I believe manual calls for 10W30 above 30 degrees and 5W30 below( there is a table listed). I personally change oil every season or if it is no longer "transparent".
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NorthStar Single-Direction Plate Compactor with 5.5 HP Honda GX160 Engine

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- 3,968 lbs. of compacting force
- 65–82 feet per minute travel speed
- 21-1/2in. x 16-5/16in. compacting plate
- 6,400 vibrations per minute
- 163cc Honda GX160 OHV engine with cast iron cylinder liner
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Description
Key Specs
Reviews
Q & A
Accessories
Warranty
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Product Summary
What's Included
- (1) Single-Direction Plate Compactor with Honda GX160 Engine

High Performance and Exceptional Results
Engineered for Tough Jobs
- The NorthStar single-direction plate compactor is designed to compact granular soils and crushed aggregate up to 22in. deep
- Produces 3968 lbs. of compacting force to create a solid foundation for walkways, patios, landscaping, and more
- Operates at 6400 vibrations per minute to get the job done quickly
- Fast travel speed of 65-82 feet per minute helps to save time and energy
Designed To Last
- Heavy-duty shock mounts provide vibration isolation in the components and engine, preventing component wear and reducing operator fatigue
- Oil level for vibrating shaft (exciter) is easy to check
Proven and Reliable Honda Power
Best in Class Performance
- Honda sets the standard as the largest manufacturer of engines to power our NorthStar plate compactors
- Honda GX160 OHV engine gives you industry-leading fuel efficiency, quiet operation, and most importantly, the power you need to get the job done
- Transistorized ignition is designed for a reliable start every time
Easy To Work With
- Components in the GX160 engine allow it to run with less vibration and less noise, so it's easier to be around
- Built to last with minimal maintenance, so you'll stay on the job with less downtime
The NorthStar Advantage
Best Warranty in the Industry
- We stand behind our NorthStar plate compactor with a 2-year limited warranty and 3-year Honda GX engine warranty
Guaranteed Satisfaction
- Shop in complete confidence, knowing Northern Tool + Equipment protects your investment and is ready to provide you with the assistance and helpful resources you need
Superior Service and Support
- Should you ever need service or support, NorthStar's field-trained technical staff is a phone call or e-mail away
- Our professional in-store service department performs all repairs on site
Features + Benefits

- 3,968 lbs. of compacting force
- 65–82 feet per minute travel speed
- 21-1/2in. x 16-5/16in. compacting plate
- 6,400 vibrations per minute
- 163cc Honda GX160 OHV engine with cast iron cylinder liner
- Float-type carburetor
- Transistorized ignition
- Angled combustion chamber for increased power and efficiency
- Centrifugal flyweight type governor
- 12V lighting coil
- Gas tank strainer and antisplash device included
- Easy-check oil level for vibrating shaft (exciter) via sight glass
- Lift and protect guard applied
- 2-year limited warranty/3-year limited warranty on Honda GX engine
Key Specs
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
item# | 49160 |
Brand | NorthStar |
Manufacturer's Warranty | 2 year limited warranty |
Ship Weight | 207.0 LB |
Horsepower | 5.5 HP |
Engine Brand | Honda |
Engine Model | GX160 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline |
Product Type | Plate Compactor |
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
Plate Length | 21.5 in |
Plate Width | 16.31 in |
Compaction Force | 3,968 lb |
Vibrations Per Minute | 6,400 |
Travel Speed | 82 ft./min. |
Reversible | No |
Engine Cooling Method | Air |
Product Weight | 210 lb |
Reviews
Questions & Answers
Questions
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· 9 years ago
vibrator oil
In the parts list for the Vibratory Housing Assembly I see an oil gage. It is number 16 in the list. However, in the manual, I see no mention of checking or changing the oil or what type is required. What am I missing?
Thanks.
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Jo17· 9 years ago
Helpful?
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NorthstarExpert11· 9 years ago
The vibratory housing assembly on this plate compactor takes SAE 10W/30 oil. Change the oil after the first 300 operating hours and every year.
Helpful?
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· 3 years ago
What is the oil level and viscosity of the vibrating shaft (exciter)?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert29· 3 years ago
The vibrator uses SAE 10W-30 engine oil. There is a sight glass to determine the oil level.
Helpful?
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· 4 years ago
Is there a water tank a available for this model? If so what is the model number?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert7· 4 years ago
A water tank is not currently available for this model.
Helpful?
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· 4 years ago
Is there a wheel kit available for this model compactor?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 4 years ago
A wheel kit is currently not available for this plate compactor.
Helpful?
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· 4 years ago
Can this compactor be used for asphalt ?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This NorthStar plate compactor is not recommended for use on asphalt. It is designed for use on granular soils and gravel.
Helpful?
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· 6 years ago
What are the shipping dimensions?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This plate compactor ships in one box measuring 18.11" long x 22.44" wide x 43.3" high.
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· 8 years ago
How much slope will it go up while operating ? For instance compacting a driveway.
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This plate compactor has the ability to work on a grade up to 20%.
Helpful?
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· 9 years ago
what size driving belt this compactor use
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
This plate compactor has an A29 V belt. Its outside length is 31", it is 1/2" wide and 5/16" thick. The replacement belt is part #JMQBT-A29. It is available through our sister company, Jacks Small Engines. Please visit www.JacksSmallEngines.com for pricing and availability.
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· 9 years ago
Is a rubber pad available for setting pavers?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
The rubber pad for setting pavers is no longer available.
Helpful?
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· 10 years ago
i need part # QTC-900 throttle cable. How do I order
this part?
1 answer-
NorthstarExpert12· 3 years ago
The throttle cable, part #JMQTC-900, is available through our sister company, Jacks Small Engines. Please visit www.JacksSmallEngines.com for pricing and availability.
Helpful?
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Warranty
Manufacturer's Warranty
2 year limited warranty
Extend Your Warranty Coverage with a Northern Protection Plan (NPP)
Repair Plan — 1 Year
A Northern Protection Plan is available after adding the product to your shopping cart.
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Shipping: Sold Out
Item # 87891
$217.00Shipping:
Factory shippedStore Pickup:
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- $161.00
Shipping:
Factory shippedStore Pickup:
Not available - online only
- $3038.00
Shipping:
Factory shippedHeavy/large item. Lift gate service available.
Store Pickup:
Not available - online only
Specifications
5.5 HP
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2.3 HP
Honda
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GX160
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Gasoline
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Gasoline
Plate Compactor
Plate Compactor Accessory
Rammer Accessory
Rammer
21.5 in
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13 in
16.31 in
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11 in
3,968 lb
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3,579 lb
6,400
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82 ft./min.
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31 ft./min.
No
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Air
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Air
210 lb
15.765 lb
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131 lb









