Marshalltown PC3000T Tectonic Plate Compactor Owner's Manual - Manual (Page 5)

INTRODUCTION
5
INTRODUCTION AND OPERATING PRINCIPLE
Congratulations on your purchase of our vibratory plate compactor. This high performance machine has been engineered to provide you with many
years of good dependable service. This plate is ergonomically engineered to optimize operator interface with the total machine – it’s really “user
friendly”. Besides good visibility, you’ll find that the controls are exactly in the right places for maximum comfort. And it is very convenient to monitor
all the consumiales – fuel, oil, etc. The engine is equipped with a centrifugal clutch allowing the engine to idle without transmitting rotation to the ec-
centric.
When the engine runs at operating speed, an eccentric shaft rotates which produces high frequency vibration in the base plate (see Technical Data
section for details). With each rotation of the eccentric, the base plate is lifted, moved forward, and slammed down onto the ground. This vibration
and force is transmitted to the underlying material, arranging it into a dense mass.
The eccentric shaft is mounted on two heavy open bearings in the eccentric housing which are an integral part of the base plate. The eccentric shaft
has a loose fit with the inner race of the bearing which allows turning of the shaft within the bearing. This is normal and will produce some wear on
the shaft and bearings. This does not indicate they need to be replaced. The housing is partially filled with oil. The vibration forces oil droplets to
jump when the eccentric hits these droplets, it produces an oil mist which is forced into the bearings. This continually lubricates the bearings and
flushes away heat.
The eccentric delivers a centrifugal force sufficient to compact all types of soil. Superior vibration isolation to the operator is achieved by mounting
heavy-duty shock mounts between the eccentric and support frames. Four rubber vibration isolators are mounted between the base plate and the
engine deck to isolate the vibration from the engine, giving it long life.
The following instructions were compiled to provide you information on how to obtain long and trouble-free use. Periodic maintenance is essential.
Read this manual in its entirety and follow the instructions carefully. Failure to do so may cause injury to you or a bystander.
MACHINE DIAGRAM
Water Tank
Engine
Air Filter
Handle
Belt & Belt Cover
Base Plate