November 01, 2015

How to maintain the hydraulic system in a log splitter

How to maintain the hydraulic system in a log splitter.
How to maintain the hydraulic system in a log splitter.

Your log splitter depends on the hydraulic system to operate properly. Failure to maintain the components of the system will cause poor performance and permanent damage. To keep your log splitter in good working order, follow these simple tips.

  • Always check the hydraulic fluid level before each use and maintain the fluid level within the range indicated on the dipstick. 

  • When adding hydraulic fluid, always use the same type as what is already in the reservoir—do not mix different types of hydraulic fluid—check your owner's manual for the recommended hydraulic fluid.

  • Replace the hydraulic filter after every 50 hours of operation.  

  • Change the hydraulic fluid and clean the reservoir tank screen after every 100 hours of operation.

Symptoms common to all log splitters

Choose a symptom to see related log splitter repairs.

Main causes: dirty carburetor, bad spark plug, clogged air filter, stale fuel
Main causes: broken pump coupler, clogged hydraulic fluid filter, bad hydraulic control valve, broken hydraulic pump, bad hydraulic cylinder
Main cause: worn hydraulic valve seals around the actuator rod
Main cause: worn hydraulic cylinder seals
Main cause: worn hydraulic pump seals
Main causes: leaky head gasket, damaged sump gasket, leaky oil drain plug, damaged fuel line, bad carburetor seals
Main causes: dirty carburetor, stale fuel, bad spark plug, broken recoil starter

Repair guides common to all log splitters

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your log splitter.

How to replace a log splitter recoil starter

The recoil starter spins the engine on the log splitter when you pull the starter rope, and the rope retracts when released. If the recoil starter assembly is broken, follow the steps in this repair guide to replace it.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a log splitter flexible pump coupler

The flexible nylon log splitter pump coupler deteriorates over time. Replace the flexible pump coupler if it begins to vibrate or rattles, which are early indications that it’s failing.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a log splitter fuel line

The fuel line carries the fuel supply from the gas tank to the carburetor. If the fuel line is cracked and leaking, replace it.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less

Articles and videos common to all log splitters

Use the advice and tips in these articles to get the most out of your log splitter.

December 28, 2018

Find the right carburetor assembly for a Craftsman snowblower, tiller or log splitter

Find the right carburetor assembly for a Craftsman snowblower, tiller or log splitter

This chart will help you find the right carburetor for your Craftsman snowblower, tiller or log splitter.

June 01, 2015

Log splitter common questions

Log splitter common questions

Learn more about your log splitter with these frequently asked questions.

June 01, 2015

How to change the hydraulic fluid in a log splitter

How to change the hydraulic fluid in a log splitter

Learn how to change the hydraulic fluid in your log splitter.