page 20 — MVC88VTH/VTHW pLaTe COMpaCTOR • OpeRaTiOn and paRTs ManuaL — ReV. #2 (12/09/13)
OpERATION

OpeRaTiOn

1. Once the engine has started, move the engine throttle
lever quickly to the run position.
2. With the throttle lever in the run position, the engine
speed should be around 2,300 RPM, therefore
engaging the centrifugal clutch.
3. Firmly gasp the compactor's handle bar with both
hands, the compactor will begin moving forward.
4. Slowly walk behind the compactor and be on the
lookout for any large objects or foreign matter that
might cause damage to the compactor or bodily injury.
5. Compactor traveling speed may drop on soils which
contain clay, however there may be cases where
traveling speed drops because the compaction plate
does not leave the ground surface easily due to the
composition of the soil. To rectify this problem do the
following:
Check the bottom plate to see if clay or equivalent
material has been lodge in the plate mechanism. If so,
wash with water and remove.
Remember the compactor does not work as efficiently
on clay or soils that have a high moisture content level.
If the soil has a high moisture level, dry soil to appropriate
moisture content level or carry out compaction twice.
CauTiOn
aLWays follow all safety rules referenced
in the safety section of this manual before
operating compactor. Keep work area
clear of debris and other objects that
could cause damage to the compactor or
bodily injury.
NOTICE
aLWays move the throttle lever quickly without
hesitation, because increasing the engine speed slowly
causes the clutch to slip.
NOTICE
neVeR stop the engine suddenly while working at
high speeds.

sTOpping THe engine

normal shutdown

1. Move the throttle lever to the idle position (Figure 20)
and run the engine for three minutes at low speed.
Figure 20. Throttle Lever (Idle)
2. Place the engine ON/OFF switch (Figure 21) in the
"OFF" position.
Figure 21. Engine ON/OFF Switch (OFF Position)
3. Place the fuel shut-off lever (Figure 22) in the "OFF"
position.
Figure 22. Fuel Valve Lever (OFF)
4. If applicable place water valve (Figure 18) in the OFF
position.

emergency shutdown

1. Move the throttle lever quickly to the idLe position, and
place the engine ON/OFF switch in the OFF position.
ENGINE SWITCH
ON
OFF