Compactor Wacker Plate Maintenance

Chiefly, there are two specific areas on a compactor wacker plate that are more likely to experience mechanical breakdowns. These are the machine’s belts and engine. Consequently, it would make economical sense to create a checklist on these two specific areas of compactor wacker plate maintenance.

Daily and Monthly Inspections

After using a compactor wacker plates, it would be advisable to wash the base plate of any accumulations of dirt and detritus in order to visually expose the base plate for any signs of damage or unseen maintenance. Care must be taken not to directly wash sensitive areas on the machine’s electrical equipment and battery as this could cause shorting and a fire, or its fuel tank and delivery system, which may cause contamination of the fuel. To prevent damage to seals on a compactor wacker plate, steam washers should not be used for cleaning.

Always check the machine’s air filter by removing it from its housing and inspecting it for excess dirt and dust. Blow out any excess dust from the inside of the filter out with compressed air at approximately 80psi. If the filter is severely contaminated or damaged then it must be replaced immediately to prevent damage to the engine. If the machine uses a petrol engine then on a monthly basis, remove and inspect the spark plug for wear and damage and replace if necessary.

Generally inspect the machine all over and tighten and nuts and bolts including those on safety apparatus that may have become loose. Also inspect fuel lines for abrasion or cutting and replace if necessary. It would also be worth checking the fuel filter for any sediment or dirt and replace as required and in any event replace it every 12 months.

Check the levels of the compactor wacker plate’s battery and top up if required. Examine the battery terminals for corrosion and clean if necessary. To prevent further corrosion of the terminals apply a liberal amount of electrical grease around them. Also check the battery securing bracket or plate and tighten it if has become loose.

Before checking the hydraulic fluid and oil levels on a compactor wacker plate, ensure it is positioned a flat surface to prevent inaccurate measurements. When carrying out measurements, always observe for contaminated hydraulic fluid and oil. Any chalky colour or other discoloration of the hydraulic fluid will require replacement of the fluid.

A compactor wacker plate is placed under harsh vibration and stresses when in operation which will, over a period of time, eventually lead to wear and tear on essential belts. If any belt on the machine appears to have excess movement in it, then it would be advisable to tension it or replace it with a genuine replacement from the manufacturer of the machine.

Make sure that eccentric oils are checked and at the correct levels before operating the machine. Too much oil in the eccentric bath will cause the compactor wacker plate to slow down adding further operating time due to the increase in required compaction. Insufficient oil will lead to the damage of the bearings.