How to Repair Manual Log Splitters
Log splitters come in many types, including gas-operated, electrical, and manual ones. Manual hydraulic log splitters are more economical than their counterparts, but are not immune from mechanical problems. If they are properly maintained, repair costs can be kept to a minimum.
Directions:
Problems with welded joints:
- Inspect the connections on the log splitter that have been welded together to make sure that they are still solid. Because the splitters regularly work on heavy logs, the welding can wear and come apart at the seams.
- Use an electric drill and a wire brush attachment to strip the paint at the welding joint.
- Before welding, wear your welding mask and gloves. Turn on your welder and put a 3/32 rod into the clamp. Start welding by slowly running the welding rod along the joints that need to be re-welded.
Repairing the broken bottle jack:
- Removing any air trapped into the hydraulic bottle jack is the first step in finding the problems with that part of the splitters. Do this by positioning the jack in an upright position and turning the air purge valve a half turn in a counterclockwise direction.
- Locate the oil filler plug, which is positioned on the side of the jack. Pull it out, and put the handle into the hole of the jack. Pump it about eight times.
- Inspect the oil fill hole's oil level. If needed, add oil to get it to the proper level. Put the oil fill plug back into place and tighten the purge valve to where it was before.
- Maintain the splitters by inspecting the working parts. It is good to do this at least quarterly. If rust starts to build on the unit, wipe it off with an oily cloth.