Instructions for maintaining a hydraulic log splitter

Step 1 - Check for leaking hydraulic fluid

If you suspect hydraulic fluid is leaking from your log splitter, you can check by passing a piece of cardboard or wood underneath the damaged area. If drops of fluid are present on the cardboard, you've located the leak. When checking for hydraulic fluid leaks, be sure to wear work gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from dangerous fluids.

Step 2 - Fill hydraulic fluid reservoir

When hydraulic fluid is low in your log splitter, the machine will operate with noticeably less power. To add the appropriate amount of hydraulic fluid, you must first remove the oil filling plug. Then, fill with hydraulic fluid until the reservoir is three-fourths full.

Step 3 - Remove air from the hydraulic cylinder

After you have added the correct amount of hydraulic fluid, you'll need to remove, or bleed, the trapped air from the cylinder. First, extend the piston rod to its maximum length and remove the oil filling plug. Then, twist the release screw in a counterclockwise motion as fast as you can. The piston rod will draw back into the cylinder which will release the trapped air. When bleeding the cylinder, stay clear of the moving piston rod and use the same safety precautions that you would while operating the machine.

Step 4 - Sharpen the blade

If you notice any dull areas, chips or nicks in the hydraulic log splitter blade, sharpen it with a coarse metal file. Use the file to smooth down the sides of the blade to reform the sharp point. Then, run a fine metal file along the edge of the blade to finish the process.

Step 5 - Clean the log splitter regularly

If your hydraulic log splitter is not self-cleaning, be sure to clean the machine regularly to remove oil, grease and debris. Make sure the machine is always turned off before you perform any cleaning. Also, remove debris around the machine as you work to prevent anything from getting lodged in the log splitter during operation.

Step 6 - Store your hydraulic log splitter in a dry area

A shed or garage is the perfect option to store your machine to avoid water damage and rust if of course the building unit stays dry throughout the year. Cover your machine with a water-proof tarp for extra protection.

Step 7 - Replace worn log splitter parts

If any log splitter parts are worn or broken, replace them before operating your machine. Compare the part and model number to the new part when you're ready to make the purchase. This will ensure you buy the right part for your specific hydraulic log splitter.


With these basic hydraulic log splitter maintenance tips, you'll be able to keep your machine in prime working order and ready to operate for years to come. To ensure proper maintenance of your log splitter, refer to your operator's manual for repair and maintenance instructions specific to your model. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance instructions will ensure that your log splitter runs safely and efficiently so you can split more wood at a faster pace. We know you depend on your wood splitter to work properly, so trust Cub Cadet to help you properly maintain, clean and operate your machine with confidence. Use our Parts Finder to locate and order any replacement parts you may need for maintenance.

If your hydraulic log splitter has aged past the point of maintenance, consider buying a self-lubricating log splitter when you replace it. A self-lubricating log splitter automatically cleans the log splitter parts after every use. There is minimal effort required to keep your machine maintained. One of the biggest advantages the self-lubricating log splitter provides is cleaning the blades routinely so they stay sharp for a longer period of time.

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