How to Assemble and Operate Your Tomahawk Plate Compactor: A Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up your Tomahawk Plate Compactor is quick, easy, and designed to get you compacting with confidence. Whether you're preparing a foundation, driveway, or landscaping project, following these simple steps ensures your machine is ready to deliver professional-grade results.

You will need a few basic tools for assembly:

• Adjustable wrench
• 19 mm socket
• 5 mm Allen wrench

Having the right tools ready will make the process much smoother.

Step 1: Unbox and Verify Parts

Start by unboxing your Tomahawk Plate Compactor carefully, removing all packaging material.

Check that all required parts are included before you proceed to assembly. Missing components can delay your project, so it’s important to inspect everything first.

Step 2: Assemble the Handles

1. Remove the bolts at the base of the compactor using your 19 mm socket and wrench.
2. Align the holes at the bottom of the handles with the mounting points on the compactor’s base.
3. Insert a bolt into a vibration isolation mount, then slide it through the aligned handle and compactor holes.
4. Tighten the bolt securely to ensure stability.
5. Repeat the process on the opposite side.

This assembly method ensures the handle is solidly attached while allowing it to absorb vibrations, improving operator comfort.

Step 3: Add Oil and Fuel

Before starting your compactor for the first time, you must properly fill the oil and fuel:

• Oil Filling:
  1. Remove the oil filler cap.
  2. Fill the tank with SAE 10W-30 four-stroke motor oil up to the upper limit on the dipstick.
  3. Reinstall the oil cap securely.
• Fuel Filling:
  1. Remove the fuel cap.
  2. Fill the tank with unleaded gasoline, 86 octane or higher.
  3. Securely reinstall the fuel cap.

Keeping your machine properly lubricated and fueled ensures a smooth, reliable start and extends the life of your engine.

Step 4: Starting the Engine

1. Turn the fuel valve lever ON.
2. Set the choke lever:
   • Closed if the engine is cold.
   • Open if the engine is warm.
3. Switch the red engine switch to ON.
4. Pull the recoil starter grip gently until you feel resistance.
5. Pull briskly to start the engine.
6. As the engine warms, gradually open the choke to the open position.

Following these steps ensures an easy and quick start, getting you ready to work without unnecessary delays.

Step 5: Begin Compacting

Once the engine is running and warmed up, your Tomahawk Plate Compactor is ready for action. Move steadily over your work surface, overlapping each pass slightly to ensure even, thorough compaction. The machine's professional-grade power ensures a solid, smooth finish ideal for foundations, paving, and landscaping projects.