How Do You Clean a Wood Chipper? Tips for Proper Maintenance

If you’ve got a wood chipper, keeping it clean is undoubtedly the best way to make sure it’s running smoothly and safely. Whether you use your wood chippers for work or domestic use, regular maintenance will keep them performing efficiently and help you avoid costly repairs down the road. 

At BW Machinery, we know how important reliable equipment is for anyone using these machines, so we’ve compiled some top tips to help you maintain your wood chipper. From regular cleaning to engine maintenance, this guide will show you how to keep it in peak condition.

General Safety Advice

Before we get too deep into the ins and outs of the cleaning process, it’s important to establish some basic ground rules and safety guidelines. Please note that these are based on the user’s manual for the BW Machinery Greatbull Wood Chipper. However, the same rules and principles generally apply to any commercial chipper. 

1. These machines must not be used by children, as they lack experience and knowledge. Put simply, do not allow children to handle or operate your wood chipper.
2. Do not allow people who do not understand these instructions to use this machine.
3. A wood chipper’s cutting tools and components are very sharp, so be very careful.
4. Always place the machine on a flat surface and make sure it’s stable before starting it. 
5. Never lift or transport the chipper/shredder while the engine is running. Always turn off the engine when transporting the machine between different working areas.
6. During the shredding process, the user must ensure that nobody is injured by the material expelled from the machine.
7. Create a work area with a width of 3 meters and a length of 10 metres in the direction where the residues are expelled. 
8. Carry out periodic inspections, cleaning, and maintenance.

The GREATBULL GBK130 Chipper – Briggs & Stratton 13.5hp Engine (Self Feeding) – For sale in-store and online!

Cleaning Your Wood Chipper: A Step-by-Step Process

While certain wood chippers will have more specific needs and requirements, the sections below include some general advice and guidelines to follow. Otherwise, it’s always a good idea to check the user manual or reach out to a professional for assistance. 

Step 1: Turn Off the Machine

This may seem like an obvious step, but it is no less important to highlight. When we say ‘turn off the machine’, this means that all moving parts must come to a complete stop. If you’re planning to move the machine somewhere else to conduct cleaning, make sure that you disconnect the spark plug wire, empty the chutes, and unclog inlets/outlets.

Think of it this way–if you’re inspecting an issue with your car’s engine, the logical step is to turn off the ignition. The same principle applies here, and might even be more important given the potential safety hazards that come with operating a wood chipper!

Step 2: Conduct a Visual Inspection 

Before and after every use of the wood chipper, it is recommended that the following inspection process takes place. This is generally a quick and easy process designed to keep you safe and maintain the machine’s overall performance. 

Here are five inspection tips:

1. Check the chutes and guards for cracks, holes and loose bolts. 
2. Check the frame and base of the machine for cracks or damages. 
3. Check all the bolts and screws to ensure tightness. 
4. Wear gloves, and check the blades are not cracked or loose. 
5. Check the engine oil level using a dipstick.

Step 3: Start Cleaning

It is highly recommended that the machine is cleaned after every use. Once the machine has been turned off, the engine has fully cooled off, and the spark plug has been disconnected, it is now safe to begin the cleaning process. 

Begin by removing the outer layer of dust on the machine’s exterior. This can be achieved with a dry cloth or a vacuum (the choice is yours). You must not use water, either as a means of cleaning or by pouring it over the surface. After the dust is dealt with, remove any chips or debris from both the hopper and the discharge chute.

This next point is very important–the longer you put off the cleaning process, the harder it ultimately becomes. Neglecting the machine may also lead to a drop in performance over time.

Step 4: Engine Maintenance

A wood chipper is nothing without a well-functioning engine. Whether the chipper is powered by Briggs & Startton, Honda, or another manufacturer, there are various steps you can take to keep the engine humming.

Here are some general steps that can be taken. Please check the user manual of your specific model for detailed information. 

Spark Plug

• Check or replace every 100 hours of use.
• Ensure deposits are brown, clean with a brass wire.
• Check and adjust the gap (0.7-0.8mm).

Engine Oil Replacement

• Replace oil every 50 hours (first change at 20 hours).
• Warm engine drain oil, and add fresh oil, checking the level with the dipstick. Refer to the engine manual for the right amount of oil needed. 

Air Filter

• Clean every 50 hours or monthly, whichever comes first.
• Inspect for damage, clean with a water-based degreaser, and let it dry.

Fuel Filter

• Clean every 100 hours or every 3 months.
• Use a water-based degreaser for cleaning.

What Makes Cleaning and Maintenance so Important?

1. Extending the Life of Your Equipment

Whether you’re using it for residential or commercial purposes, proper maintenance prevents wear and tear on the components of your chipper, all the way from the blades to the engine. By keeping everything in good condition, your machine will last longer, saving you money in the long run.

2. Avoid Costly Repairs

Neglecting maintenance can lead to major issues that are often expensive to fix. Small problems, like a loose belt or dull blade, can escalate into larger, more costly repairs. A little time spent on regular upkeep can prevent these bigger problems from arising.

3. Improve Safety

A well-maintained wood chipper is safer to operate. Loose bolts, clogged chutes, or malfunctioning safety devices can all pose serious risks. By following maintenance protocols, you will reduce the likelihood of accidents and keep all safety measures working as they should.

4. Maintain Peak Performance

Regular maintenance keeps your wood chipper running at its best. Clean filters, sharp blades, and well-lubricated parts allow the machine to perform efficiently, reducing stress on the engine and other components. This not only helps you finish tasks faster but also makes the job easier.

5. Reduce Downtime

The last thing you want is your chipper breaking down. Regular checks and maintenance help catch issues before they become serious, keeping your chipper running smoothly and avoiding costly downtime.

Getting a Replacement 

Even with cleaning and maintenance, the best course of action could be investing in a brand new model—especially if the one you’re operating is many years old. At B.W Machinery, we have an example range of wood chipper models for sale, including our very own signature BWM range.

Whether you’re looking for an affordable wood chipper in Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane or Perth, we offer safe and secure nationwide shipping to all corners of Australia. If you happen to be based in Melbourne, we’ve got three store locations in Cheltenham, Bentleigh and Seaford–so feel free to drop by!

FAQs

1. Why is maintenance important for my wood chipper?

Proper maintenance extends the life of your wood chipper, improves safety, and prevents costly repairs. Regular upkeep ensures peak performance and reduces downtime.

2. How important is regular cleaning for my wood chipper?

Regular cleaning prevents debris buildup, which can reduce performance and damage components over time. It also keeps the machine running efficiently and safely.

3. How often should I replace the spark plug on my wood chipper?

You should check or replace the spark plug every 100 hours of use. 

4. When should I change the engine oil?

Replace the engine oil every 50 hours of use, with the first change after 20 hours. Make sure to warm up the engine before draining and add fresh oil.

5. How often should I clean the air filter?

Clean the air filter every 50 hours or once a month, whichever comes first. Inspect for damage and use a water-based degreaser before allowing it to dry completely.

6. When should I book my machine for a professional service?

Your machine should be serviced by a professional mechanic once a year. This will also help to clean up the debris and build-up inside the carburettor and extend the life of your machine.