Maintenance
Blade Tensioner
Maintenance
30S97doc041910
5-16
5
See Figure 5-8.
Add an Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) such as Dexron III ATF to
the hydraulic blade tensioner as needed. To add enough fluid to completely fill the ten-
sioner block:
1.
Unscrew the tensioner handle to reveal 2” of thread. Remove the sawmill blade housing
covers and blade.
2.
Push the idle-side blade wheel/shaft housing all the way in to collapse the rear tensioner
piston. Pull the idle-side blade wheel/shaft housing away from the tensioner.
3.
There are two fill plugs provided on the tensioner. For easiest access, it is recommended
to use the hole behind the gauge to refill the tensioner. Clean any dirt and debris from the
plug area. Use a 7/16” wrench to remove the plug, making sure to keep the plug o-ring
with the plug.
4.
Use a small funnel, cup or squirt can to add hydraulic fluid through the fill plug hole until a
puddle of fluid forms and is maintained over the fill hole. As you maintain the puddle,
manually extend the rear piston. Be careful not to draw air into the tensioner. Use pliers to
pull the rear piston if necessary, but only grip the outer 1/4” of the rear piston. Gripping or
marring the surface beyond this point could result in seal damage and prevent the system
from holding tension. Continue pulling out the piston as far as it will travel.
5.
Reinsert the plug and thread 2-3 turns. Turn the tension handle clockwise until 6 or 7
threads show beyond the front piston block. Tighten the plug all the way.
6.
Push the idle-side blade wheel/shaft housing all the way in to collapse the rear tensioner
piston. If the piston does not extend at least 2” from the end of the tensioner block, repeat
Steps 1-5.
7.
Reinstall the blade and blade housing covers. If you have trouble installing a blade, it may
be necessary to remove some fluid. Open the plug one turn and turn the tension handle in
until some fluid is pushed out. Tighten the plug and retry.
FIG. 5-8
Add fluid as you
pull rear piston out
3H1032-1
