OPERATION
OPERATION
CAUTION
ALWAYS follow all safety rules in the safety section of this manual before operating compactor. Keep work area clear of debris and other objects that could cause bodily injury or damage to the compactor.
1.Once the engine has started, move the engine throttle lever quickly to the operation position (Figure 20).
Operation position 
Idle position 
Handle Throttle lever
Figure 20. Throttle Lever (Operation Position)
2.With the throttle lever in the run position, the engine speed should be around 2,300 RPM, therefore engaging the centrifugal clutch.
NOTICE
ALWAYS move the throttle lever quickly without hesitation, because increasing the engine speed slowly causes the clutch to slip.
3.Using the direction control lever, move the machine backward or forward (Figure 21). When the direction control lever is pushed forward, the machine moves forward. When pulled backward, the machine moves backward.
Reverse 
Neutral
4.When the direction control lever is the neutral position, the machine vibrates staying at the same location
NOTICE
NEVER stop the engine suddenly while working at high speeds.
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 lodged 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.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
Normal Shutdown
1.Move the throttle lever to the idle position (Figure 22) and run the engine for three minutes at low speed.
Operation position 
Idle position 
Handle
Throttle lever
Forward
Direction control lever
Figure 22. Throttle Lever (Idle)
Figure 21. Direction Control Lever
MVH408GH PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION AND PARTS MANUAL — REV. #0 (03/25/14)— PAGE 21
