A quick cleanup takes five minutes and makes a huge difference. Brush off the beam, wedge, engine, and hydraulic tank. If it has to stay outside . Proper log splitter maintenance is the key to years of reliable service. I've seen machines that are 15 years old still split like new—and others that barely made it through two. This video will show you how to perform basic maintenance on your log splitter. Learn more Professor Jiang: We Are Already in World War 3, I Am 80%. This maintenance involves a series of critical steps: starting with a thorough inspection and cleaning to remove any debris or buildup, followed by checking and replacing the hydraulic fluid to ensure smooth operation of the splitting mechanism. Neglecting basic upkeep can lead to breakdowns, reduced performance, or costly.