WEN 56035 Plate Compactor - Manual (Page 17)

13
USING THE PLATE COMPACTOR
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 soil is so dry as to create dust clouds while operating plate, 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. Two passes are usually sufficient 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 surface of stones. A special polyurethane pad designed for this purpose is available as
an optional accessory.
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.
Grip the handle firmly with both hands. To avoid injury, keep hands, fingers, and feet away from
the compactor base. Grip the handle of the compactor firmly with both hands. If both hands are
holding the handle and your feet are clear of the compactor base, your hands, fingers, and feet
cannot be injured by the plate.
Adjust the handle lever between its “MIN” to “MAX” position, depending on the desired vibration
speed.
Slowly guide the plate compactor in the desired direction.
Always keep a safe distance away from the edge of ditches and avoid any actions that may cause
the plate compactor to topple over.
Always ascend slopes carefully in a direct path and back up slopes to prevent the plate compactor
from toppling back onto the operator.