Is it time to get out your LS 27 log splitter and get some wood split for the fire? These tips will help you protect the hydraulic pump, protect yourself and get the best performance from your machine.
Safety
Wear heavy boots, close-fitting clothing, and safety glasses when operating this machine.
Chock both the front and back of the wheels. The force of the wedge breaking through tough bark is enough to make the splitter jump out of place.
Make sure the beam is locked in position before starting the engine.
Stay in the operator zone when using the splitter. With the beam in the upright position, stand directly behind the splitter. When the beam is in the horizontal position, stand on the right side of the splitter next to the controls.
Setting the Beam Position
Cub Cadet recommends using the splitter with the beam in the vertical position when splitting heavy logs. Using the beam in the horizontal position will let split logs fall into the log tray, requiring less bending to stack them.
The LS 27 has two locks to hold the beam in place. The vertical beam lock is on the left side of the beam next to the engine. The horizontal lock is on the right side of the beam next to the beam support latch.
To engage the vertical lock, pull it out and rotate the handle clockwise 180 degrees. The horizontal lock is spring-loaded and will engage automatically.
Hydraulic Fluid
The fluid level needs to be checked before using the splitter. To get an accurate measurement, start the engine and move the wedge all the way out, then all the way in. The dipstick is on top of the hydraulic tank, between the left wheel and the engine. Check the level and add fluid if needed. Extend and retract the wedge 12 more times to purge any air in the system, and check the fluid level again.
Cub Cadet recommends the following hydraulic fluids:
– Shell Tellus S2 M 32 hydraulic fluid
– Dexron III/Mercon automatic transmission fluid
– Pro-Select AW-32 hydraulic oil
– 10WAW-ISO grade 32 hydraulic oil
Shell Tellus is used at the factory and is recommended when you first top off the hydraulic fluid tank. After that, any of these fluids can be used, but they shouldn’t be mixed.
Setting Up the Log Splitter
Apply clean engine oil to the beam where the wedge will slide. Do not use grease: dust and debris will adhere to the surface, increasing friction and wear.
Before starting the engine, the pump needs to be primed. Disconnect the spark plug, then pull the starter handle as far as it can go 10 times.
Reconnect the spark plug wire and start the engine.
Check the hydraulic fluid level (see above).
Splitting
Logs should have square ends. If one side isn’t even, place the log so that the uneven side faces the wedge. Logs with crotches should be placed with the crotch lined up with the wedge. If the splitter is in the vertical position, turn the log until it leans against the beam. Cutting logs to a consistent length will help them age evenly. The standard log length is 16 inches.
Use your left hand to steady the log while you operate the controls with your right hand. Support the side of the log, never the top. Never use your foot. Keep your hands away from splits: if the wedge is dislodged, the wood can close on your fingers. Instead, retract the cylinder until the wood is pushed off of the wedge.
Towing
The LS 27 is mounted on a trailer designed for a maximum speed of 45 mph. The beam must be locked in the horizontal position before towing.
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