Plate compactor - Multiquip - MVC-88
Multiquip Forward Plate Compactor
MVC-88
These compactors are recognized as the industry standard for top performance, easy handling, low maintenance and long life.
Perfect for use on granular soils and asphalt.
Features and Benefits
• Ideal for compaction of granular soils
• Water tanks on select models for asphalt applications
• Honda and Robin engines
• Soil and asphalt models
Other features include double V-belt drive, solid vibrator mounting and oversized shock mounts
Performance Data:
- Water Tank Capacity qt.: 13.7
- Maximum Area Capacity sq. ft. pm: 7092
- Centrifugal Force lbs.: 3450
- Maximum Forward Speed Ft/MIN: 72
- Exciter Speed RPM: 5800
- Gradeability, degrees (?): 25
For the complete owner's manual, click here: MVC88 Owner's Manual
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 here: Soil Compaction Handbook
For Troubleshooting, click here: MVC-88 Troubleshooting Guide.
- 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. - 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).
- Starter Grip ? Grip this handle to start engine. See engine starting section of this manual.
- 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.
Click Here: Safety Decals for an explanation on the MVC88 Safety Decals.
RULES FOR SAFE OPERATION

CAUTION:
Failure to follow instructions in this manual may lead to serious injury or even death! This equipment is to be operated by trained and qualified personnel only!This equipment is for industrial use only.
The following safety guidelines shouldalways be used when operating the MVC-88GH Plate Compactor:
GENERAL SAFETY
- DO NOT operate or service this equipment before reading this entire manual.
- This equipment should not be operated by persons under 18 years of age.
- NEVER operate this equipment without proper protective clothing, shatterproofglasses, steel-toed boots and other protective devices required by the job.
- NEVER operate this equipment when not feeling well due to fatigue, illnessor taking medicine.
- NEVER operate this equipment under the influence or drugs or alcohol.
- NEVER use accessories or attachments, which are not recommended by Multiquipfor this equipment. Damage to the equipment and/or injury to user may result.
- Manufacture does not assume responsibility for any accident due to equipmentmodifications.
- Whenever necessary, replace nameplate, operation and safety decals whenthey become difficult read.
- NEVER touch the hot exhaust manifold, muffler or cylinder. Allow these parts to cool before servicing engine or compactor.
- High Temperatures - Allow the engine to cool before adding fuel or performing service and maintenance functions. Contact with hot components can causeserious burns.
- The engine section of this compactor requires an adequate free flow of cooling air. Never operate the compactor in any enclosed or narrow area wherefreeflow of the air is restricted. If the air flow is restricted it will causeserious damage to the compactor or engine and may cause injury to people. Remember the compactor's engine gives off DEADLY carbon monoxide gas.
- Always refuel in a well-ventilated area, away from sparks and open flames.
- Always use extreme caution when working with flammable liquids. When refueling,stop the engine and allow to cool. DO NOT smoke around or near the machine.Fire or explosion could result from fuel vapors, or if fuel is spilled on a hot engine.
- NEVER operate the compactor in an explosive atmosphere near combustible materials. An explosion or fire could result causing severe bodily harm oreven death.
- Topping-off to filler port is dangerous, as it tends to spill fuel.
- NEVER Run engine without air filter. Severe engine may occur.
- Always service air cleaner frequently to prevent carburetor malfunction.
- Always be sure the operator is familiar with proper safety precautionsand operations techniques before using compactor.
- Always store equipment properly when it is not being used. Equipmentshould be stored in a clean, dry location out of the reach of children.
- NEVER use accessories or attachments, which are not recommended by Multiquip for this equipment. Damage to the equipment and/or injury to user mayresult.
- NEVER Run engine without air cleaner. Severe engine damage may occur.
- Always read, understand, and follow procedures in Operator's Manual before attempting to operate equipment.
- Always be sure the operator is familiar with proper safety precautionsand operations techniques before using pump.
- Always store equipment properly when it is not being used.
- Equipment should be stored in a clean, dry location out of the reachof children.
- Refer to the HONDA Engine Owner's Manual for engine technical questions or information.
Loading and Unloading (Crane)
- Before lifting, make sure that machine parts (hook and vibration insulator)are not damaged and screws are not loosened or lost.
- Always make sure crane or lifting device has been properly secured tothe hook of guard frame on compactor.
- NEVER lift the machine while the engine is running. Use adequate liftingcable (wire or rope) of sufficient strength.
Use one point suspension hook and lift straight upwards. - NEVER allow any person or animal to stand underneath the machine whilelifting.
Try not to lift machine to unnecessary heights.
Transporting
- Always shutdown engine before transporting.
- Tighten fuel tank cap securely and close fuel cock to prevent fuel fromspilling.
- Drain fuel when transporting compactor over long distances or bad roads.
- Always tie-down the compactor during transportation by securing the compactor'sguard frame with rope.
Emergencies
- Always know the location of the nearest fire extinguisher and firstaid kit. Know the location of the nearest telephone. Also know the phone numbersof the nearest ambulance, doctor and firedepartment. This information willbe invaluable in the case of an emergency.
Maintenance Safety
- NEVER lubricate components or attempt service on a running machine.
- Always allow the machine a proper amount of time to cool before servicing.
- Keep the machinery in proper running condition.
- Fix damage to the machine immediately and always replace broken parts.
- Dispose of hazardous waste properly. Examples of potentially hazardouswaste are used motor oil, fuel and fuel filters.
- DO NOT use plastic containers to dispose of hazardous waste.
- DO NOT pour waste, oil or fuel directly onto the ground, down a drainor into any water source.
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