Wacker Neuson VP1340A US User manual

Operator’s Manual
Vibroplate
VP 1340A
VP 1340AW
VP 1550A
VP 1550AW
0154569EN
0154569en / 008

VP 1340A/VP 1550A Table of Contents
wc_bo0154569008enTOC.fm 1
Foreword 3
1 Safety Information 4
1.1 Laws Pertaining to Spark Arresters ...................................................... 4
1.2 Operating Safety .................................................................................. 5
1.3 Operator Safety while using Internal Combustion Engines .................. 6
1.4 Service Safety ...................................................................................... 7
1.5 Label Locations .................................................................................... 8
1.6 Warning and Informational Labels ........................................................ 9
2 Technical Data 12
2.1 Engine Data ........................................................................................ 12
2.2 Machine Data ..................................................................................... 13
2.3 Sound and Vibration Measurements .................................................. 13
2.4 Dimensions ......................................................................................... 14
3 Operation 15
3.1 Recommended Fuel ........................................................................... 15
3.2 Application .......................................................................................... 15
3.3 Before Starting ................................................................................... 15
3.4 To Start ............................................................................................... 16
3.5 To Stop ............................................................................................... 16
3.6 Operation ............................................................................................ 17

Table of Contents VP 1340A/VP 1550A
wc_bo0154569008enTOC.fm 2
4 Maintenance 18
4.1 Periodic Maintenance Schedule ..........................................................18
4.2 Spark Plug ...........................................................................................20
4.3 Air Cleaner ..........................................................................................21
4.4 Engine Oil ............................................................................................22
4.5 Adjusting Engine Speed ......................................................................22
4.6 Carburetor Adjustment ........................................................................23
4.7 Cleaning Sediment Cup ......................................................................23
4.8 Drive Belt .............................................................................................24
4.9 Exciter Lubrication ...............................................................................25
4.10 Cleaning Plate .....................................................................................25
4.11 Lifting Machine ....................................................................................26
4.12 Transporting Machine ..........................................................................27
4.13 Storage ................................................................................................27
4.14 Troubleshooting ...................................................................................28

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CALIFORNIA
Proposition 65 Warning:
Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain vehicle
components, contain or emit chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive
harm.
Foreword
This manual provides information and procedures to safely operate
and maintain this Wacker Neuson model. For your own safety and
protection from injury, carefully read, understand and observe the
safety instructions described in this manual.
Keep this manual or a copy of it with the machine. If you lose this
manual or need an additional copy, please contact Wacker Neuson
Corporation. This machine is built with user safety in mind; however,
it can present hazards if improperly operated and serviced. Follow
operating instructions carefully! If you have questions about operating
or servicing this equipment, please contact Wacker Neuson
Corporation.
The information contained in this manual was based on machines in
production at the time of publication. Wacker Neuson Corporation
reserves the right to change any portion of this information without
notice.
All rights, especially copying and distribution rights, are reserved.
Copyright 2009 by Wacker Neuson Corporation.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any
means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, without
express written permission from Wacker Neuson Corporation.
Any type of reproduction or distribution not authorized by Wacker
Neuson Corporation represents an infringement of valid copyrights
and will be prosecuted. We expressly reserve the right to make
technical modifications, even without due notice, which aim at
improving our machines or their safety standards.
WARNING

Safety Information VP 1340A/VP 1550A
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1. Safety Information
This manual contains DANGER, WARNING, CAUTION, NOTICE and
NOTE callouts which must be followed to reduce the possibility of
personal injury, damage to the equipment, or improper service.
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential
personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this
symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
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:Used without the safety alert symbol, NOTICE indicates a
situation which, if not avoided, could result in property damage.
Note: Contains additional information important to a procedure.
1.1 Laws Pertaining to Spark Arresters
Notice: State Health Safety Codes and Public Resources Codes
specify that in certain locations spark arresters be used on internal
combustion engines that use hydrocarbon fuels. A spark arrester is a
device designed to prevent accidental discharge of sparks or flames
from the engine exhaust. Spark arresters are qualified and rated by
the United States Forest Service for this purpose.
In order to comply with local laws regarding spark arresters, consult
the engine distributor or the local Health and Safety Administrator.
DANGER
WARNING
CAUTION

VP 1340A/VP 1550A Safety Information
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1.2 Operating Safety
Familiarity and proper training are required for the safe operation of the
machine. Machines operated improperly or by untrained personnel
can be hazardous. Read the operating instructions contained in this
manual and the engine manual, and familiarize yourself with the
location and proper use of all controls. Inexperienced operators should
receive instruction from someone familiar with the machine before
being allowed to operate it.
1.2.1 Do not allow anyone to operate this equipment without proper training.
People operating this equipment must be familiar with the risks and
hazards associated with it.
1.2.2 Do not touch the engine or muffler while the engine is on or
immediately after it has been turned off. These areas get hot and may
cause burns.
1.2.3 Do not use accessories or attachments that are not recommended by
Wacker Neuson. Damage to equipment and injury to the user may
result.
1.2.4 NEVER operate the machine with the beltguard missing. Exposed
drive belt and pulleys create potentially dangerous hazards that can
cause serious injuries.
1.2.5 NEVER leave the machine running unattended.
1.2.6 Be sure operator is familiar with proper safety precautions and
operation techniques before using machine.
1.2.7 ALWAYS wear protective clothing appropriate to the job site when
operating the machine.
1.2.8 Wear hearing protection when operating equipment.
1.2.9 Close fuel valve on engines equipped with one when machine is not
being operated.
1.2.10 Store the machine properly when it is not being used. The machine
should be stored in a clean, dry location out of the reach of children.
1.2.11 Always operate machine with all safety devices and guards in place
and in working order. Do not modify or defeat safety devices. Do not
operate machine if any safety devices or guards are missing or
inoperative.
1.2.12 Read, understand, and follow procedures in the Operator’s Manual
before attempting to operate the machine.

Safety Information VP 1340A/VP 1550A
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1.3 Operator Safety while using Internal Combustion Engines
Internal combustion engines present special hazards during operation
and fueling. Read and follow the warning instructions in the engine
owner’s manual and the safety guidelines below. Failure to follow the
warnings and safety standards could result in severe injury or death.
1.3.1 DO NOT run the machine indoors or in an enclosed area such as a
deep trench unless adequate ventilation, through such items as
exhaust fans or hoses, is provided. Exhaust gas from the engine
contains poisonous carbon monoxide gas; exposure to carbon
monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and may lead to death.
1.3.2 Do not smoke while operating the machine.
1.3.3 Do not smoke when refueling the engine.
1.3.4 Do not refuel a hot or running engine.
1.3.5 Do not refuel the engine near an open flame.
1.3.6 Do not spill fuel when refueling the engine.
1.3.7 Do not run the engine near open flames.
1.3.8 Refill the fuel tank in a well-ventilated area.
1.3.9 Replace the fuel tank cap after refueling.
1.3.10 ALWAYS check the fuel lines and the fuel tank for leaks and cracks
before starting the engine. Do not run the machine if fuel leaks are
present or the fuel lines are loose.
WARNING

VP 1340A/VP 1550A Safety Information
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1.4 Service Safety
A poorly maintained machine can become a safety hazard! In order
for the machine to operate safely and properly over a long period of
time, periodic maintenance and occasional repairs are necessary.
1.4.1 Do not attempt to clean or service the machine while it is running.
Rotating parts can cause severe injury.
1.4.2 Do not crank a flooded engine with the spark plug removed on
gasoline-powered engines. Fuel trapped in the cylinder will squirt out
the spark plug opening.
1.4.3 Do not test for spark on gasoline-powered engines if the engine is
flooded or the smell of gasoline is present. A stray spark could ignite
the fumes.
1.4.4 Do not use gasoline or other types of fuels or flammable solvents to
clean parts, especially in enclosed areas. Fumes from fuels and
solvents can become explosive.
1.4.5 Keep the area around the muffler free of debris such as leaves, paper,
cartons, etc. A hot muffler could ignite the debris and start a fire.
1.4.6 Replace worn or damaged components with spare parts designed and
recommended by Wacker Neuson Corporation.
1.4.7 Disconnect the spark plug on machines equipped with gasoline
engines, before servicing, to avoid accidental start-up.
1.4.8 Keep the machine clean and labels legible. Replace all missing and
hard-to-read labels. Labels provide important operating instructions
and warn of dangers and hazards.
WARNING

Safety Information VP 1340A/VP 1550A
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1.5 Label Locations
wpmgr005939

VP 1340A/VP 1550A Safety Information
wpm_si000305gb.fm 9
1.6 Warning and Informational Labels
Wacker Neuson machines use international pictorial labels where
needed. These labels are described below:
Label Meaning
WARNING!
Always wear hearing and eye protection when
operating this machine.
WARNING!
Hot surface!
Guaranteed sound power level in dB(A).
WARNING!
Hand injury if caught in moving belt.
Always replace beltguard.
CAUTION!
Read and understand the supplied Operator’s
Manual before operating this machine. Failure
to do so increases the risk of injury to yourself
or others.
NOTICE
Lifting point.

Safety Information VP 1340A/VP 1550A
wpm_si000305gb.fm 10
Throttle control lever:
Turtle = Idle or Slow
Rabbit = Full or Fast
DANGER!
Engines emit carbon monoxide; operate only
in well-ventilated area. Read the Operator’s
Manual.
No sparks, flames, or burning objects near the
machine. Shut off the engine before refueling.
Label-machine model
Company logo
Company label
A nameplate listing the model number, item
number, revision number, and serial number is
attached to each unit. Please record the infor-
mation found on this plate so it will be avail-
able should the nameplate become lost or
damaged. When ordering parts or requesting
service information, you will always be asked
to specify the model number, item number,
revision number, and serial number of the unit.
Label Meaning

VP 1340A/VP 1550A Safety Information
wpm_si000305gb.fm 11
This machine may be covered by one or more
patents.
Label Meaning

Technical Data VP 1340A/VP 1550A
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2. Technical Data
2.1 Engine Data
Engine Power Rating
Net power rating per SAE J1349. Actual power output may vary due to
conditions of specific use.
VP 1340A/AW
0009031
0009032
VP 1550A/AW
0009027
0009028
Engine
Engine Make Honda
Engine Model GX 160 UT1 SWX2
Maximum rated power kW (Hp)
@ rated speed
3.6 (4.8)
@ 3600 rpm
Spark Plug NGK BPR 6ES
Electrode Gap mm (in.) 0.7-0.8 (0.028–0.031)
Operating speed rpm 3600
Air Cleaner type Dual element
Engine Lubrication oil grade SAE 10W30
SG or SF
Engine Oil Capacity ml (oz.) 600 (20)
Fuel type Regular unleaded gasoline
Fuel Tank Capacity l (qts.) 3.6 (3.8)
Valve Clearance (cold)
Inlet: mm (in.)
Outlet:
0.15 (0.006)
0.20 (0.008)

VP 1340A/VP 1550A Technical Data
wpm_td000314gb.fm 13
2.2 Machine Data
2.3 Sound and Vibration Measurements
The required sound specification, Paragraph 1.7.4.f of 89/392/EEC
Machinery Directive, is:
• the guaranteed sound power level (LWA) = 108 dB(A).
• the sound pressure level at operator’s location (LpA):
VP1340A/AW = 95 dB(A), VP1550A/AW = 96 dB(A).
These sound values were determined according to ISO 3744 for the
sound power level (LWA) and ISO 6081 for the sound pressure level
(LpA) at the operator’s location.
The weighted effective acceleration value, determined according to
EN ISO 5349, is approximately:
VP1340A/AW = 4.50 m/s2, VP1550A/AW = 4.50 m/s2.
The sound and vibration measurements were obtained with the
machine operating on crushed gravel at nominal engine speed.
VP 1340A/AW
0009031
0009032
VP 1550A/AW
0009027
0009028
Plate
Weight kg (lbs.) VP 1340A: 74 (163)
VP 1340AW: 76 (168)
VP 1550A: 83 (184)
VP 1550AW: 86 (190)
Water Tank Capacity l (qts.) 3.8 (4.0) 7.6 (8.0)
Exciter Speed rpm 5800 ± 100
Exciter Lubrication ml (oz.) 240 (8)
Automatic transmission fluid
Dextron III/Mercon or equivalent
Dimensions mm (in.) 588 (23) x 400 (16) x 911 (35) 588 (23) x 500 (20) x 911 (35)

Technical Data VP 1340A/VP 1550A
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2.4 Dimensions
mm (in.)
588 (23)
400 (16)
911 (36)
wpmgr005966

VP 1340A/VP 1550A Operation
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3. Operation
3.1 Recommended Fuel
The engine requires regular grade unleaded gasoline. Use only fresh,
clean gasoline. Gasoline containing water or dirt will damage fuel
system. Consult engine owner’s manual for complete fuel
specifications.
3.2 Application
This plate is designed for compacting loose, granular soils, gravel, and
paving stones. It is intended to be used in confined areas and areas
next to structures such as walls, curbs, and foundations. Plates
equipped with water tanks can be used for compacting asphalt.
This plate is not recommended for compacting cohesive soils with a
heavy clay content. For cohesive soil, use a vibratory rammer or
sheepsfoot roller.
3.3 Before Starting
3.3.1 Read and understand the safety and operating instructions at the
beginning of this manual.
3.3.2 Check:
• Oil level in the engine
• Fuel level
• Condition of the air cleaner
• Tightness of the external fasteners
• Condition of the fuel lines

Operation VP 1340A/VP 1550A
wpm_tx001087gb.fm 16
3.4 To Start
See Graphic: wc_gr000014
3.4.1 Open fuel valve by moving lever to the right (a1).
Note: If engine is cold, move choke lever to close position (b1). If
engine is hot, set choke to open position (b2).
3.4.2 Turn engine switch to “ON” (e1).
3.4.3 Open throttle by moving it slightly to left (d1).
3.4.4 Pull starter rope (c).
Note: If the oil level in the engine is low, the engine will not start. If this
happens, add oil to engine. Some engines are equipped with an oil
alert light (f) that will come on while pulling the starter rope.
3.4.5 Open choke as engine warms (b2).
3.4.6 Open throttle fully to operate.
3.5 To Stop
See Graphic: wc_gr000014
3.5.1 Reduce engine RPM to idle by moving throttle completely to right (d2).
3.5.2 Turn engine switch to “OFF” (e2).
3.5.3 Close fuel valve by moving lever to the left (a2).

VP 1340A/VP 1550A Operation
wpm_tx001087gb.fm 17
3.6 Operation
Run the engine at full throttle and allow the plate to pull itself along at
its normal speed. When operating on an incline it may be necessary to
assist the plate by pushing it forward slightly. When operating downhill
hold the plate back slightly, if it begins to pick up speed. Depending on
the material being compacted, three or four passes are recommended
to achieve the best compaction.
While a certain amount of moisture in the soil is necessary, excessive
moisture may cause soil particles to stick together and prevent good
compaction. If soil is extremely wet, allow it to dry somewhat before
compacting.
If soil is so dry as to create dust clouds while operating plate, some
moisture should be added to the ground material to improve
compaction. This will also reduce service to the air filter.
For compacting asphalt, use a water tank to wet the asphalt and the
underside of plate. This will prevent asphalt material from sticking.
Two passes are usually sufficent to ensure good compaction.
When using the plate on paving stones, attach a pad to the bottom of
the plate to prevent chipping or grinding surface of stones. A special
polyurethane pad designed for this purpose is available as an optional
accessory.
NOTICE: DO NOT operate the plate on concrete or on extremely hard,
dry, compacted surfaces. The plate will jump rather than vibrate and
could damage both the plate and the engine.

Maintenance VP 1340A/VP 1550A
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4. Maintenance
4.1 Periodic Maintenance Schedule
4.1.1 Engine Maintenance
The chart below lists basic engine maintenance. Refer to the engine
manufacturer’s Operation Manual for additional information on engine
maintenance.
Daily
before
starting
After
first
20 hrs.
Every
2 weeks
or
50 hrs.
Every
month
or
100 hrs.
Every
year
or
300 hrs.
Check fuel level. 
Check engine oil level. 
Inspect fuel lines. 
Inspect air filter. Replace as needed. 
Clean air cleaner elements. 
Change engine oil. 
Clean engine cooling fins. 
Clean sediment cup / fuel filter. 
Check and clean spark plug. 
Check and adjust valve clearance. 
Change exciter oil. 