Is this whacker plate / electric compactor any good?

[ey143]

http://www.evolutionpowertools.com/uk/build/hulkelectro.php

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Evolution-E...&qid=1409297872&sr=8-1&keywords=whacker+plate

I'm considering purchasing the above item to undertake some block paving work and general landscaping in my garden but also to finish off part of my drive way.

I know this item is not as powerful or as heavy as a petrol version, but will it be ok for compacting type 1 MOT or crusher run as a sub base and then block paving later? I didnt want to deal with the hassle of hiring a better one if I wanted to undertake a slow DIY project.

Thanks.

 

[Burnerman]

Maybe fine for very light aggregate and indoor working, but I'd always hire the real thing for paving work. Even the cheaper petrol machines are a waste of time.
John

 

[ey143]

Hi

What sort of compaction rate or power do you look for,

Also what is a typical cost for hiring such a machine?

 

[Burnerman]

The likes of HSS hire vibrating plates from £35 to £45 per day.....various machines will be available to suit the job in hand.
I rarely use them now but I do fix them from time to time - and I find the lighter duty Chinese copy machines to be completely useless - having no clutch on occasion to not enough weight behind them.
John