Changing hydraulic oil

[athelstan]

I've had an electric log splitter for a couple of years and it occurs to me that it may be necessary to change the hydraulic oil. My handbook tells me how to change it but there is no indication as to how often. I hope that you kind folks may be able to give me some guidance.

[sawguy21]

Normally, you should not need to change the oil unless it is contaminated. Do change the filter if it has one. If not, a proper filter installed in the return line would be a very good idea. This keeps any crud from the system from being returned to the fresh oil supply.
If the pump fails and makes metal, you would need to thoroughly flush the whole system.

[beenthere]

athelstan
Which electric splitter do you have?

[athelstan]

Beenthere - it doesn't have a makers name, just the model number LS6T - 52. I reckon it's probably Chinese.

Sawguy21 - thanks for the information, very useful. I'll just keep my eye on the colour of the oil and the level.

[Timburr]

Sawguy21 has it pretty much covered.    One thing I'd like to add, there are two types of hydraulic reservoir, the pressurised and the 'vented to atmosphere' system.   The latter allows the influx of air-born moisture when it cools down, thus contaminating the oil faster.   So, if there is any sign of 'milkyness', change it.