What is the difference between a 2-cycle and 4-cycle Wacker rammer?
The key difference is the engine type. Wacker Neuson 2-cycle rammers (BS50-2, BS60-2, BS70-2, etc.) use a 2-stroke engine that requires fuel and oil to be pre-mixed before filling the tank. They tend to be lighter and simpler mechanically. Wacker Neuson 4-cycle rammers (BS50-4, BS60-4, BS70-4AS, etc.) use a 4-stroke engine with a separate oil sump—no fuel mixing required. The 4-cycle models generally run quieter, produce lower emissions, and can be easier to maintain for operators more familiar with standard 4-stroke small engines like Honda GX series. Both types use the same bellows-driven compaction mechanism.
What Wacker Neuson 4-cycle rammer models does DHS Equipment carry parts for?
DHS Equipment stocks parts for the BS50-4, BS50-4AS, BS60-4, BS60-4AS, BS70-4AS, MS54, and MS64. These models use either the Wacker WM90/WM100 engine or the Honda GX100 engine depending on configuration. Parts are organized by model for easy lookup, and maintenance kits are available for the BS50-4/BS60-4 and the 4AS series (BS50-4AS, BS60-4AS, BS70-4AS) to simplify routine service.
What are the most commonly replaced parts on a 4-cycle Wacker rammer?
The bellows is the most frequently replaced part—as with the 2-cycle models, it's the flexible rubber boot that absorbs the constant impact between the engine and the compaction mechanism. Other common replacements include the air filter, spark plug, fuel valve, carburetor or carb rebuild kit, clutch, throttle cable, and rammer shoe. The rammer shoe (the steel foot that contacts the ground) wears down over time and should be inspected regularly on high-use machines. DHS Equipment carries both 10" and 11" iron and plastic rammer shoes for Wacker Neuson models.
How often should I change the oil in a 4-cycle Wacker rammer?
For Wacker Neuson 4-cycle rammers using the WM90 or WM100 engine, change the engine oil after the first 20 hours of use to remove break-in contaminants, then every 100 hours thereafter under normal operating conditions. If the machine is used in extreme heat or under continuous heavy load, shorten the interval accordingly. Always use oil that meets the specifications in your engine manual—most WM-series engines specify SAE 10W-30 for general use. Keeping up with oil changes is one of the most important things you can do to maximize engine life on a rammer.
Where can I find a parts diagram for my 4-cycle Wacker rammer?
DHS Equipment offers free parts diagram downloads for many Wacker Neuson rammer models. If you need help identifying the correct part for your specific model and serial number, contact us at [email protected] or call 866-611-9369 and our team will help you find the right part the first time.