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.

Most common symptoms to help you fix your log splitters

Choose a symptom to see related log splitter repairs.

Main cause: worn hydraulic cylinder seals…

Main cause: worn hydraulic valve seals around the actuator rod…

Main causes: broken pump coupler, clogged hydraulic fluid filter, bad hydraulic control valve, broken hydraulic pump, ba…

Main causes: leaky head gasket, damaged sump gasket, leaky oil drain plug, damaged fuel line, bad carburetor seals…

Main cause: worn hydraulic pump seals…

Main causes: dirty carburetor, bad spark plug, clogged air filter, stale fuel…

Main causes: dirty carburetor, stale fuel, bad spark plug, broken recoil starter…

Most common repair guides to help fix your 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 flexible pump coupler

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 v…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a log splitter recoil starter

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 relea…

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

How to replace a log splitter carburetor

The carburetor mixes air and gas before the fuel mix goes to the engine. If the engine won't start and the spark plug is…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less

Effective articles & videos to help repair your log splitters

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

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.…

How to maintain the hydraulic system in a log splitter

How to maintain the hydraulic system in a log splitter

See how to properly maintain the hydraulic system in your log splitter.…

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.…