Firewood preparation weather is at its best in March and April, so soon firewood processors will be running hot across the country. To ensure the firewood processor's performance lasts for decades, it is always a good idea to inspect and service the machine before putting it into use.
In log splitter maintenance, it is important to prevent faults in advance. A good practice is to go through the machine thoroughly every time it is taken out of storage and put back into use.
With the help of the following four-point checklist, you will go a long way and ensure that your machine remains in good condition for decades:
- Inspect the machine generally. Check that the machine is in good condition and clean it if necessary.
- Grease the machine's nipples if you haven't greased them before putting the machine into storage.
- Check the condition of the chain, guide bar, and saw blade carefully.
- Check the condition of the hydraulic oil and filters, and replace them if necessary.
Cleaning the log splitter makes the condition inspection easier
The general condition of the firewood processor can be checked visually. This is a quick way to ensure that the machine has not suffered any damage during storage or transport. Cleaning the machine makes the condition check easier, as, for example, the condition of the blade is easier to check when it is clean. Starting work is also more pleasant with a clean machine.
It is recommended that the grease nipples of the firewood processor are lubricated before the machine is put into storage. If this lubrication was forgotten at that time, it should definitely be done at the latest when the machine is put back into use. It is also a good idea to clean the nipples before putting the machine into storage.
The locations of the grease nipples of Hakki Pilke firewood processors with pictures and exact lubrication amounts can be found in the user manual.
Inspection of hydraulic oil and filter
In hydraulics, the condition of the oil is a crucial factor for service life and reliable functionality.
With clean oil and a filter, the hydraulic components operate smoothly and the oil temperature remains at a moderate level. The oil and filters must be checked whenever the firewood processor is taken out of storage for use. They should also be checked whenever the machine has otherwise been idle for a long time.
In winter, problems can be caused by water in the oil, which may freeze at the bottom of the tank. If the oils look gray, water has gotten into them. In that case, the oils and the return filter must be replaced.
For Hakki Pilke firewood processors, we recommend the initial change of oils and return filters after one hundred hours of use or the first season. After this, the change must be made every other year or every 500 hours, depending on which comes first.
Lantmännen Agro's listing with it you can easily find the right oils, filters, and cutting equipment for your Hakki Pilke machine.
Maintenance of circular saw blade and saw chain
Before using the machine, also check the condition of the saw chain and guide bar, or in the case of a circular saw blade, the condition of the carbide tips and ensure that the blade tension is correct. If you notice that the blade is dull or has cracks, remove and service the blade.
It is recommended to maintain the saw chain and guide bar of the firewood processor regularly. Read the detailed instructions for maintaining the saw chain and guide bar in our previous article. How to maintain a log splitter's chainsaw chain? See also our instructional video on saw chain sharpening.
An electric sharpener is an easy and fast way to sharpen all saw chain cutters to the exact same length and filing angle. Check that the gullets are sharpened evenly and that their surface looks uniformly bright.
Check the flange for wear and grind the chain guide rails with a grinder.
The service life and functionality of a circular saw blade can best be influenced by careful storage and use. Always check the condition of the blade carefully. If you notice cracks in the blade or broken teeth, the blade must not be used; instead, it must be replaced with a new one or repaired.
A damaged blade is a major safety hazard and should never be used. Maintenance and repair of blades must always be carried out by a specialized service shop.
When installing a new blade, the cleanliness and straightness of the centering flanges must be taken into account. If the flanges need to be replaced, they should always be acquired as original parts.
Always check the circular or saw blade before starting sawing
Remember to always check the circular or saw blade before starting to saw as well. Regular maintenance of the circular blade, saw chain, and guide bar ensures that firewood production runs efficiently. At the same time, you maximize the lifespan of your firewood processor.
Using a dull blade causes several different problems: the machine heats up, the gears of the blade or chain wear out faster, and the saw slows down, which takes more time to complete the work. Remember to clean the blade of loose dirt after use, for example with compressed air or a brush.
If you find that your machine needs new parts, contact the machine manufacturer or your local dealer. Hakki Pilke firewood processors are manufactured in Haapajärvi, in the middle of Finland, ensuring fast delivery of spare parts throughout Finland.
Through the extensive Lantmännen Agro store network, you can also quickly get spare parts for your firewood processor.