Log Splitter Ram Maintenance/Bleeding air/topping up with oil.

MAINTENANCE 

Monthly maintenance is recommended. Lubrication is critical to jacks as they support heavy loads. Any 

restriction due to dirt, rust, etc. can cause either slow movement or can cause extremely rapid jerks, 

damaging the internal components. 

The following steps are designed to keep the jacks well lubricated: 

1. Lubricate the ram, linkages, saddle and pump mechanism with light oil and grease wheel bearings and axles. 

2. Visually inspect for cracked welds, bent, loose, missing parts or hydraulic oil links. 

3. If jack is subjected to abnormal load or shock, remove from service and have it examined by a customer service 

representative before any further use. 

4. Clean all surfaces and maintain all labels and warning notices. 

5. Check and maintain the ram oil level. 

6. Check ram at least every three months for any sign of rust or corrosion. Clean as needed and wipe with an oil 

cloth. 

7. When not in use, always leave the saddle and ram all the way down. 

8. Always store your jack in the fully lowered position. This will help protect critical areas from excessive corrosion. 

9. Do not use brake or transmission fluids or regular motor oil as this can damage the seals. Only purchase and use 

products labeled ‘Hydraulic Jack Oil’. 

OIL LEVEL CHECKS

Checking and maintaining the ram oil level is essential for maintaining your bottle jack, ensure you follow the below 

oil level checking instructions regularly:

1. Turn the release valve counterclockwise to allow ram to fully retract. Note it may be necessary to apply force to 

the saddle for lowering. 

2. With the jack in the level position, remove the oil fill plug.

3. Stand jack in a vertical position with handle socket down. The oil should be level with the bottom of the fill pole. If 

not, top up oil but do not over fill. Always fill with new, clean hydraulic jack oil. 

4. Replace fill plug.

5. Check jack operation. 

6. Purge air from system as required. 

TROUBLE SHOOTING 

For air purge trouble shooting

1. Turn the release valve counterclockwise one full turn to open.

2. Pump handle eight full strokes.

3. Turn release valve clockwise to close valve. 

4. Pump handle until the ram reaches maximum height and continue to pump several times to remove any trapped 

air in the ram. 

5. Carefully and slowly pinch oil fill plug to release any trapped air.

6. Turn release valve counter clockwise one full turn and lower ram to the lowest position. Use force if necessary.

7. Turn release valve clockwise to closed position and check for proper pump action. It may be necessary to perform 

the above more than once, to assure air is completely evacuated.