Harbor Freight Tools 40318 - Manual (Page 6)

OPERATION
Please Refer to Figure 2 on page 5 in following these instructions
1. Plan your work site. Work safely and save effort by planning your work before hand. Have your
logs positioned where they can be easily reached. Have a site located to stack the split wood or load it
onto a nearby truck or other carrier.
2. Prepare the logs for splitting. This splitter accomodates logs up to 14-1/2” in length. When
cutting up limbs and large sections, do not cut sections any longer than 14”. Do not attempt to split green
logs. Dry, seasoned logs split much more easily, and will not jam as frequently as green wood.
3. Route the power cord. Locate an appropriate power outlet, and secure an adequate extension
cord, if needed. Route the cord from the splitter to the power source in a way that safeguards against
tripping on the cord, or the cord becoming damaged during the work session. Be sure to avoid wet condi-
tions.
4. Position Splitter Securely. Be sure the Splitter is positioned firmly on level, solid ground. If
necessary, block the Wheels (#25) with wedges to prevent them from rolling.
5. Open the Air Bleed. Loosen the Bleed Screw (#14) - [located on the Front Cover (#15)]
3-4 turns whenever the splitter is being used. Retighten this screw when you are finished.
6. Place log onto Splitter. Place the log onto the splitter, lengthwise and lying flat on the Main
Body (#47).
The log should lie flat on the Splitter, and be cradled by the Guide (#46). Never attempt to split a log at
an angle. Be sure the Wedge and Log Pusher (#49) will contact the log squarely on the ends.
7. Two hand operation. When it is safe to do so, depress the Switch (#36) with one hand. Wait a
few seconds as the motor spins up and creates pressure in the Hydraulic pump. Then, when it is safe to do
so, depress the Handle A (#60). The Log Pusher (#49) will compress the log, pushing it against the Wedge,
splitting the log. Once the log is split, release both the Switch (#36) and Handle A (#60); this will allow the
Log Pusher (#49) to retract.
Warning: If the log does not split immediately, do not force it by maintaining the thrust
for more than a few seconds. This can damage the tool. It is better to try repositioning the log on
the splitter, or setting the log aside.
8. Stack as you work. This will provide a safer work area, by keeping it uncluttered, and avoid the
danger of tripping, or damaging the power cord.
9. Remember to retighten the Bleed Screw (#14) when you are finished.
Page 6 SKU # 40318