MTD 556 - Manual (Page 4)

2. Know how to stop the unit and disengage the contro s.
3. Never place hands or feet between log and splittinc wedge or
between log and end plate during forward or reversf stroke. To
do so may result In crushed or amputated fingers 3r toes, or
worse, you may lose an arm or foot.
4. Do not straddle the splitter when using it. A slip in a ly position
could result in a serious injury.
5. Do not step over your log splitter when the engine s running.
You may trip or accidentally activate the splitting w idge if you
step over. If you need to get to the other side, walk a ound.
6. Never try to split two logs on top of each other. One nay fly out
and injure you.
7. When loading the log splitter, place your hands on the side of
the log, not at the ends. Never attempt to load your si ilitter while
the splitting wedge is in motion. You may get caight by the
wedge and injured.
8. Only use your hand to operate the splitting wedge or control
lever. Never use your foot or a rope or any othe extension
device. This could result in your inability to stop yDur splitter
quickly enough to avoid injury.
9. Always keep fingers away from any cracks that ope i in the log
during splitting operation. They can quickly close and pinch or
amputate your fingers.
10. Never attempt to split woods across the grain. Some types of
wood may burst or fly out of your splitter and result in injury to
you or a bystander.
11. For logs that are not cut square, the longest portion of the log
should be rotated down and the most square end placed against
the splitting wedge.
12. Keep your work area clean. Immediately remove split wood
around your splitter so that you do not stumble over it. Clean
chips and dirt off end plate (wood platform) after aach log is
split, or whenever necessary to maintain flat contfct between
wood and end plate (platform).
13. Never move the log splitter while the engine is runnhg.
14. Never leave your log splitter unattended with the engine
running. Shut off the engine if you are leaving your s slitter, even
for a short period of time. Someone could accident illy activate
the splitting wedge and be injured.
15. Do not run engine in an enclosed area. Exhaust gases contain
carbon monoxide. This odorless gas can be di adly when
inhaled.
16. Be careful not to touch the muffler after the engire has been
running. It will be HOT!
17. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormal y, stop the
engine and check immediately for the cause, ''ibration is
generally a warning of trouble.
18. When cleaning, repairing or inspecting, make certain all moving
parts have stopped. Disconnect the spark plug wi e and keep
the wire away from the plug to prevent accidental st irting.
3. Replace all damaged or worn parts such as hydraulic hoses and
fittings immediately with manufacturer approved replacement
parts.
4. Do not change the engine governor settings or overspeed the
engine. This increases the hazard of personal injury. The
maximum engine speed is preset by the manufacturer and is
within safety limits.
5. Do not alter your 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. Such alterations may cause your splitter to be
unsafe.
6. Perform all recommended maintenance procedures before you
use your splitter.
7. Do not service or repair your log splitter without disconnecting
the spark plug wire and moving it away from the spark plug.
8. Never store the equipment with gasoline in the tank inside of a
building where ignition sources are present, such as hot water
and space heaters, clothes dryers and the like. Allow the engine
to cool before storing in any enclosure.
9. Always store gasoline in an approved, tightly sealed container.
Store the container in a cool, dry place. Do not store in a
building where ignition sources are present.
10. To reduce fire hazard, keep engine free of grass, leaves, wood
chips, and excessive grease and oil.
11. The hydraulic system of your log splitter requires careful
inspection, along with the mechanical parts. Be sure to replace
frayed, kinked, or otherwise damaged hydraulic components.
12. Fluid escaping from a very small hole can be almost invisible.
Do not check for leaks with your hand. Escaping fluid under
pressure can have sufficient force to penetrate skin, causing
serious personal injury. Leaks can be located by passing a piece
of cardboard or wood over the suspected leak and looking for
discoloration.
13. 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.
14. Do not remove the cap from the hydraulic tank or reservoir
while your log splitter is running. Hot oil under pressure could
cause injury.
15. The pressure relief valve on your splitter is preset at the factory.
Do not adjust the valve. Only a qualified service technician
should perform this adjustment.
16. Completely drain fuel tank prior to storage. This guards against
accumulation of fuel fumes which could result in a fire hazard.
17. Never store log splitter outside without a waterproof cover. Rain
will cause rust on the inside of the cylinder.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES
> 1. Do not operate your splitter in poor mechanical l ondition or
when in need of repair.
2. Periodically check that all nuts, bolts, screws, hose clamps and
hydraulic fittings are tight to be sure equipment is ii i safe work­
ing condition. Where appropriate, check all safety guards and
shields to be sure they are in the proper position. N iver operate
your splitter with safety guards, shields or other pr jtective fea­
tures removed. These safety devices are for your pr )tection.
TOWING
k 1. This unit should not be towed on any street, highway or public
road without checking the existing federal, local or state vehicle
requirements. Any licensing or modifications such as taillights,
etc., needed to comply with the existing federal, local or state
vehicle requirements is the sole responsibility of the purchaser.
2. Before towing, be certain the log splitter is correctly and
securely attached to the towing vehicle, and the safety chains
are in place. Leave slack in chains for turning allowance.
3. Do not allow anyone to sit or ride on your splitter. They can
easily fall off and be seriously injured.