Maintaining your firewood processor ensures longevity and efficient production

Aftermarket Specialist Arttu Kohtamäki emphasizes the importance of annual maintenance and routine condition checks for Japa machines.

“Japa firewood processors are designed for easy maintenance – all maintenance points are conveniently accessible across our machine models. Regular maintenance reduces wear on components, lowering operating costs and extending the machine’s lifespan to decades. This maintainability is crucial for ensuring the machine remains reliable and cost-efficient over time.”

Kohtamäki recommends the following actions for annual maintenance, some of which should be performed more frequently during regular use:

1. Keeping the machine clean
2. Replacing hydraulic oil and filters
3. Bleeding the chain lubrication pump
4. Maintaining the saw bar and chain
5. Adjusting the infeed conveyor alignment and tension

1. Keeping the machine clean

Kohtamäki highlights that cleaning the machine is an essential daily maintenance task to prevent disruptions during work.

“After each use, it’s a good idea to clean around the splitting wedge, including the slots, debris grate, and conveyor cleaning hatch. Monthly cleaning of the internal parts is recommended to prevent blockages, such as debris accumulating under the pusher.”

In cold conditions, cleaning after every use becomes even more critical to prevent chips and sawdust from freezing onto the machine, ensuring the next session can start without heavy cleaning tools.

2. Replacing hydraulic oil and filters

Dirty hydraulic oil can lead to premature wear on components, leaks in hoses and connections, and overheating. It can also cause pressure drops, potentially resulting in malfunctions of hydraulic parts. Machines exposed to outdoor temperature fluctuations may accumulate water in the oil due to condensation or leaks, degrading hydraulic performance and risking machine damage.

“Hydraulic oil and filters in Japa firewood processors should be checked and replaced as necessary, especially when the machine is being used after a long idle period. Clean oil and filters ensure the hydraulic components operate reliably and maintain optimal oil temperature,” says Kohtamäki.

Watch the video: Adding chain lubricant oil to Japa firewood processor

3. Bleeding the chain lubrication pump

A properly functioning chain lubrication pump is essential for the condition and longevity of the chain and bar. Insufficient lubrication causes the chain to stretch, requiring frequent tightening, and may eventually cause it to snap. Kohtamäki stresses the importance of monitoring the chain oil flow.

“When air enters the oil lines, the oil does not flow evenly to the chain, reducing lubrication and increasing wear on the chain and bar, which can lead to premature damage. Regular bleeding of the hydraulic oil pump is an essential maintenance task: it removes air from the lines, restores consistent oil flow, and protects the chain and bar while ensuring smooth machine operation.”

4. Maintaining the saw bar and chain

The condition of the saw bar and chain is critical for the efficient operation of the firewood processor. A dull chain reduces cutting speed, increases wear and overheating on the bar, and strains the sprockets and guides. For professional use, the chain should often be replaced with a new or sharpened one daily.

Sharpening can be done manually with a round file or with an electric sharpener, with precision improved by using filing guides and supports. The lifespan of the bar can be extended by flipping it regularly, typically after every third chain maintenance session. The bar should also be checked for bends or cracks.

According to Kohtamäki, careful maintenance ensures efficient operation and a long lifespan for the machine.

“Regular chain replacement, sharpening, and bar inspection and flipping reduce wear and ensure the machine performs at its best.”

5. Adjusting the infeed conveyor alignment and tension

The infeed conveyor belt runs between two rollers, and its alignment is a critical part of ensuring the firewood processor operates reliably. While the machine is running, the belt’s movement can be visually checked to ensure it is running straight.

“A well-aligned belt stays on track, preventing premature edge wear and stretching. A misaligned belt, on the other hand, may begin to run askew, increasing the risk of stretching and impairing log feeding into the cutting area – this can slow down work and lead to premature maintenance needs,” Kohtamäki explains.

The belt tension is also an important adjustment point. Optimal tension is achieved when the belt lifts about 5 cm off the surface. This ensures smooth feeding without excessive friction or stretching. Adjustments can be made using the tension screws located at the front and rear rollers of the conveyor. Proper alignment and tension help ensure smooth feeding and extend the lifespan of both the belt and the machine.

Get in touch with your nearest Japa dealer whenever you need spare parts for maintenance. By servicing your firewood processor regularly, you ensure it stays in optimal working condition and that maintenance runs smoothly.