How to Maintain a Log Splitter – 7 Steps to Save Time and Money

Without properly maintaining a log splitter, it will not work very well. Its efficiency will keep on reducing. That is why maintenance is a necessity rather than optional.

The question is, how to maintain a log splitter?

We will share a step-by-step guide below, which will help you know more about the maintenance steps.

1. Inspect the user manual:

Most manuals of the log splitters come along with the troubleshooting as well as a maintenance procedure. When you want to conduct maintenance, the first thing you need to do is to check the manual. Once you do so, it becomes really easy for you to know the steps you need to undertake.

If you do not have the user manual handy on do not want to go through it, you can follow the steps below.

2. Check the hoses:

The first thing you must do is check the hoses.

These usually connect the ram cylinder with the reservoir. If there is any problem with the hydraulic fluid or hydraulic reservoir leaking, the problem is most likely to be the hose. That is why you have to first look at the hose.

If you find the leakage or a cut in the hose, it is better to replace the hose altogether.

That way, you can preserve the hydraulic fluid and prevent any leaks.

3. Refill the hydraulic fluid:

During the maintenance, it is also necessary to check the hydraulic fluid reservoir. You have to replace the hydraulic fluid at least once a year.

However, rather than using any hydraulic fluid stored earlier, it is good to use fresh hydraulic fluid. That will undoubtedly increase the log splitter’s efficiency and ensure that the wear and tear is reduced significantly.

4. Lubricate the moving parts:

Lubrication is an essential aspect of the log splitter. If the moving parts are not lubricated, it will become difficult for you to use the splitter.

That is why, when it comes to parts like ram, you have to ensure that they are fully lubricated. During the maintenance, you have to grease every inch of the ram to ensure that it operates smoothly.

If you notice any rust on the ram, you have to eliminate that rust with a proper cleaning procedure.

5. Inspect the engine:

Engine maintenance is equally important when looking after your log splitter. Firstly, you have to check the engine oil. The engine oil levels should be full. If they are low, you might have to add some engine oil to them.

Additionally, you have to look at the carburetor as well. There shouldn’t be any residue from the carburetor. Apart from that, look at things like the spark plug and the electrodes. If you notice any residue on the same, you have to clean the same.

If you aren’t sure how to eliminate the residue, the manual can undoubtedly come to your rescue.

6. Check the pull cord:

Pull cord often suffers from a lot of wear and tear over time. It can fray out if you have been using the log splitter for years now. If it breaks down, you will not be able to turn on the log splitter.

To avoid this problem, you must observe the pull cord during maintenance. If you notice any wear and tear, you will have to replace the pull cord.

There is no use in repairing it. Replacing is a much better option.

7. Check the pump:

In the last, check the pump itself. If any parts of the pump, like the central spindle, are loose, you have to work on fixing that. Loose parts can decrease the pump’s efficiency and might break down the log splitter as well.

When checking the central spindle and other parts of the pump, make sure that you look at the bearings as well. The bearings should not be loose, and if they are worn out, they should be replaced. If the condition of bearings is proper, you have to lubricate them.

In these seven simple steps, you can maintain a log splitter and increase its efficiency and lifespan. Rather than spending a lot of money by hiring a professional, simply follow this handy guide, and you shouldn’t have any problems with your log splitter.