Problems With Log Splitters

Hose Leak

• The hydraulic system has several fluid-carrying hoses running throughout the system. The hoses can become pinched, loosen or degrade, creating leaks. Once a leak occurs, the hydraulic system will fail to work properly because of lack of fluid. Cleaning the hoses, replacing damaged hoses or periodically tightening the connection will prevent this problem.

Filters

• The log splitter has an oil filter, gas line filter and air filter located on the engine. After every five hours of work, replace the oil filter. A clogged oil filter causes the engine to overheat. The gas line filter or fuel filter prevents debris from entering the engine compartment. The engine will cough or not start once the fuel filter clogs. Clean the fuel filter at the end of every season. The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the carburetor. Clean it after every use.

Wedge

• The wood splitter wedge cuts or splits a log into pieces. Corrosion or damage to the wedge are common problems. Lubricate the slide beam on either side of the wedge to ensure a smooth flow of the log. Sharpen the wedge before each use to knock down any chipped pieces on the blade. An axe-head is the same thing as the wedge on a log splitter. It requires the same kind of maintenance to ensure it does not corrode or get damaged.

Spark Plugs

• Every seven years replace the spark plugs and have an authorized technician do necessary care on the engine. The spark plugs ignite the fuel, which allows the engine to run smoothly. Over time, igniting the plugs causes burn marks, wearing down the end of the plugs. The engine will not start when the spark plugs wear down. Before removing the spark plug, lean and inspect the spark plug wire to ensure the cable is in good order. The cable can break or kink, preventing electricity from getting to the spark plug.

Choke

• Log splitters have a choke located along the carburetor for starting purposes. The choke has small movable parts which can break or become damaged easily. The engine begins to run erratically when the choke lever doesn't work properly. A label usually indicates different choke positions: a start position, neutral position and run position. The choke can stick in one of these positions, causing the engine to misfire or cough.