Are you a homeowner looking to change the hydraulic filter on your log splitter, but don’t know how to? If so, then you are definitely in the right place at the right time.
Changing a hydraulic filter on a log splitter is all about locking the splitter, affixing a strap wrench or filter wrench to the bottom of the hydraulic filter, turning the wrench to remove the filter, rubbing the seal on the new filter, placing the new filter into position, and tightening the filter. If you’re changing the hydraulic filter on your log splitter, make sure that you’re choosing the right type of hydraulic filter. The replacement will typically be specified by the manufacturer of the log splitter, and using the wrong type of filter could damage the log splitter.
In this article, you will get to know all about hydraulic filters on log splitters, how to change hydraulic filter on log splitter, what kind of hydraulic fluid should your log splitter use, things to know before changing the hydraulic filter on a log splitter, and more. Continue reading to get all the answers that you are looking for.
Change the hydraulic filter on a log splitter
Even the most tried and tested log splitters also require a bit of maintenance from time to time. One of the most important components needed for the smooth working of a log splitter is changing the hydraulic filter from time to time. If you want your machine to keep splitting wood for years to come, make sure that you check the hydraulic fluid regularly.
Whether you’re using an electric or gas-powered log splitter, it’s recommended that you should change the hydraulic fluid every 100 hours of log splitting. Just like your car needs oil changing, you will also need to change the hydraulic filter of your log splitter.
Hydraulics is a pressurized fluid for powering the engine, and it’s the main power transfer source of the log splitter. Hydraulic log splitters will also depend on the power/pressure generated by the hydraulic filter for pushing the wedge. Even a small amount of fluid can generate a great deal of power. This power is why you’re able to split a cord of wood without a sore back.
A motor will be used for pumping the hydraulic fluid and the fluid will get pressurized as it’ll be concealed in a hollow fluid pipe and cylinder. This pressure will move your machine’s piston against your wood of choice.
Over time, the hydraulic fluid and hydraulic oil filter will be degraded based on exposure to oxygen, excessive temperatures, or other contaminants. This will cause the oil to release a crud, which then corrodes hydraulic parts or leaves surface deposits on these parts. This means a shorter life span for your log splitter when the hydraulic fluid isn’t changed regularly.
Choose the right type of hydraulic filter
When it comes to changing the hydraulic filter, it’ll be important to complete the process the right way. Failure to do so could result in numerous issues down the road. Although the steps are basic to follow, knowing how to change the filter won’t be enough.
The type of hydraulic filter chosen as the replacement will be important as well. The replacement typically gets specified by the manufacturer of the log splitter. Failure to use the right hydraulic filter could end up damaging the log splitter. When in doubt, you should note the hydraulic system’s model number and then reach out to the manufacturer or any hydraulic service professional for clarity.
When to change the hydraulic filter on your log splitter?
In the modern era, most hydraulic filters come with indicators that notify you when it is time for a replacement. Green means that the filter is absolutely fine. However, once the color turns yellow, it will be time to change the filter. Yellow will indicate that the hydraulic filter is starting to get clogged. It will decrease the performance, so it’ll be important to change the filters when the indicator turns yellow.
If the indicator turns red, it’ll be imperative to change the hydraulic filter immediately. Bypassing is occurring, and the only remedy will be to replace the filter as soon as possible. Aside from viewing the indicator, hydraulic filters must be inspected during regular preventative maintenance, which needs to occur once every 400 hours. You should also inspect the filter and see if there is any back pressure occurring. If there is back pressure of hydraulic fluid, you should change the filter at the time.
Hydraulic oil monitoring will also help you identify if it is the right time to change the filter. If the oil contamination levels are satisfactory, the hydraulic filter is doing its job perfectly and doesn’t need to be changed. If the levels start changing, it will likely be the time to change the filter.
How to change hydraulic filter on log splitter
There are a few steps involved with changing the hydraulic filter on a log splitter –
- Start off by locking out the log splitter
- After that, affix the strap wrench or filter wrench to the bottom of the hydraulic filter
- Now, you’ll need to turn the wrench to remove the filter
- Once it is removed, you should verify that the old seal has come out completely, and then clean the filter head
- Rub the seal on your new hydraulic filter with clean oil
- Now, place the new hydraulic filter into position, spin on until the seal just touches, and complete by tightening 3/4th of a turn
- Unlock the machine and then operate
- Carefully examine to verify that a good seal has been achieved
The log splitter must be locked for safety and for preventing equipment damage. When you have removed the filter, it should not be grabbed from the middle or top. This can damage the older hydraulic filter and increase the amount of time that it takes to change the new hydraulic filter.
What type of hydraulic fluid do log splitters use?
Probably mineral hydraulic oil viscosity grade 32 for colder ambient operating temperatures, while using oil viscosity grade 46 for warmer climes. Some users even recommend synthetic for older machines, as it lubricates more efficiently.
Log splitters make use of a number of different hydraulic fluids in the operation. However, you should be using the oil recommended by the manufacturer. This way, you will be able to avoid any unnecessary damage to your log splitter.
Non-flammable
This type of fluid is considered to be non-flammable, and it comprises natural chemicals that won’t form foam. An absence of foam in the hydraulic system when in operation will mean no dirt build-up.
Flammable
It is an oil-based fluid that provides the power to the hydraulic system. It’ll help prevent corrosion while leaving sticky build-ups behind. However, a hydraulic leak with an oil-based fluid around a hot engine will be a recipe for disaster, and why most manufacturers suggest non-flammable.
Synthetic fluid
This type of fluid is essentially man-made chemical composition. These are entirely non-flammable as well. However, this type of log splitter hydraulic fluid is largely responsible for corrosion.
Changing the hydraulic fluid of your log splitter
1. Collect the hydraulic fluid
First, you’ll need to place a suitable container under the fluid reservoir for collecting the fluid. It’ll be best to put a tarp or cardboard under that as well. There’s nothing worse than oil-stained concrete and then splitting it on the ground.
2. Disconnect the suction hose
After that, disconnect the suction hose pipe from the fluid reservoir tank. Check the instruction manual that comes with your log splitter.
3. Remove the inlet filter
Remove the inlet filter carefully and then clean it.
4. Drain the hydraulic fluid
Unscrew the drain plug and allow the fluid to drain into the suitable container. A hydraulic reservoir tank comes with a capacity of three gallons, and the entire hydraulic system could sustain up to 4.7 gallons of fluid.
5. Add the hydraulic fluid
Add hydraulic fluid to your log splitter. You should place a funnel in the fill tube before adding the desired amount of the recommended hydraulic fluid to the reservoir. Use a dipstick for checking the fluid level in the log splitter. Remember not to overfill. If needed, replace the hydraulic filter and the dipstick. You can re-install the filter if necessary. Remember to tighten the drain plug and the screw of the fill tube.
6. Remove trapped air from the system
To help remove trapped air from the system, you should engage the wedge with the control handle and then move it back and forth multiple times. If needed, fill the reservoir up to the mark using a dipstick.
Things to remember before changing the hydraulic fluid
1. Remember to fill the reservoir
A great deal of fluid gets drawn into the cylinder and hoses. You should always remember that you fill the reservoir. The hydraulic pump needs to have a filled reservoir. An empty hydraulic pump can sometimes lead to damage. This can break the warranty condition.
2. Avoid overfilling oil
Never overfill hydraulic oil or motor oil. These fluids could potentially overflow because of the heat generated by the system, as per the law of fluid expansion. This is how the fluid mechanism essentially works. Hence, you should never operate the log splitter without a proper amount of fluid level.
3. Tighten the dipstick
When you’re checking the fluid level, you should remember to tighten the dipstick properly to prevent air leakage.
4. Dispose of any used oil
Make sure that you dispose of any engine oils or hydraulic oils at appropriate facilities.
5. Never contaminate the fluid
Avoid contaminating the fluid, as contamination could lead to engine corrosion or hydraulic system damage. Clean fluid is essentially the entire point of maintenance.
Conclusion
Thank you for reading. Hopefully, now you know a lot more about hydraulic filters on log splitters, how to change a hydraulic filter on a log splitter, what kind of hydraulic fluid should your log splitter use, things to know before changing the hydraulic filter on a log splitter, and more. Changing the hydraulic filter on your log splitter is all about locking the splitter, affixing a strap wrench or filter wrench to the bottom of the hydraulic filter, turning the wrench to remove the filter, rubbing the seal on the new filter, placing the new filter into position, and tightening the filter.
If you’re changing the hydraulic filter on your log splitter, make sure that you’re choosing the right type of hydraulic filter. The replacement will typically be specified by the manufacturer of the log splitter, and using the wrong type of filter could damage the log splitter.
