Multiquip / Mikasa MVC88VGHW Compactor, Forward Plate - 19.6" x 22", Honda 5.5 HP NLA
Operating Information
For the complete owner's manual, click the grey "Downloads" tab.
For the complete engine owner's manual for the MVC-88, click here: Honda GX160 Owner's Manual.
For a guide to soil compaction, click the grey "Downloads" tab.
- Make sure to follow all safety rules before operating compactor. Keep work area clear of debris and other objects that could cause damage to the compactor or bodily injury.
- Once the engine has started, move the engine throttle lever quickly to the fast position.
- With the throttle lever in the fast position, the engine speed should be around 2,300 RPM, therefore engaging the centrifugal clutch.
- NOTE - Always move the throttle lever quickly without hesitation, because increasing the engine speed slowly causes the clutch to slip.
- Firmly gasp the compactor's handle bar with both hands , the compactor will begin moving forward.
- 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.
- 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.
Figure 1. Plate Compactor Controls
Figures 1 and 2 shows the location of the controls, indicators and general maintenance parts. The function of each control is described below: Water Tank Cap – Remove this cap to add water to the water tank. - Water Tank Cap (VGHW Only) - Remove this cap to add water to the water tank.
- Fuel Tank Cap – Remove this cap to add fuel.
- Lifting Bale – When lifting of the compactor is required either by forklift, crane etc., tie rope or chain around this lifting point.
- Handle Bar – When operating the compactor use this handle bar to manuever the compactor.
- Gasoline Engine – This plate compactor uses a HONDA GX160K1QX2 engine. Refer to the HONDA owners manual for engine information and related topics.
- Belt Cover – Remove this cover to gain acess to the Vbelts. NEVER run the compactor without the V-belt cover. If the V-belt cover is not installed, the possibility exist that your hand may get caught between the V-belt and clutch, thus causing serious injury and bodily harm.
- Vibrating Plate – A flat, open plate made of durable cast iron construction used in the compacting of soil.
- Vibration Case – Encloses the eccentric, gears and counter weights.
- Water Tube (Sprinkler) – Supplies water to the soil via a splash plate.
- Water Shut-Off Valve – Turn this valve downward to let water flow from the water tank to the water tube.
- Water Tank – Holds 13.7 quarts of water, removable no tools required.
Figure 2 - Engine Controls & Components
- Fuel Filler Cap - Remove this cap to add unleaded gasoline to the fuel tank. Make sure cap is tighten securly. DO NOT overfill.
- Throttle Lever – Used to adjust engine speed (fast-slow). Recoil Starter (pull rope) – Type of engine starting method. Alternate type would be electric start (ignition key).
- Engine ON/OFF Switch - ON position permits engine starting, OFF position stops engine operations
- Recoil Starter (pull rope) - Manual-starting method. Pull the starter grip until resistance is felt, then pull briskly and smoothly.
- Fuel Valve Lever – OPEN to let fuel flow, CLOSE to stop the flow of fuel.
- Choke Lever – Used in the starting of a cold engine, or in cold weather conditions. The choke enriches the fuel mixture.
- Air Cleaner – Prevents dirt and other debris from entering the fuel system. Remove wing-nut on top of air filter cannister to gain access to filter element.
- Spark Plug – Provides spark to the ignition system. Set spark plug gap to 0.6 - 0.7 mm (0.028 - 0.031 inch) Clean spark plug once a week.
- Muffler – Used to reduce noise and emissions.
- Fuel Tank – Holds 3.6 liters (approximately 1 gallon) of unleaded gasoline.
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