BILT HARD 30-Ton Gas Powered Hydraulic Log Splitter

1. Safety Information

Operating a log splitter can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not followed. Always read and understand the entire manual before operating the machine. Failure to follow instructions can result in serious injury or death.

General Safety Rules:

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
• Never operate the log splitter alone. Ensure another person is within sight or hearing distance.
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance from the work area.
• Operate the log splitter on a firm, level surface to prevent tipping.
• Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts.
• Ensure all guards and safety devices are in place and functioning correctly before operation.
• Never place hands or feet near the splitting wedge or ram during operation.
• Only split logs that are within the specified length and diameter limits of the machine.
• Inspect logs for nails, wire, or other foreign objects before splitting.
• Do not attempt to split frozen logs.
• Turn off the engine and allow all moving parts to stop before performing any adjustments or maintenance.

2. Product Overview

The BILT HARD 30-Ton Gas Powered Hydraulic Log Splitter is designed for efficient and powerful splitting of hardwood logs. Featuring a robust 223cc OHV engine and a 2-stage gear pump, it delivers 30 tons of splitting force. Its versatile design allows for both horizontal and vertical operation, accommodating logs up to 24 inches in length. Equipped with 16-inch DOT-certified tires and a 2-inch ball coupler, it offers convenient towing for transport.

Figure 2.1: BILT HARD 30-Ton Log Splitter in horizontal position.

3. Setup & Assembly

This section provides detailed instructions for assembling your BILT HARD 30-Ton Log Splitter. It is recommended to have at least two people for assembly due to the weight of the components. Refer to the assembly video for visual guidance.

Tools Required:

• Rubber or Wooden Hammer
• 13mm, 14mm, 16mm, 17mm, 18mm, 19mm, 27mm Wrenches
• Large Adjustable Wrench
• Phillips or Standard Screwdriver
• Pliers

Assembly Video:

Assembly Steps:

1. Uncrating the Unit: Set the shipping crate on a solid, flat surface. Carefully cut the shipping bands to disassemble the crate and access the components.
2. Install the Oil Filter: Using a 27mm wrench, install the oil filter into the corresponding port of the hydraulic tank. The tightening torque should exceed 60 N·m (a tolerance of ± 5° is allowed).
3. Install the Tow Bar:
   • Remove the bolts, washers, and lock nuts from the hydraulic oil tank and set them aside.
   • Rotate the support leg to a vertical position and lock it in place using the lock pin. Ensure the tow bar is approximately level with the ground.
   • Using an 18mm or 19mm wrench, attach the tow bar to the bracket on top of the hydraulic tank using the appropriate bolts, nuts, and washers previously removed.
4. Install the Wheels:
   • Remove the cotter pin and castle nut from the axle of the hydraulic oil tank. Set them aside.
   • Remove the plastic shipping caps. Ensure the tire valve stem is facing out and slide the wheel onto the axle. If the wheel bearing is accidentally knocked out, reinstall it.
   • Thread the castle nut onto the axle and tighten by hand. Adjust the castle nut to align the holes, making sure not to overtighten. Insert the cotter pin and bend with pliers.
   • Install the axle cap using a soft mallet. Repeat these steps for the other wheel.
5. Install the Beam:
   • Stand the beam vertically on the foot plate. (Recommended to be installed by 2 people at least).
   • Remove the hitch pin and R pin.
   • Roll the tank into position so the pivot holes on the tank and beam are aligned.
   • Secure the beam with the hitch pin and R pin.
   • Block the wheels to prevent the frame from rolling and pivot the beam into the horizontal position. Check that the lock pin automatically aligns and inserts smoothly into the corresponding hole on the tow bar. Ensure smooth operation of the lock pin.
6. Install the Engine: Place the engine and gear pump assembly onto the engine mounting plate of the hydraulic oil tank. Secure it with the appropriate hardware (bolts, nuts, washers) as specified in your operator's manual. You will need a 13mm or 14mm wrench.
7. Install the Hoses:
   • Remove the red shipping plug from the gear pump. Using the provided hose clamps, connect one end of the clear oil hose to the pump inlet and the other end to the hydraulic tank.
   • Please ensure the two high-pressure hoses are connected to the correct positions (A and B as indicated in the assembly video).
   • Remove the white shipping plug from the gear pump, install the O-ring into the outlet fitting, then attach the hydraulic hose assembly's A-end to the pump outlet connector. Tighten with a torque of 50-60 N·m. You will need a 27mm or adjustable wrench.
   • Screw the B-end nut of the return hydraulic hose into the oil filter inlet connector, and tighten with a torque of 70-80 N·m. You will need a 27mm or adjustable wrench.
8. Install the Log Catchers:
   • Attach the large log catcher to the engine side of the beam using the 16mm wrench and appropriate bolts, nuts, and washers.
   • Attach the small log catcher on the opposite side with appropriate bolts, nuts, and washers. You will need the 17mm wrench and 6mm allen wrench.
9. Install the Fenders: Attach the first fender to the side of the hydraulic oil tank using the 16mm wrench and appropriate bolts, nuts, and washers. The safety reflector should be facing the back of the hydraulic tank. Repeat these steps on the second fender.
10. Complete your Installation: Remove the pins from the control valve lever, then secure the lever by reinserting the pins once it has been raised to the proper position.

4. Operating Instructions

This section outlines the procedures for safely operating your BILT HARD 30-Ton Log Splitter in both horizontal and vertical modes.

Operating Video:

Pre-Operation Checklist:

• Check engine oil level.
• Check hydraulic fluid level.
• Ensure all connections are secure and free from leaks.
• Verify that the work area is clear of debris and bystanders.
• Confirm the log splitter is on a stable, level surface.

Starting the Engine:

1. Open the fuel valve.
2. Set the choke to the 'ON' position (if cold starting).
3. Move the throttle lever to the 'FAST' position.
4. Pull the recoil starter handle until the engine starts.
5. Once the engine is running, gradually move the choke to the 'OFF' position.

Horizontal Operation:

1. Place a log onto the splitting beam against the wedge.
2. Engage the control lever to extend the ram, pushing the log into the wedge.
3. Once the log is split, release the control lever to allow the ram to return automatically.

Figure 4.2: Horizontal splitting operation with 30-Ton force.

Vertical Operation:

1. Ensure the log splitter is securely locked in the vertical position.
2. Roll a log onto the foot plate, positioning it under the wedge.
3. Engage the control lever to extend the ram, splitting the log downwards.
4. Release the control lever for automatic ram return.

Figure 4.3: Vertical splitting operation for larger logs.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and safe operation of your log splitter. Always turn off the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Engine Maintenance:

• Oil Change: Change engine oil after the first 5 hours of operation, then every 50 hours or annually. Refer to the engine manual for specific oil type and capacity.
• Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter every 25 hours or more frequently in dusty conditions.
• Spark Plug: Inspect and clean the spark plug every 100 hours. Replace if necessary.

Hydraulic System Maintenance:

• Hydraulic Fluid: Check the hydraulic fluid level before each use. Change the hydraulic fluid annually or every 100 hours of operation. Use recommended hydraulic fluid.
• Hoses and Fittings: Inspect all hydraulic hoses and fittings for wear, damage, or leaks before each use. Replace any damaged components immediately.
• Oil Filter: Replace the hydraulic oil filter annually or every 100 hours.

General Maintenance:

• Cleaning: Keep the log splitter clean and free of debris, especially around the engine and hydraulic components.
• Lubrication: Lubricate all pivot points and moving parts as recommended in the manual.
• Wedge Inspection: Inspect the splitting wedge for sharpness and damage. Sharpen or replace as needed.

6. Troubleshooting

This section provides solutions to common problems you might encounter with your log splitter. For issues not listed here, contact customer support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty & Support

BILT HARD is committed to providing reliable products and excellent customer service.

Customer Support:

If you have any questions or encounter problems with your BILT HARD gas wood splitter, please contact us freely by Amazon email. Assistance from our support team is readily available.

Warranty Information:

For detailed warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your product or contact BILT HARD customer support.