10
OPERATION
STARTING THE PLATE COMPACTOR:
1. Check the oil and fuel levels.
2. Turn the fuel valve to the “ON” position.
3. Move the choke lever to the “START” position.
4. Set the engine switch to the “ON” position.
5. Move throttle lever to “MIN” position.
6. Pull on the recoil starter handle slowly until a slight resistance is felt. Then pull quickly to start the engine. Re-
turn cord gently into the machine. Never allow the cord to snap back.
7. If engine fails to start, repeat steps 1 through 6.
NOTE: After repeated failed attempts to start the engine, please consult the troubleshooting guide before attempt-
ing again. If problems persist, please call 800-232-1195 (M-F 8-5 CST).
8. Once the engine has started, slowly return the choke lever all the way to the “OPEN” position.
9. Allow the plate compactor to run for several minutes before increasing the speed using the throttle.
10. Move throttle lever to “MAX” position to engage the plate.
This plate compactor is designed for compacting loose, granular soils, gravel, and paving stones. It is intended to
be used in confined areas and areas next to structures such as walls, curbs, and foundations.
This plate compactor is not recommended for compacting cohesive soils with heavy clay content.
Run the engine at full throttle and allow the plate to pull itself along at its normal speed. When operating on an
incline it may be necessary to assist the plate by pushing it forward slightly. When operating downhill, hold the
plate back slightly if it begins to pick up speed. Depending on the material being compacted, three or four passes
are recommended to achieve the best compaction.
While a certain amount of moisture in the soil is necessary, excessive moisture may cause soil particles to stick
together and prevent good compaction. If soil is extremely wet, allow it to dry somewhat before compacting.
If the soil is so dry that it creates dust clouds during operation, some moisture should be added to the ground
material to improve compaction. This will also reduce service to the air filter. For compacting asphalt, use a water
tank to wet the asphalt and the underside of plate. This will prevent asphalt material from sticking and reduce the
frequency of needing to service the air filter. Two passes are usually sufficient enough to ensure good compaction.
When using the plate on paving stones, attach a pad to the bottom of the plate to prevent chipping or grinding sur-
face of stones. A special polyurethane pad (Item # 56035-047) designed for this purpose is available as an optional
accessory and can be puechased at www.wenproducts.com or by calling 800-232-1195 (M-F 8-5 CST).
WARNING: DO NOT operate the plate on concrete or on extremely hard, dry, compacted surfaces.
The plate will jump rather than vibrate and could damage both the plate and the engine.
