MULTIQUIP Mikasa Series User manual

OPERATION MANUAL
THIS MANUAL MUST ACCOMPANY THE EQUIPMENT AT ALL TIMES.
SERIES
MODEL MVH408GV
REVERSIBLE PLATE COMPACTOR
(BRIGGS & STRATTON VANGUARD 400
GASOLINE ENGINE)
Revision #0 (05/01/2023)
To nd the latest revision of this publication or
associated parts manual, visit our website at:
www.multiquip.com

PAGE 2 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
PROPOSITION 65 WARNING

MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23) — PAGE 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MVH408GV Reversible
Plate Compactor
Proposition 65 Warning ........................................... 2
Safety Information ................................................ 4-8
Specications .......................................................... 9
Dimensions............................................................ 10
General Information................................................11
Components ..................................................... 12-13
Basic Engine.......................................................... 14
Inspection ........................................................... 15-6
Startup.............................................................. 17-18
Operation.......................................................... 19-20
Maintenance..................................................... 21-27
Storage.................................................................. 27
Troubleshooting (Compactor)................................ 28
Troubleshooting (Engine) ................................. 29-30
NOTICE
Equipment specications and features are subject to
change without notice.

PAGE 4 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
SAFETY INFORMATION
Do not operate or service the equipment before reading
the entire manual. Safety precautions should be followed
at all times when operating this equipment.
Failure to read and understand the safety
messages and operating instructions could
result in injury to yourself and others.
SAFETY MESSAGES
The four safety messages shown below will inform you
about potential hazards that could injure you or others. The
safety messages speci cally address the level of exposure
to the operator and are preceded by one of four words:
DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION or NOTICE.
SAFETY SYMBOLS
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
WILL result in DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
COULD result in DEATH or SERIOUS INJURY.
CAUTION
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
COULD result in MINOR or MODERATE INJURY.
NOTICE
Addresses practices not related to personal injury.
Potential hazards associated with the operation of this
equipment will be referenced with hazard symbols which
may appear throughout this manual in conjunction with
safety messages.

MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23) — PAGE 5
SAFETY INFORMATION
GENERAL SAFETY
CAUTION

NEVER operate this equipment without proper protective
clothing, shatterproof glasses, respiratory protection,
hearing protection, steel-toed boots and other protective
devices required by the job or city and state regulations.

NEVER operate this equipment when not
feeling well due to fatigue, illness or when
under medication.

NEVER operate this equipment under the in uence of
drugs or alcohol.

ALWAYS check the equipment for loosened threads or
bolts before starting.

DO NOT use the equipment for any purpose other than
its intended purposes or applications.

ALWAYS clear the work area of any debris, tools, etc.
that would constitute a hazard while the equipment is
in operation.
NOTICE

This equipment should only be operated by trained and
quali ed personnel 18 years of age and older.

Whenever necessary, replace nameplate, operation and
safety decals when they become dif cult read.

Manufacturer does not assume responsibility for any
accident due to equipment modi cations. Unauthorized
equipment modi cation will void all warranties.
NEVER
use accessories or attachments that are not
recommended by Multiquip for this equipment. Damage
to the equipment and/or injury to user may result.
ALWAYS know the location of the nearest
 re extinguisher.
ALWAYS know the location of the nearest
 rst aid kit.
ALWAYS
know the location of the nearest phone or keep
a phone on the job site. Also, know the phone numbers
of the nearest ambulance, doctor and  re department.
This information will be invaluable in the case of an
emergency.

PAGE 6 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
SAFETY INFORMATION
COMPACTOR SAFETY
DANGER

NEVER operate the equipment in an explosive
atmosphere or near combustible materials.An
explosion or  re could result causing severe
bodily harm or even death.
WARNING

NEVER disconnect any emergency or safety devices.
These devices are intended for operator safety.
Disconnection of these devices can cause severe injury,
bodily harm or even death. Disconnection of any of these
devices will void all warranties.
CAUTION

NEVER lubricate components or attempt service on a
running machine.
NOTICE

ALWAYS keep the machine in proper running condition.

Fix damage to machine and replace any broken parts
immediately.

ALWAYS store equipment properly when it is not being
used. Equipment should be stored in a clean, dry location
out of the reach of children and unauthorized personnel.
ENGINE SAFETY
DANGER

The engine fuel exhaust gases contain poisonous carbon
monoxide. This gas is colorless and odorless, and can
cause death if inhaled.

The engine of this equipment requires an adequate
free  ow of cooling air. NEVER operate this equipment
in any enclosed or narrow
area where free  ow of the
air is restricted. If the air
 ow is restricted it will cause
injury to people and property
and serious damage to the
equipment or engine.
MVH-306
MVH-306
WARNING
DO NOT
place hands or fingers inside engine
compartment when engine is running.
NEVER
operate the engine with heat shields or
guards removed.
Keep  ngers, hands hair and clothing away
from all moving parts to prevent injury.
DO NOT remove the radiator cap while the
engine is hot. High pressure boiling water will gush out
of the radiator and severely scald any persons in the
general area of the compactor.
DO NOT remove the coolant drain plug
while the engine is hot. Hot coolant will
gush out of the coolant tank and severely
scald any persons in the general area of
the compactor.
DO NOT
remove the engine oil drain plug while the
engine is hot. Hot oil will gush out of the oil tank and
severely scald any persons in the general area of the
compactor.
CAUTION
NEVER touch the hot exhaust manifold,
muf er or cylinder. Allow these parts to cool
before servicing equipment.
NOTICE
NEVER
run engine without an air  lter or with a dirty air
 lter. Severe engine damage may occur. Service air  lter
frequently to prevent engine malfunction.
NEVER tamper with the factory settings of
the engine or engine governor. Damage
to the engine or equipment can result
if operating in speed ranges above the
maximum allowable.
NEVER
tip the engine to extreme angles during lifting as
it may cause oil to gravitate into the cylinder head, making
the engine start dif cult.

MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23) — PAGE 7
SAFETY INFORMATION
FUEL SAFETY
DANGER
DO NOT add fuel to equipment if it is placed inside truck
bed with plastic liner. Possibility exists of explosion or
 re due to static electricity.
DO NOT start the engine near spilled fuel or combustible
 uids. Diesel fuel is extremely  ammable and its vapors
can cause an explosion if ignited.
ALWAYS refuel in a well-ventilated area, away from
sparks and open  ames.
ALWAYS use extreme caution when working with
fl ammable liquids.
DO NOT  ll the fuel tank while the engine is running
or hot.
DO NOT over ll tank, since spilled fuel could ignite if it
comes into contact with hot engine parts or sparks from
the ignition system.
Store fuel in appropriate containers, in well-ventilated
areas and away from sparks and  ames.
NEVER use fuel as a cleaning agent.

DO NOT smoke around or near the
equipment. Fire or explosion could result
from fuel vapors or if fuel is spilled on a
hot engine.
MVH-306
MVH-306
BATTERY SAFETY (ELECTRIC START ONLY)
DANGER
DO NOT
drop the battery. There is a possibility that the
battery will explode.
DO NOT expose the battery to open  ames,
sparks, cigarettes, etc. The battery contains
combustible gases and liquids. If these
gases and liquids come into contact with a
 ame or spark, an explosion could occur.
WARNING
ALWAYS wear safety glasses when
handling the battery to avoid eye irritation.
The battery contains acids that can cause
injury to the eyes and skin.
Use well-insulated gloves when picking up
the battery.
ALWAYS
keep the battery charged. If the battery is not
charged, combustible gas will build up.
DO NOT
charge battery if frozen. Battery can explode.
When frozen, warm the battery to at least 61°F (16°C).
ALWAYS
recharge the battery in a well-ventilated
environment to avoid the risk of a dangerous concentration
of combustible gases.
If the battery liquid (dilute sulfuric acid)
comes into contact with clothing or skin,
rinse skin or clothing immediately with
plenty of water.

If the battery liquid (dilute sulfuric acid) comes into
contact with eyes, rinse eyes immediately with plenty
of water and contact the nearest doctor or hospital to
seek medical attention.
CAUTION
ALWAYS disconnect the
NEGATIVE battery terminal
before performing service on the equipment.
ALWAYS
keep battery cables in good working condition.
Repair or replace all worn cables.

PAGE 8 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
SAFETY INFORMATION
TRANSPORTING SAFETY
CAUTION

NEVER allow any person or animal to stand underneath
the equipment while lifting.
NOTICE

Before lifting, make sure that the equipment parts (hook
and vibration insulator) are not damaged and screws are
not loose or missing.

Always make sure crane or li tng device has been
properly secured to the lifting bail (hook) of the
equipment.

ALWAYS shutdown engine before transporting.

NEVER lift the equipment while the engine is running.

Tighten fuel tank cap securely and close fuel cock to
prevent fuel from spilling.

Use adequate lifting cable (wire or rope) of suf cient
strength.

Use one point suspension hook and lift straight upwards.

DO NOT lift machine to unnecessary heights.

ALWAYS tie down equipment during transport by
securing the equipment with rope.
ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY/
DECOMMISSIONING
NOTICE
Decommissioning is a controlled process used to safely
retire a piece of equipment that is no longer serviceable.
If the equipment poses an unacceptable and unrepairable
safety risk due to wear or damage or is no longer cost
effective to maintain (beyond life-cycle reliability) and is to
be decommissioned (demolition and dismantlement),be
sure to follow rules below:

DO NOT pour waste or oil directly onto the ground, down
a drain or into any water source.

Contact your country's Department of Public
Works or recycling agency in your area and
arrange for proper disposal of any electrical
components, waste or oil associated with
this equipment.
When the life cycle of this equipment is over, remove
battery and bring to appropriate facility for lead
reclamation. Use safety precautions when handling
batteries that contain sulfuric acid.

When the life cycle of this equipment is over, it is
recommended that the trowel frame and all other metal
parts be sent to a recycling center.
Metal recycling involves the collection of metal from
discarded products and its transformation into raw
materials to use in manufacturing a new product.
Recyclers and manufacturers alike promote the process
of recycling metal. Using a metal recycling center
promotes energy cost savings.

MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23) — PAGE 9
SPECIFICATIONS
Table 1. MVH408GV Specications
Centrifugal Force 12,364 lbf (55 kN)
Vibration Frequency 4,400 vpm (73 Hz)
Maximum Traveling Speed 92 ft/min (28 m/min)
Plate Size (W x L) 19.7 x 35.4 in (500 x 900 mm)
Plate Size (W x L) with extension plates 25.6 x 35.4 in (650 x 900 mm)
Operating Weight 802 lbs. (364 kg.)
Operating Weight with extension plates 836 lbs. (379 kg.)
Table 2. Engine Specications
Engine Make BRIGGS & STRATTON
Engine Model VANGUARD 400, 25V332 0066F1
Engine Type Air-cooled, 4 stroke Gasoline Engine
Maximum Ouput 14 HP (10.4 kW) @ 3600 RPM
Fuel Tank Capacity Approx. 1.52 gallons (5.74 liters)
Oil Capacity 1.0 qt (0.95 liters)
Oil Grade API SF or higher SAE5W-30 Synthetic Oil
Starting Method Recoil Start
Table 3. Noise and Vibration Emissions
Measured Sound Power Level in dB(A) 106
Guaranteed Sound Power Level in dB(A) 107
Hand-Arm Vibration in m/s23.7
NOTES:
1. Products are tested for sound pressure level in accordance with European Directives and Standards 2000/14/EC and 2006/42/EC, 2014/30 /EU,
EN 500-1:2006 +A1:2009 , EN 500-4:2011 relating to Noise Emission in the Environment by equipment for use outdoors.
2. Products are tested for hand/arm vibration (HAV) level in accordance with European Directives 2002/44/EC and EN500-4 and ISO 5349-1:2001,
ISO 5349-2:2001.

PAGE 10 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
DIMENSIONS
Figure 1. Dimensions
G
D
E
F
Operation position
Stored position
A
B (Standard)
C (Option)
Table 4. Dimensions
REFERENCE
DESIGNATOR DESCRIPTION MEASUREMENT
APlate Width (without extension plate) 19.7 inches (500 mm)
BPlate Width (Standard: with extension plate) 25.6 inches (650 mm)
CPlate Width (Option: with wide extension plate) 31.5 inches (800 mm)
D Height (Operating Position) 40.6 inches (1030 mm)
EHeight (Stored position) 53.5 inches (1360 mm)
FPlate Length 35.4 inches (900 mm)
GLength (Operation position) 61.8 inches (1570 mm)

MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23) — PAGE 11
GENERAL INFORMATION
DEFINITION OF PLATE COMPACTOR
The Mikasa MVH408GV is a reversible plate compactor
designed for efficient compaction of sand, graveland
cohesive soils. This plate compactor is a powerful
compacting tool capable of applying a tremendous force
in consecutive high frequency vibrations to a soil surface.
Its applications include compacting for road, embankments
and reservoirs as well as backlling for gas pipelines, water
pipelines and cable installation work.
VIBRATORY PLATES
The vibratory plates of the compactor produce low-
amplitude high-frequency vibrations, designed to compact
granular soils and asphalt.
The resulting vibrations cause forward motion. The engine
and handle are vibration isolated from the vibrating plate.
FREQUENCY/SPEED
The compactor's vibrating plate produces a vibration
frequency of 4,400 VPM (vibrations per minute).
The travel speed of the compactor is approximately
92 ft/minute (28 meters/minute).
ENGINE
This plate compactor is equipped with a Briggs & Stratton
Vanguard 400, 14 HP air cooled, 4-cycle gasoline engine.
The engine drives an eccentric weight at a high speed to
develop a compaction force. Reference Table 2 for detailed
specications.
CONTROLS
Before starting the plate compactor identify and understand
the function of all the controls and components.

PAGE 12 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
COMPONENTS
Forward
Neutral Reverse
2
1
3
4
6
5
7
9
10
8
11
12
13
11
14
15
16
17
18
19
Figure 2. Plate Compactor Components

MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23) — PAGE 13
Figure 2 shows the location of the basic controls and
components of the MVH408GV Plate Compactor. The
function of each control is described below:
1. Fuel Cap — Remove this cap to add unleaded gasoline
to the fuel tank. Fill with unleaded gasoline.
2. Rubber Cover — Lift this rubber cover to gain access
to the fuel tank.
3. Handle Lock — Locks handle in stored position.
4. Breather Plug — Allow pressure to escape to the air
in the form of a gas from heat.
5. Hydraulic Pump (Oil Reservoir) — Regulates
hydraulic oil ow produced by the direction of the
control lever.
6. Hand Grip — When operating the compactor use this
hand grip to maneuver the compactor.
7. Hour/Tachometer — Displays the cumulative time
that the machine has been in use. During operation it
displays the rpm reading.
8. Lifting Bale — When lifting of the compactor is
required either by forklift, crane etc., tie rope or chain
around this lifting point.
9. Extension Plate — Provides additional area of
vibration to the vibrating plate.
10. Vibrating Plate — A at, open plate made of durable
cast iron construction used in the compacting of soil.
11. Handle Bar — When operating the compactor, this
handle is to be in the downward position. When the
compactor is to be stored, move the handle bar to the
upright position.
12. Direction Control Lever — Push the lever forward to
move compactor in a forward direction. Pull the lever
backwards to move compactor in backwards direction.
Placing the lever in the middle (midway) will cause the
compactor not to move (neutral).
13. Throttle Lever — Controls speed of the plate
compactor. Place straight vertically to start, push fully
counterclockwise for full throttle and fully clockwise to
stop plate compactor.
14. Handle Bar Height Adjuster — Adjusts the the handle
bar to the desired height by loosening the wing nut and
turning the grip clockwise to raise the handle bar and
counterclockwise to lower the handle bar.
15. Belt Cover (Lower) — Used to gain access to lower
belt.
16. Vibrator Oil Drain Plug — Used to drain vibrator oil
from the machine.
17. Vibration Case Oil Filler — Used to add oil to the
vibration case.
18. Belt Cover (Upper) — Used to gain access to upper
belt.
19. Engine — This plate compactor uses a Briggs &
Stratton Vanguard 400,14.0 HP gasoline engine. Refer
to the engine manual for more information.
COMPONENTS

PAGE 14 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
BASIC ENGINE
Figure 3. Engine Controls and Components
2
13
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
7
6
11
INITIAL SERVICING
The engine (Figure 3) must be checked for proper
lubrication and lled with fuel prior to operation. Refer to the
manufacturer's engine manual for instructions and details
of operation and servicing.
1. Air Cleaner — Prevents dirt and other debris from
entering the fuel system. Remove wing-nut on top of air
lter cover to gain access to lter element. Reference
the maintenance section in this manual for servicing.
2. Muffler — Used to reduce noise and emissions.
NEVER touch when hot!
3. Fuel Cap — Remove this cap to add unleaded gasoline
to the fuel tank. Fill with unleaded gasoline.
4. Fuel Tank — Refer to Table 2 for fuel tank capacity.
Make sure cap is tightened securely. DO NOT over
ll. For additional information refer to engine owner's
manual.
5. Dipstick/Oil Filler Cap — Remove this cap to
determine if the engine oil is low. Add oil through this
ller port as recommended in (Table 5).
6. Oil Fill Plug — Remove this plug to add oil to the
engine crankcase.
7. Oil Drain Plug — Remove this plug to remove oil from
the engine crankcase.
8. Recoil Starter (Pull Rope) — Manual-starting method.
Pull the starter grip until resistance is felt, then pull
briskly and smoothly.
9. 3-in-1 Control Lever — Used as engine switch, fuel
valve lever, and throttle lever.
10. Choke Lever — Used in the starting of a cold engine,
or in cold weather conditions. The choke enriches the
fuel mixture.
11. Spark Plug — Provides spark to the ignition system.
Set spark plug gap according to engine manufacturer's
instructions. Clean spark plug once a week.
DANGER
Add fuel to the tank only when the engine
is stopped and has had an opportunity to
cool down. In the event of a fuel spill, DO
NOT attempt to start the engine until the
fuel residue has been completely wiped up
and the area surrounding the engine is dry.

MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23) — PAGE 15
INSPECTION
BEFORE STARTING
1. Read all safety instructions at the beginning of manual.
2. Clean the compactor, removing dirt and dust,
particularly the engine cooling air inlet, carburetor and
air cleaner.
3. Check the air lter for dirt and dust. If air lter is dirty,
replace air lter with a new one as required.
4. Check carburetor for external dirt and dust. Clean with
dry compressed air.
5. Check fastening nuts and bolts for tightness.
ENGINE OIL CHECK
6. To check the engine oil level, place the compactor on
secure level ground with the engine stopped.
7. Remove the dipstick from the holder (Figure 4) and
wipe clean.
Figure 4. Engine Oil Check
8. Remove plug from oil ller. Insert dipstick into the oil
ller then remove. Check the oil level shown on the
dipstick.
9. If the oil level is low (Figure 4), ll to the edge of the
oil ller hole with the recommended oil type as listed
in Table 5. Refer to Table 2 for maximum engine oil
capacity.
OIL DIPSTICK
OIL FILL PLUG
UPPER LIMIT
LOWER LIMIT
FUEL CHECK
1. Visually inspect (Figure 5) to see if fuel level is low. If
fuel is low, replenish with unleaded fuel.
Figure 5. Fuel Check
2. When refueling, be sure to use a strainer for ltration.
DO NOT top-off fuel. Wipe up any spilled fuel
immediately.
Table 5. Oil Type
Season Temperature Oil Type
Summer 25°C or Higher SAE 10W-30
Spring/Fall 25°C~10°C SAE 10W-30/20
Winter 0°C or Lower SAE 10W-10
DANGER
EXPLOSIVE FUEL!
Motor fuels are highly ammable and can
be dangerous if mishandled. DO NOT
smoke while refueling. DO NOT attempt
to refuel the compactor if the engine is
hot! or running.
REMOVE CAP AND
VISUALLY CHECK
FUEL LEVEL

PAGE 16 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
V-BELT INSPECTION
Visually examine the V-belt (Figure 6) and determine if it
is full of tiny cracks, frayed, has pieces of rubber missing,
is peeling or otherwise damaged.
Also, examine the belt and determine if it is oil soaked or
"glazed " (hard shiny appearance on the sides of the belt).
Either of these two conditions can cause the belt to run hot,
which can weaken it and increase the danger of it breaking.
If the V-belt exhibits any of the referenced wear conditions
replace the V-belt immediately.
Figure 6. Drive Belt Inspection
V-BELT TENSION
The V-belt tension is proper if the V-belt bends 10 to 15 mm
(Figure 7) when depressed with nger at midway between
the clutch and vibrator pulleys.
Figure 7. V-Belt Tension
GLAZED
OIL SOAKED
BROKEN
CORD FAILURE
CRACKS
MISSING RUBBER
SIDEWALL
WEAR
WORN BACK
COVER
CORRECT V-BELT
TENSION 10-15 MM
WHEN DEPRESSED
AS SHOWN.
V-BELT
CLUTCH
PULLEY
VIBRATOR
PULLEY
INSPECTION
VIBRATOR OIL CHECK
1. Place the plate compactor horizontally on a at surface.
Make sure the compactor is level when checking the
oil in the vibrator assembly.
2. Check vibrator oil level by removing the oil plug
(vibrator oil gauge) as shown in Figure 8. Clean the
oil gauge and re-thread back in. Remove the oil gauge
again and conrm oil level does not exceed the cross
hash of the oil plug. DO NOT OVERFILL.
3. The vibrator holds approximately 20.3 oz. (600 cc).
IMPORTANT, if oil is required, replace using only SAE
10W-30 motor oil.
Figure 8. Vibrator Oil Check
HANDLE BAR
The height of the handle bar can be adjusted for ease of
use. Adjust the handle height as follows. Refer to Figure 9.
1. Loosen the wing nut.
2. Turn the grip clockwise to raise the handle or
counterclockwise to lower the handle.
3. When the handle bar is raised to the desired height,
tighten the wing nut.
Figure 9. Handle Height Adjustment
Correct level
DRAIN PLUG
(14mm wrench)
600cc
OIL GAUGE (19mm wrench)
Grip
Wing nut

MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23) — PAGE 17
This section is intended to assist the operator with the
initial startup of the compactor. It is extremely important
that this section be read carefully before attempting to use
the compactor in the eld.
STARTING THE ENGINE
1. When the engine is stopped, the hour tachometer
always shows "operation time" (Figure 10).
Figure 10. Hour Tachometer (Cumulative Time)
2. Place the 3-in 1 control lever (Figure 11) to the “ON”
position.The "ON" position means:
Engine Switch is ON
Fuel Valve is ON
Engine Speed is Idle
Figure 11. Engine 3-in-1Control Lever (ON)
CAUTION
DO NOT attempt to operate the compactor
until the Safety, General Information and
Inspection sections of this manual have
been read and thoroughly understood.
ENGINE TACH HOUR
&
METER
HRS
TP-22
Closed Open
CHOKE LEVER
3-in-1 CONTROL LEVER
Operation STOPON
STARTUP
3. Move the choke lever (Figure 11) to the “CLOSED”
position if starting a cold engine. To restart a warm
engine, leave the choke lever in the "OPEN".
4. Grasp the starter grip until you feel some resistance.
Then pull it briskly in the direction shown by the arrow
in Figure 12.
Figure 12. Starter Grip
5. When engine starts, release the starter grip and allow
the rope to recoil.
6. If the choke lever was moved to the "CLOSED" position
to start the engine, gradually move it to the "OPEN"
position (Figure 11) as the engine warms up.
7. Before the compactor is placed in to operation, run the
engine for several minutes. Check for fuel leaks, and
noises that would associate with a loose component.
8. After the engine has started, warm up the engine at idle
speed for 2 to 3 minutes. This is especially important
in cold weather.
NOTICE
DO NOT pull the starter rope all the way to the end.
DO NOT release the starter rope after pulling. Allow it
to rewind as soon as possible.

PAGE 18 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
STARTUP
Figure 13. Throttle (1/3 from Idle Position)
9. During operation, the hour tachometer displays
"rotation number" (Figure 14).
Figure 14. Hour Tachometer (Engine Speed))
CAUTION
When starting the cold engine, if the throttle lever is
moved from the idle position about 1/3 of the way to
the operation position (Figure 13), the centrifugal clutch
may slip as soon as the engine has started. This may
cause a failure of the centrifugal clutch, abnormal
vibration of the machine, which is very dangerous. So,
as soon as the engine has started, return the throttle
lever to the idle position.
THROTTLE LEVER
HANDLE
Idle
position
Operation
position
Engine SpeedOperation Time
ENGINE TACH HOUR
&
METER
HRS
TP-22
ENGINE TACH HOUR
&
METER
RPM
TP-22

MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23) — PAGE 19
OPERATION
OPERATION
1. Once the engine has started, move the engine throttle
lever quickly to the operation position (Figure 15).
Figure 15. Throttle Lever (Operation Position)
2. With the throttle lever in the operation position, the
machine starts vibrating.
3. The direction control lever allows the machine to be
moved either backward or forward (Figure 16). When
the direction control lever is pushed forward, the
machine moves forward. When pulled backward, the
machine moves backward.
Figure 16. Direction Control Lever
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.
THROTTLE LEVER
HANDLE
Idle
position
Operation
position
NOTICE
ALWAYS move the throttle lever quickly without
hesitation, because increasing the engine speed slowly
causes the clutch to slip.
Reverse
Neutral
Forward
DIRECTION CONTROL LEVER
4. When the direction control lever is the neutral position,
the machine vibrates staying at the same location.
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 efciently
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.
6. If you want to suspend work, return the throttle lever
to the idle position quickly (Figure 17).
Figure 17. Throttle Lever (Idle Position)
NOTICE
NEVER stop the engine suddenly while working at
high speeds.
THROTTLE LEVER
HANDLE
Idle
position
Operation
position

PAGE 20 — MVH408GV PLATE COMPACTOR • OPERATION MANUAL — REV. #0 (05/01/23)
OPERATION
STOPPING THE ENGINE
Normal Shutdown
7. Move the throttle lever to the idle position. Cool down
the engine for 3 to 5 minutes at idle speed before
stopping.
8. Move the 3-in-1 control lever to the Stop position.
(Figure 18).
Figure 18. Fuel Valve Lever (OFF)
Emergency Shutdown
1. Move the throttle lever quickly to the idle position, and
place the 3-in-1 control lever to the Stop position.
3-in-1 CONTROL LEVER
Operation STOPON