Key Features
How The BT Reversible Plate Compactor 18 Inch Compares To Other Compaction Options
Contractors evaluating reversible plate compactors for granular soils and aggregate usually face this question: should I get a basic gas-powered reversible compactor, this diesel BT model, or a premium diesel unit from a top industrial brand?
| Feature | Basic Gas Reversible Compactor, Honda GX160-GX270 | BT Reversible Plate Compactor, Yanmar Diesel | Premium Diesel Reversible Compactor, Industrial-Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel | Diesel |
| Centrifugal Force | 3,500-11,690 lbs/ft2 | 11,240 lb | 14,600+ lbf |
| Reversing Mechanism | Manual or basic hydraulic | Hydraulic reversing mechanism | Hydraulic reversing mechanism |
| Weight | 200-400 lbs | 573 lbs | 1,000+ lbs |
Product Description
How The BT Reversible Plate Compactor Compares To Other Compaction Options
Contractors evaluating reversible plate compactors for granular soils and aggregate usually face this question: should I get a basic gas-powered reversible compactor, this diesel BT model, or a premium diesel unit from a top industrial brand?
Here's the honest comparison:
| Feature | Basic Gas Reversible Compactor, Honda GX160-GX270 ($2,000-$4,500) | BT Reversible Plate Compactor, Yanmar Diesel ($7,124) | Premium Diesel Reversible Compactor, Hatz/Industrial ($8,000-$10,000+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Honda gas engine, 5.5-9 HP | Yanmar L70 diesel, 4.7 HP | Hatz or similar industrial diesel |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel | Diesel |
| Weight | 200-400 lbs. | 573 lbs. (1,014 lbs. per spec sheet) | 1,000+ lbs. |
| Plate Size | 14-19 in. wide | 17.7 in. x 27.5 in. (35.4 in. L x 19.7 in. W per spec) | 27.5-33.5 in. wide |
| Centrifugal Force | 3,500-11,690 lbs/ft² | 11,240 lb. | 14,600+ lbf |
| Reversing Mechanism | Manual or basic hydraulic | Hydraulic reversing mechanism for forward and backward movement | Hydraulic reversing mechanism |
| Climbing Gradient | Not always rated | Up to 35% climbing gradient | Similar or better rated |
| Frame Protection | Basic guarding | Fully enclosed frame protects the diesel engine, cast aluminum belt guard, ductile iron base | Fully enclosed, heavy-duty frame |
| Travel Speed | Varies | 65-82 ft/min (75 ft/min per spec) | Up to 92 ft/min |
| Transport | Basic lift points or none | Integrated hoist hook recess for easy loading and unloading | Similar hoist points standard |
Why The BT Reversible Plate Compactor Is Worth The Investment
This isn't just a plate compactor, it's a diesel-powered, fully enclosed machine built with a ductile iron base and cast aluminum belt guard, giving contractors the durability and fuel efficiency of diesel power at a lower price point than premium industrial brands.
The BTPC240Y specifically addresses the needs of contractors who need serious compaction force and diesel fuel efficiency for granular soils, aggregate base, and large footprint compaction jobs without paying premium industrial brand pricing.
Diesel Power With Serious Compaction Force. With 11,240 lb. of centrifugal force and a 17.7 in. x 27.5 in. plate, this compactor pounds large footprints quickly and effectively, while the hydraulic reversing mechanism gives operators flexible maneuverability for forward, backward, and spot-on compaction that manual reversing systems can't match.
Built For Durability And Reliable Operation
The fully enclosed frame protects the powerful Yanmar L70 diesel engine for maximum reliability in tough conditions
A cast aluminum belt guard protects the clutch, while the ductile iron base adds long-term longevity to the machine
The plate travels at 65 to 82 feet per minute, even on slopes up to a 35% climbing gradient
Engineered For Practical Job Site Use
An integrated hoist hook recess makes the compactor easy to load and unload at job sites
5,200 VPM vibration frequency delivers consistent, high-frequency compaction across granular and mixed soils
The hydraulic reversing mechanism allows precise forward and backward movement without repositioning the operator
Real Savings
Diesel fuel efficiency reduces ongoing fuel costs compared to gas-powered compactors of similar output
The hydraulic reversing mechanism reduces operator fatigue and repositioning time compared to manual reversing systems
A ductile iron base and enclosed frame reduce the risk of costly damage from job site debris and impacts
Free shipping and no sales tax through Summit Forge Supply keeps the total cost down compared to buying elsewhere and paying tax and freight separately
The Bottom Line Contractors who need serious compaction force for granular soils and aggregate base can't afford a basic gas compactor that lacks the force or diesel efficiency for demanding jobs. The BT Reversible Plate Compactor is built with a Yanmar diesel engine, a durable enclosed frame, and a hydraulic reversing mechanism, so it delivers premium-level compaction performance without premium industrial brand pricing. For anyone compacting large footprints or working aggregate base on a regular basis, this is the compactor built to get it done.
- Enclosed frame to protect the Yanmar L70 diesel engine
- Hydraulic reversing mechanism allows forward and backward movement
- Cast aluminum throttle and ductile iron base
- 17.7 by 27.5 In. plate provides great coverage for compaction
- Travels at 65 to 82 feet per minute, at up to 35% climbing gradient
- 35k Newton centrifugal force, with 5,200 VPM frequency
- Easy to load and unload with hoist hook recess
Equipment Type Reversible Plate Compactor Centrifugal Force (Lb.) 11240 lb. Dimensions 30 in. L x 20 in. W x 48 in. H Engine L100AE Diesel Engine Brand Yanmar Gradient Climb 35% Horsepower 4.7 HP Plate Size L x W (In.) 35.4 in. L × 19.7 in. W Travel Speed 75 Ft./Min. Vibrations Per Minute 4400 Warranty 1 Year Water Tank No Weight 1014 lb.
Full Spec Sheet
| Model | BTPC240Y |
| Engine | Yanmar L70 Diesel, 4.7 HP |
| Centrifugal Force | 11,240 lb |
| Dimensions | 30 in L x 20 in W x 48 in H |
| Plate Size | 17.7 in x 27.5 in |
| Travel Speed | 65-82 ft/min |
| Vibrations Per Minute | 5,200 |
| Gradient Climb | 35% |
| Weight | 573 lb |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
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