Joint welding is a common repair need for imported log splitters.
A manual hydraulic log splitter is much simpler than gas-operated and electrical ones. There are less mechanical parts and less of a chance of problems. Still, certain things can and do break down over time. Small repairs can prevent bigger problems in the future. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Fix Welded Joints
1. Check the welded connections on the log splitter to make sure they are all sound. Welds can coming apart after splitting only a small number of logs. This is one of the main problems with cheaply made imported log splitters.
2. Clean off the paint at the joint areas using an electric drill with a wire brush disc attachment. Read about the process of welding. "Welding Basics" is a good introduction (see Resources).
3. Put on the welding gloves and mask, insert a 3/32 welding rod into the clamp, lower your mask and turn on the welding system. Begin gently moving the welding rod across some scrap metal for practice before repairing your log splitter joints.
Fix a Broken Bottle Jack
4. Troubleshoot a weak hydraulic bottle jack first by purging any trapped air from the system. Stand the jack upright and open the air purge valve a half turn counterclockwise using the handle (see Resources).
5. Remove the oil filler plug on the side of the jack. Insert the handle into the jack hole and pump six to eight times.
6. Keep parts lubricated and maintain the correct oil level.
Check the oil level inside the oil fill hole. If it is not up to the hole level, add hydraulic oil as required. Replace the oil fill plug and re-tighten the air purge valve.
7. Check all the working parts every two to three months for signs of rust. Wipe the rust with an oily cloth until it is gone.
Tags: imported splitters, purge valve
