How to Use a Gasoline 35 Ton Wood Log Splitter？

I. Pre-Operation Preparation

1. Equipment Inspection (Core Safety Prerequisite)

Hydraulic System Inspection: Check that the hydraulic oil level is within the specified range (a low level may result in insufficient pressure or damage to the pump). Check the oil pipes and joints for leaks (hydraulic oil leaks may cause a sudden drop in pressure or component damage). Verify that the hydraulic pump and cylinder are operating normally (no abnormal noise or sticking).

Powertrain Inspection: For gasoline engines, check the fuel tank and engine oil levels, check that the spark plugs are clean and free of carbon deposits, and that the oil lines are unobstructed (try pulling the starter cord dry to confirm the engine is not sticking).

Mechanical Component Inspection: Check that the splitting blade (split wedge) is sharp and free of cracks, and that the mounting bolts are tight (looseness may cause the splitting blade to fall off). Check that the workbench (wood rack) is stable and that the anti-slip mat is in place to prevent wood from sliding.

Safety Device Inspection: Verify that the emergency stop button, protective cover (such as the cylinder cover), and safety interlock (some models have one, which prevents splitting from starting when no wood is loaded) are functioning properly, and that the operating handle is flexible and not sticking. 

2. Site and Environmental Preparation

Placement: Choose a flat, hard surface (such as concrete or compacted soil). Use a level to ensure the machine is stable (tilting may cause the wood to fall or the machine to shake). If necessary, place rocks or steel plates on the bottom for reinforcement.

Safety Distance: Leave at least 8-10 meters around the machine, away from people, pets, and flammable objects (such as gasoline barrels and hay). Do not operate near buildings or walls to prevent wood from rebounding and hitting the machine.

Environmental Conditions: Avoid rain, strong winds (≥ level 5), or high temperatures (≥ 35°C)—rainy weather can cause slippage, strong winds can cause the wood to shift, and high temperatures can cause the engine to overheat.

3. Wood Pretreatment

Remove impurities: Check the wood for metal (nails, wire), stones, or other hard objects to prevent damage to the splitter or hydraulic system. (Hard objects can cause the splitter to crack and contaminate the hydraulic fluid.) Size: Based on the rated splitting diameter of the machine (35-ton models can typically split logs ≤ 30 cm in diameter), cut overly thick logs into sections that meet the requirements (excessive thickness may cause the machine to jam or overload the hydraulic system). Keep log length within the machine's worktable (generally ≤ 1.2 meters; longer logs may cause imbalance).

Wood Condition: Avoid splitting wood with excessive moisture (such as freshly felled wood) or visible cracks. Wet wood can be harder, and cracked wood may suddenly break and fragment when split.

II. Specific Operation Procedures

1. Starting the Machine

Open the fuel tank, adjust the throttle to "idle," close the throttle (when starting a cold machine), and slowly pull the starter rope handle until resistance is felt. Then, quickly and firmly pull to start the engine (similar to starting a gasoline generator). After starting the engine, open the throttle and idle for 1-2 minutes (to warm up the engine and hydraulic system, especially in cold temperatures). Observe for any unusual noises, smoke, or oil leaks. Once normal operation is confirmed, adjust the speed to "operating speed" (usually medium-high).

2. Positioning the Wood

Hold the wood at both ends with both hands and place it firmly on the workbench, ensuring the wood's centerline is aligned with the splitting blade (perpendicular to the splitting blade to prevent tilting and causing the wood to tip over during splitting).

The bottom of the wood should be flat against the workbench, and the top should be as close to the splitting blade as possible (but not touching). If the wood is short, place blocks on one side to prevent it from slipping during splitting.

Do not support the wood with one hand: Hold the wood firmly with both hands on both sides, keeping your fingers away from the splitting blade and the edge of the wood (at least 15 cm away to prevent pinching).

3. Splitting Operation

After ensuring the wood is securely placed, slowly move the hydraulic operating handle (usually marked "Forward/Split") to advance the splitting blade toward the wood at a steady speed. During the splitting process, keep a close eye on the wood and the splitter. If you notice the wood shifting, getting stuck, or making unusual noises, immediately release the handle (some models automatically retract the splitter after the handle is reset). Wait until the splitter has fully retracted before adjusting the wood.

After the wood is split, return the splitter to its original position by pulling the handle, remove the split wood, and proceed to the next operation.

Do not operate continuously: After every 3-5 splits, let the machine idle for 30 seconds to prevent overheating of the hydraulic system (especially in summer).

4. Shutdown Procedure

First, turn the throttle to "idle" to allow the engine and hydraulic system to cool for 1-2 minutes.

Shutdown the engine: Turn off the throttle. After the engine stops completely, turn off the fuel tank (drain the fuel tank when not in use for an extended period to prevent fuel deterioration).

If you need to pause during operation (for example, to add wood), reset the operating handle and confirm that the splitter has returned to its original position before leaving the machine. III. Post-Operation Maintenance and Care

Cleaning the Equipment: Clear wood chips and bark from the workbench. Rinse the equipment surface with a high-pressure water jet (avoid directly spraying the engine and hydraulic components). Wipe dry to prevent rust.

Hydraulic System Maintenance: Check the hydraulic oil level weekly and change the hydraulic oil monthly (or according to the manual). Clean the hydraulic oil filter during replacement to prevent impurities from entering the system.

Engine Maintenance: Change the engine oil regularly according to gasoline engine requirements (5 hours after the first use, and every 50 hours thereafter). Clean the air filter to prevent dust clogging and power loss. Check the spark plug condition every 100 hours.

Component Maintenance: Check the riving blade monthly for wear. If the cutting edge is dull, sharpen it with a grinding wheel. Tighten all loose bolts and lubricate movable joints (such as the handle shaft and workbench hinge). IV. Safety Precautions (Must Strictly Follow)

Protective Equipment: Safety shoes (to protect against falling wood and feet), thick gloves (to protect against scratches and crushing), goggles (to protect against flying wood chips), and earplugs (the noise level is typically ≥ 90 decibels to protect hearing). Long hair should be tied up, and loose clothing is prohibited to prevent entanglement in components.

Prohibited Operations:

Do not push wood with your hands or tools while the splitter is in motion (even with gloves on) (this can cause crushing);

Do not split wood exceeding the rated diameter of the machine (this can overload the hydraulic system and break the splitter);

Do not bend over or lean over the workbench while operating (to prevent wood from rebounding and impacting).

Emergency Procedures: If wood becomes stuck, the machine makes unusual noises, or leaks oil, immediately press the emergency stop button to shut off the engine. Wait until the machine comes to a complete stop before inspecting. (Do not attempt to troubleshoot while the machine is running.)

Proper Operation: Children and untrained personnel are strictly prohibited. Operators must maintain full concentration and avoid operating while intoxicated, fatigued, or taking sedatives.