The 79cc Plate Compactor is a machine designed to compact ground surfaces, making them smooth by transmitting vibrations through a vibrating plate. This process is powered by a single motor housed within the vibrator case. It is particularly suitable for leveling soil, compacting sediment and sand, beaching, and finishing asphalt paving.
Function Description:
The primary function of the plate compactor is to achieve a smooth, compacted surface. It is effective for various applications, including trench compaction, earthworks, road maintenance, landscaping, brick paving, and driveway toppings. However, it's important to note its limitations: it struggles to move forward on wet, clay-rich soil and is not recommended for such conditions. Additionally, it may not effectively level ground with large stones due to insufficient compacting force. For jobs requiring deep or heavy compaction, such as compacting lower layers of ground, alternative equipment like Tamping Rammers, Vibro Compactors, or Vibration Rollers, which offer more effective compacting force, are recommended. This compactor is specifically designed for surface compaction on soil, sediment, sand, beaching, and asphalt, and its use for other applications is not advised.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Engine: Loncin 79cc gas engine
- Power: 2 HP
- Weight: 114 lbs
- Compaction Force: 2000 lb
- Vibration Frequency: 5210 vpm
- Compaction Depth: 7-3/4 in.
- Compaction Area/Hour: 2690 sq. ft
- Compacting Plate Dimensions: 17x11-3/4 in.
- Travel Speed: 50 ft/min
Usage Features:
Before each use, operators must read and understand the safety and operating instructions provided in both the engine's Owner's Manual and this compactor's manual.
Pre-Operation Checks:
- Engine Oil Level: Check the oil level using the oil gauge (FIG-1). Recommended motor oil grades vary with season temperature: SAE 30 for Spring/Summer (+120°F to +40°F), SAE 20 for Winter (+40°F to +15°F), and SAE 10W-30 for Winter (Below +15°F).
- Fuel Level: Ensure adequate fuel supply.
- Air Cleaner Condition: Inspect the air cleaner.
- External Fasteners: Verify the tightness of all external fasteners.
- Fuel Lines: Check the condition of the fuel lines.
Plate Compactor Inspection:
- Bolts, Nuts, and Belts: Check all bolts, nuts, and belts, tightening any if necessary.
- General Condition: Inspect the overall condition of the plate compactor and its components. Clean any foreign material (dirt, fragments, etc.) to prevent injury from thrown debris.
Handle Assembly:
- Loosen the knob handle on each side of the Upper Handle.
- Swing the Upper Handle until it points straight out from the Lower Handle.
- Securely tighten both knob handles (FIG-2).
Starting the Engine:
- Turn the STOP SWITCH clockwise to the "I" (ON) position (FIG-3).
- Open the fuel cock (FIG-4).
- Set the speed control lever 1/3 to 1/2 of the way towards the high speed position (FIG-5).
- Close the choke lever (FIG-6). If the engine is warm or ambient temperature is high, open the choke lever halfway or fully. If the engine is cold or ambient temperature is low, close the choke lever fully.
- Pull the starter handle slowly until resistance is felt (the "compression" point). Return the handle to its original position and pull swiftly. Do not pull the rope all the way out. After starting, allow the starter handle to return while still holding it (FIG-7).
- After starting, warm up the engine for 2 to 3 minutes, especially in cold conditions.
Operation:
- As the engine warms up, gradually move the choke lever to the OPEN position (FIG-8).
- Move the speed control lever from LOW to HIGH. The centrifugal clutch engages when the engine speed reaches approximately 2,300-2,600 RPM. Avoid operating the speed control lever slowly, as this can cause clutch slip (FIG-9, 10).
Shutting Down the Engine:
- To shut off the vibrator, turn the speed control lever from HIGH to LOW. Do not move the speed control lever slowly (FIG-11).
- Turn the stop switch to the OFF position (FIG-12).
- Close the fuel cock (FIG-13).
Transportation:
- Ensure the engine is stopped before transport.
- Securely screw on the fuel tank cap and close the fuel valve to prevent leaks.
- Fix the machine securely in a car to prevent movement or falling. For long distances or off-road travel, drain fuel from the tank.
After Each Use:
- Remove mud, dirt, and other debris from the unit.
- Clean the bottom surface of the vibrating plate.
- Check and clean the air cleaner element if necessary.
- Check all nuts, bolts, and screws for tightness and retighten as needed.
Maintenance Features:
Every 8 hours:
- Check throttle cable assembly bolts for loosening.
Every 50 hours:
- Remove spark plug, clean, and adjust the gap to 0.6-0.7mm (0.02-0.03 in.).
- Clean the urethane foam as described in the manual.
Every 100 hours:
Every 200 hours:
- V-belt (clutch) check.
- Replace spark plug if necessary.
Every 300 hours:
- Vibrator oil replacement.
Vibrator Oil Check:
- Place the plate compactor horizontally on a flat, level surface.
- Remove the plug (vibrator oil gauge) to check the oil level. The oil level should reach the plug. If oil is needed, use SAE motor oil as recommended in the engine oil table (FIG-1).
- To change the vibrator oil, remove the drain plug and tip the compactor to drain the oil. Draining is easier when the oil is hot.
Troubleshooting:
The manual provides a troubleshooting guide for common issues:
- Motor will not start: Check ON/OFF switch, fuel supply, spark plug ignition lead, and carburetor jet/bowl cleanliness.
- Motor stops: Check fuel supply, fuel cock position, and air filter condition.
- Petrol Motor lacks power: Check air filter and spark plug condition.
- Insufficient vibration: Check for slipping or missing V-belt and ensure motor governed speed is 3,500 r/min.
- Machine is not moving freely: Check for material buildup on the underside of the plate.
Major Components:
The manual includes a detailed diagram and list of major components (items 1-36) and vibrator assembly parts (items 37-56), along with their descriptions and quantities, to aid in maintenance and repair.