each season; check engine
manual for correct plug type and gap specification.
Clean the engine regularly with a cloth or brush.
Keep the cooling system (blower housing area) clean
to permit proper air circulation which is essential to
engine performance and life. Be certain to remove all
dirt and combustible debris from muffler area.
FLEXIBLE PUMP CDUPLER
The flexible pump coupler is a nylon “spider” insert,
located between the pump and engine shaft. Over a
period of time, the coupler will harden and deteriorate.
Replacement is needed if you detect vibration or noise
coming from the area between the engine and the
pump. If the coupler fails completely, you will experi­
ence a loss of power.
IMPORTANT: Never hit the pump shaft in any
manner, as any biow wiii cause permanent dam­
age to the pump.
When replacing the flexible pump coupling, proceed
as follows. Follow the instructions carefully as the
alignment is very critical.
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark
plug, and secure it away from the spark plug.
1 2