MTD 550 Series User Manual (English)

Questions and Answers:

H
Heather LongSep 5, 2025
Why MTD Log Splitter engine fails to start?
- M
  Madison MillerSep 5, 2025
  If the engine on your MTD Log Splitter fails to start, there are several potential causes: * The spark plug wire may be disconnected. Ensure it is securely connected to the spark plug. * The fuel tank may be empty or contain stale fuel. Refill it with clean, fresh gasoline. * The choke may not be in the correct position. Move it to the CHOKE position. * The spark plug could be faulty. Try cleaning, adjusting the gap, or replacing it. * The fuel line might be blocked. Clean the fuel line. * The throttle control lever may not be in the correct starting position. Move the throttle lever to the FAST position.
H
Heather MontoyaAug 25, 2025
Why drivebelt slips on MTD Edger?
- J
  Jonathan BlackAug 25, 2025
  A drivebelt on your MTD Edger might slip because the belt is worn or stretched. Replace the drive belt to resolve this issue.
C
Cameron PowellAug 25, 2025
How to fix occasional skips at high speed on my MTD Lawn Mower?
- R
  Randy LambAug 26, 2025
  If your MTD Lawn Mower occasionally skips or hesitates at high speed, the spark plug gap may be too close. Adjust the gap, referring to the Engine Operator’s Manual for the correct gap specifications.
C
Christopher HaynesAug 26, 2025
What to do if the drive-belt slips on my MTD Lawn Mower?
- M
  Mr. Francisco Spencer DVMAug 27, 2025
  If the drive-belt slips on your MTD Lawn Mower, it is likely worn or stretched and needs to be replaced.
C
curtis69Aug 27, 2025
Why my MTD Lawn Mower engine runs erratic?
- S
  Steven RoseAug 27, 2025
  If your MTD Lawn Mower engine runs erratically, start by checking the spark plug wire to ensure it's connected and tight. Stale fuel can also cause this issue, so drain the old gasoline and refill the tank with fresh fuel. Additionally, a plugged vent in the gas cap could be the problem; clear it of any debris. Water or dirt in the fuel system can also lead to erratic running, so drain the fuel tank and refill with fresh fuel. For a dirty air cleaner, refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual.
M
mkingAug 28, 2025
Why my MTD Lawn Mower engine overheats?
- J
  Jamie RiggsAug 28, 2025
  If your MTD Lawn Mower engine overheats, first check the engine oil level and fill the crankcase with the proper oil if it's low. Ensure that the air flow around the engine isn't restricted by cleaning the area around and on top of the engine. For a dirty air cleaner, refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual.
J
Jacqueline LoveSep 9, 2025
Why MTD Log Splitter cylinder rod will not move?
- S
  Stephanie CastanedaSep 9, 2025
  If the cylinder rod on your MTD Log Splitter won't move, it might be due to several reasons: * Shipping plugs left in hydraulic hoses. Disconnect hydraulic hoses, remove shipping plugs, reconnect hoses. * Loose shaft coupling. Correct engine/pump alignment as necessary. * Hydraulic lines blocked. Flush and clean hydraulic system. * Incorrect oil level. Check oil level. * Blocked directional valve. Flush and clean hydraulic system.
B
Brandon OsborneSep 6, 2025
What to do if MTD Log Splitter engine runs erratic?
- J
  Justin HowardSep 6, 2025
  If the engine of your MTD Log Splitter runs erratically, consider these potential causes: * The log splitter might be running with the choke applied. Move the choke lever to the OFF position. * The spark plug wire may be loose. Connect and tighten the spark plug wire. * The fuel line could be blocked, or the fuel may be stale. Clean the fuel line and refill the tank with clean, fresh gasoline. * There might be water or dirt in the fuel system. Drain the fuel tank and refill with fresh fuel. * The air cleaner could be dirty. Clean or replace the air cleaner.
L
lorimcbrideSep 4, 2025
What causes excessive vibration in MTD Edger?
- U
  umcdanielSep 4, 2025
  Excessive vibration in your MTD Edger can be caused by: * A bent or damaged edger blade; replace the edger blade. * A bent or damaged blade spindle.
M
Maria MartinezSep 1, 2025
What to do if MTD Edger engine runs erratic?
- J
  John AllenSep 2, 2025
  If your MTD Edger engine is running erratically, consider the following: * Check the spark plug wire and connect and tighten if loose. * Drain any stale fuel from the gasoline tank and refill with fresh fuel. * Ensure the vent in the gas cap isn't plugged; clear any debris. * Drain the fuel tank and refill with fresh fuel if there's water or dirt in the fuel system.

MTD 550 Series Specifications

General

Brand	MTD
Model	550 Series
Category	Log Splitter
Language	English

Summary

To The Owner

Thank You

Expresses gratitude for purchasing the log splitter and highlights its engineering.

Record Product Information

Instructions to record model and serial numbers for support.

Customer Support

Provides contact information for support via web, phone, and mail.

Important Safe Operation Practices

Safety Warnings and Precautions

Covers general warnings, California Proposition 65, and specific dangers of the machine.

Operator Training and Responsibilities

Details essential training, age limits, supervision, and safe operating practices.

Preparation

Personal Protective Equipment

Mandates safety shoes, glasses, and avoiding loose clothing.

Machine Setup and Log Prep

Covers leveling, wheel blocking, locking beam, operator zone, and log preparation.

Safe Handling of Gasoline

Gasoline Safety Precautions

Details safe practices for refueling, storage, and handling of gasoline.

Operation

Pre-Operation Checks and Operator Positioning

Emphasizes safety checks, operator zones, and positioning for operation.

Log Loading and Splitting Procedure

Guides on how to load logs, handle controls, and split wood safely.

Maintenance and Storage

Cleaning and Component Checks

Outlines cleaning procedures, checking hoses, fittings, bolts, and safety guards.

Parts Replacement and Alterations

Covers replacing worn parts, warnings against alterations, and useful life.

Spark Arrestor

Spark Arrestor Requirements

Discusses the need for and maintenance of a spark arrestor for engines.

Safety Symbols

Symbol Descriptions

Explains the meaning of various safety symbols used in the manual.

Operator Responsibility

Reinforces the user's responsibility to restrict use to trained individuals.

Assembly & Set-Up

Contents of Carton

Lists the items included in the product packaging.

Attaching the Jack Stand

Provides step-by-step instructions for attaching the jack stand.

Attaching the Tongue

Details how to attach the tongue assembly to the tank bracket.

Assembly & Set-Up

Connecting Cylinder to Beam

Guides on connecting the hydraulic cylinder to the beam assembly.

Set-Up

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

Instructs on filling the engine with gasoline and oil, with safety warnings.

Log Splitter Preparation

Covers lubricating the beam, checking hydraulic fluid levels, and tire pressure.

Hydraulic Fluid Specifications

Specifies approved hydraulic fluids and the importance of maintaining fluid levels.

Controls and Features

Beam Locks and Control Handle

Explains beam locks and the three positions of the control handle.

Log Dislodger, Wedge, and Tongue

Describes the function of the dislodger, wedge, and towing tongue.

Operation

Engine Start and Stop Procedures

Provides instructions for starting and stopping the engine safely.

Log Splitter Operation and Beam Locking

Details positioning the beam and operating the splitter with beam lock instructions.

Operation

Horizontal Beam Lock and Splitting Procedure

Explains horizontal beam lock and the process of splitting wood safely.

Transporting the Log Splitter

Pre-Transport Steps

Covers steps like lowering the beam and removing the jack stand before towing.

Operation

Jack Stand, Hitch, and Safety Chains

Guides on adjusting the jack stand and connecting the hitch and safety chains.

Operating Tips

Recommended Practices

Lists recommended practices for operation and maintenance.

Practices to Avoid

Lists actions to avoid during operation and maintenance.

Maintenance & Adjustments

General Maintenance Precautions

Safety warnings before performing maintenance or adjustments.

Engine and Fluid Maintenance

Covers engine maintenance reference, tire pressure, and hydraulic fluid/filter.

Wedge Lubrication and Hose Checks

Details lubrication points for the beam/wedge and checking hose clamps.

Adjustments

Beam and Wedge Adjustments

Explains how to adjust the beam and wedge assembly for wear.

Gib Adjustment

Describes how to adjust or replace gibs for wear.

Off-Season Storage

Storage Preparation Steps

Provides steps for preparing the log splitter for long-term storage.

Service

Flexible Pump Coupler Service

Details the function, maintenance, and replacement of the flexible pump coupler.

MTD 550 Series User Manual

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers:

MTD 550 Series Specifications

Summary

To The Owner

Thank You

Record Product Information

Customer Support

Important Safe Operation Practices

Safety Warnings and Precautions

Operator Training and Responsibilities

Preparation

Personal Protective Equipment

Machine Setup and Log Prep

Safe Handling of Gasoline

Gasoline Safety Precautions

Operation

Pre-Operation Checks and Operator Positioning

Log Loading and Splitting Procedure

Maintenance and Storage

Cleaning and Component Checks

Parts Replacement and Alterations

Spark Arrestor

Spark Arrestor Requirements

Safety Symbols

Symbol Descriptions

Operator Responsibility

Assembly & Set-Up

Contents of Carton

Attaching the Jack Stand

Attaching the Tongue

Assembly & Set-Up

Connecting Cylinder to Beam

Set-Up

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

Log Splitter Preparation

Hydraulic Fluid Specifications

Controls and Features

Beam Locks and Control Handle

Log Dislodger, Wedge, and Tongue

Operation

Engine Start and Stop Procedures

Log Splitter Operation and Beam Locking

Operation

Horizontal Beam Lock and Splitting Procedure

Transporting the Log Splitter

Pre-Transport Steps

Operation

Jack Stand, Hitch, and Safety Chains

Operating Tips

Recommended Practices

Practices to Avoid

Maintenance & Adjustments

General Maintenance Precautions

Engine and Fluid Maintenance

Wedge Lubrication and Hose Checks

Adjustments

Beam and Wedge Adjustments

Gib Adjustment

Off-Season Storage

Storage Preparation Steps

Service

Flexible Pump Coupler Service

Troubleshooting

Engine Starting and Running Issues

Cylinder Movement Problems

Troubleshooting

Cylinder Speed and Leaking Issues

Splitting and Engine Stalling Problems

Pump Shaft Seal Leaks

Illustrated Parts List

Component Identification

MANUFACTURER'S LIMITED WARRANTY

Warranty Terms and Service

Legal and Purchaser Requirements