Tomahawk Vibratory Plate Compactor Tamper with Kohler Engine for Dirt Gravel Soil Compaction

6HP KOHLER CH260 ENGINE

Durable and tough, this plate compactor is built to last, making it perfect for professionals, construction equipment rental, and do-it-yourselfers alike.

COMPACTION FORCE OF 3,000 LBS/FT

Achieve 100% Compaction Ratings at 6,400 blows/min, required for nuclear density testing and field compaction tests.

17" X 21" BASE PLATE

Designed to maneuver narrow, cramped spaces at 79 ft/min - this plate compactor is a contractor's first choice for sidewalks, driveways, and repair work.

COMPACT SOILS UP TO 22"

Compact granular soils such as gravel, based, and mixed soils in preparation for retaining walls, foundations, trenchwork, and more.

Details

Featuring a 17” x 21” cast iron base plate, the TPC80 Forward Plate Compactor delivers an incredible force of 3,000 lbs. per square ft. at 6,400VPM. Powered by the incredible 6 HP Kohler Engine, this vibratory plate is perfect for jobsites, households, and rental fleets. Designed specifically to maneuver narrow, cramped spaces, the TPC80 compacts cohesive and granular soils up to 22 inches. Ideal for compacting landscapes, hardscapes, roadways, and asphalt, this vibratory plate is perfect for professionals, construction equipment rental, and do-it-yourselfers alike. Durable and tough, the TPC80 Forward Plate Compactor is built to last and is backed by a 3 year engine warranty and 1 year product warranty, making it perfect for those tackling projects including walkways, patios, driveways, or paver installation.

Features

• 6 HP chain driven OHC Kohler Engine
• Achieve 100% compaction ratings on field density tests and nuclear densometers
• Compaction force of 3000 lbs/ft² at 6400 blows per minute
• Compaction of cohesive and granular soils and clays up to 22 in.
• Travel speed of 79 ft. per minute
• The compact 17 x 21 in. plate works around cramped and narrow spaces
• A full 2 dBA quieter than competitive models
• Large 1 Gal. fuel
• 3-year engine warranty and 1-year product warranty
• CARB and EPA compliant

Specifications

• Engine: Kohler Command PRO CH260
• Power: 6HP
• Oil Capacity: .6 quarts
• Weight: 220 lbs (99.7 kg)
• Plate Size (LxW): 17 x 21 in ( 43.1 x 53.3 cm)
• Centrifugal Force: 13 Kn
• Vibration Frequency: 100 hz
• Travel Speed: 79 ft/min 
• Compaction Depth Per Lift at 100% compaction : 3-4 inches

Package Includes

Applications

• Retaining Walls
• Footings and Foundation Projects
• Landscapes and hardscapes
• Patchwork on Asphalt
• Pipeline Applications
• Road Repair and Trenchwork
• Cohesive Soils and Granular Soils
• Sticky soils - such as clay or clayey silt
• Gravel, sand, silt, clay, or mixed soils
• Base, Subbase, Subgrade, Subsoil 
• Backfill Pools, Parks, Cemeteries, and Golf Courses

What Compactor Do I Need?

A compactor is an essential tool for preparing a solid base for structures such as patios, retaining walls, concrete slabs, and more. Tamping rammers and compactors are used to increase the density of soil by reducing air voids, which help to improve soil stability, support structures, and prevent settling. With so many options on the market, choosing the right plate compactor can be a daunting task. 

Small Jobs

If you are installing artificial turf, building dirt pathways, or need to improve soil stability - but do not need to adhere to a minimum compaction rating you can use a compactor in the 110 lbs (50 kilo) range. These are great for anyone looking to get a job done by themselves with little headache.

Medium Jobs

If your project involves building a retaining wall, patio, driveway, sidewalk, or concrete slab you will need a bit more muscle. Rammers and compactors in the 130-200 lbs (60-90 kilo) range that can achieve a compaction force above 3,000 lbs²/ft are best. You will achieve 98-100% compaction ratings needed for proper compaction to prevent soil settling and foundation damage. 

Large Jobs

Equipment needed for large compaction projects should also be able to achieve a minimum compaction force of 3,000 lbs²/ft to reach 98-100% compaction ratings needed for proper compaction. Where this equipment differs from medium range equipment is it's efficiency. Large jobs are typically performed by professional contractors where speed and jobsite efficiency are critical to their success. Compactors that help jobsite efficiency may feature reverse control, hydraulic drive, and the ability to compact asphalt. If you are not too worried about the time it takes to complete a project, you can save a few bucks and invest in equipment in the medium range.

Renting vs. Buying 

Buy
Investing in your own plate compactor is ideal for professionals who need reliable, on-demand access to equipment. Ownership means no rental wait times, lower long-term costs, and the freedom to choose the right model for your jobs. With proper care, your compactor can serve you for years—paying for itself after just a few projects. It’s the smart choice for contractors, landscapers, and construction crews who compact frequently.

Rent
Renting is best for one-off or infrequent projects where the upfront cost of buying isn’t justified. It offers flexibility and no maintenance responsibilities, but can get expensive over time. If you’re using a compactor more than a few times a year, buying will quickly become the more cost-effective option.

Buy Local

To find a local Tomahawk Power Distributor, please refer to our Buy Local page to locate your regional manager that can refer you to the closest distributer. 

How Does this Ship?

⚠ This is an oversized item which requires shipment on a freight truck. Ship this item to a business address to shave 1-2 days off the transit time!

HOW DOES THIS SHIP?

CA Proposition 65 Warning

⚠ WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Info and Guides

Specification Sheet

Operations Manual

Parts Manual

How to Troubleshoot A Plate Compactor

How to Install Artificial Turf in Your Yard