FORWARD COMPACTOR
OWNER’S MANUAL
15
OI
– B19014
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
SETTING UP YOUR PLATE COMPACTOR
Your Bartell Plate Compactor can come fully assembled with the handle and engine
already installed. If the handle has been removed for shipping, it must be reinstalled before the
equipment can be used. Assemble the handle using the included rubber vibration dampers,
washers and bolts. Attach the throttle cable to the engine throttle and test the motion of the
engine’s throttle lever with the motion of the throttle control on the handle. Bartell equipment is
shipped without engine o
il or gasoline, so fill these fluids per your engine’s instruction manual
before proceeding. When starting an engine for the first time, or after a long period of storage,
several pulls may be required before the engine runs. NEVER attempt to add fuel or oil to the
engine while it is running. Shut down the engine and allow it to cool before opening the fuel cap
for refueling. NEVER smoke while handling gasoline. If gasoline is spilled anywhere on or
around the equipment wipe it up and allow the fumes to clear before starting the engine.
PRIOR TO OPERATION
1. Make sure that all dirt, mud, etc., are thoroughly removed from the unit prior to operation.
Special effort should be given to the bottom face of the vibrating plate and those areas
adjacent to the cooling air inlet of engine, carburetor, and air cleaner.
2. Check all bolts and screws for tightness and make sure all bolts and screws are securely
tightened. Loose bolts and screws may cause damage to the unit.
3. Check the V-belt for tightness. The normal slack should be approximately 10-15mm
(1/2”) when the belts are forcibly depressed in the middle position between the two
sheaves. If there is excess belt play, there could be a decrease in the impact force or
erratic vibration, causing machine damage.
4. Check the engine oil level and if the engine oil level is low, it should
be refilled. Use the proper motor oil as suggested by the engine
manufacturer.
5. Remove the oil plug in the exciter base and check the oil level. Make
sure the compactor is level when checking. The oil level should be up
to the oil plug. Every month or every 200 hours of operation, replace
the oil. (Fig.1)
Season
Temperature
Grade or Exciter Oil
Summer
25C or higher
SAE #30
Spring/ Fall
10C- 25C
SAE #30, #20
Winter
0C-10C
SAE#10
IMPORTANT:
When changing the oil, the old oil can be drained by tipping the unit.
The oil will drain easily while it is hot. A regular grade gasoline should be used in the engine.
When filling the fuel tank, make sure the fuel filter is used.
Figure 1
