Plate Compactor Buying Guide: Forestwest BM735, BM736 & BM737 Compared

Are you tackling a landscaping, hardscaping, or asphalt project and wondering which plate compactor is right for you? Whether you’re a professional contractor, running a construction equipment rental business, or a DIY enthusiast, choosing the right compaction machine can make or break your project’s durability and finish.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a plate compactor does, why you need one, and how Forestwest’s new BM735, BM736, and BM737 models stack up. By the end, you’ll know exactly which compactor suits your job – and your budget.

What Is a Plate Compactor and Why Do You Need One?

A plate compactor (also called a vibrating plate or tamper) is a powerful piece of compaction equipment used to compress soil, gravel, asphalt, and pavers. It works by delivering rapid vibrations through a heavy steel base plate, which rearranges particles and removes air voids. This creates a dense, stable, and level surface that resists settling, cracking, and water damage.

Common applications include:

• Preparing sub-bases for pathways, patios, driveways, and pavers
• Compacting asphalt for small to medium repairs
• Stabilising landscaping and hardscaping features
• Trench backfill and road base compaction

Without proper compaction, your pavement or slab may shift, sink, or crack within months. That’s why investing in a reliable plate compactor is essential for any serious groundworks project.

Why Choose Forestwest Plate Compactors?

Forestwest has engineered its new plate compactor series to deliver professional-grade performance with user-friendly features. Here’s what sets them apart:

✅ Reliable Loncin G200F Engine

All three models – BM735, BM736, and BM737 – are powered by the Loncin G200F engine. Known for consistent power, easy starting, and fuel efficiency, this engine ensures you get the job done without frustrating breakdowns.

✅ Heavy-Duty Welded Steel Plate with Internal Reinforcing Ribs

The base plates are fabricated from thick steel plate and reinforced with internal ribs. This design prevents warping and cracking under heavy use – so your compactor stays flat and effective for years.

✅ Low Vibration Handle System

Operator fatigue is a real issue with traditional compactors. Forestwest’s low vibration handle system absorbs shocks before they reach your hands and arms, allowing longer work sessions with less discomfort.

✅ Superior Compaction Force

Delivering up to 3,000 lbs per square foot at 6,400 VPM, these machines generate impressive centrifugal force that drives deep into cohesive and granular soils. The result? Faster compaction, fewer passes, and a rock-solid surface.

✅ Compact Design for Tight Spaces

With slim profiles and manageable weights, these compactors easily manoeuvre in narrow spaces like trenches, between walls, or around obstacles. They can compact cohesive and granular soil up to 22 inches deep – more than enough for most residential and commercial jobs.

Forestwest BM735 vs BM736 vs BM737

To help you decide, here’s a detailed breakdown of each model’s specifications and best-use scenarios.

🔹 BM735 – The Agile DIY & Light Commercial Choice

At just 63 kg, the BM735 is the most portable model. It’s ideal for homeowners and small landscaping jobs where you need to move the machine around frequently. Its 25 cm compaction depth handles most patio and pathway sub-bases easily, and the 150 m²/h area capacity means you can finish a small courtyard in a few hours.

Best applications:

• Paver installation for small patios
• Compacting base material under garden sheds
• Light asphalt touch-ups

🔹 BM736 – The Balanced Mid-Range Performer

The 80 kg BM736 hits the sweet spot between power and portability. With 12 kN centrifugal force and 30 cm compaction depth, it’s capable of tackling professional landscaping projects and equipment rental fleets. The larger plate (55×41 cm) covers more ground – 198 m²/h – saving you time on medium-sized driveways and terraces.

Best applications:

• Residential driveways and walkways
• Hardscape base preparation for decks and patios
• Rental yard inventory (durable and user-friendly)

🔹 BM737 – The Heavy-Duty Professional’s Choice

If you regularly compact road base, asphalt, or deep granular fills, the 100 kg BM737 is your workhorse. Its 13 kN force and 30 cm depth combined with the largest plate (60×44 cm) deliver a staggering 215 m²/h productivity. Although slightly slower in travel speed (23 cm/s), it moves more material per pass due to its size and weight.

Best applications:

• Large driveways and commercial parking strips
• Asphalt compaction for repairs or new installations
• Thick road base layers and trench backfill

Why You Need a Plate Compactor – The Business Case

Still on the fence? Here’s why buying (rather than renting) a Forestwest plate compactor makes sense:

1. Cost savings over time – Renting a compactor for multiple jobs quickly exceeds the purchase price. Own your equipment and profit from every job.
2. Job site readiness – No more waiting for rental shop hours or worrying about availability. Your compactor is ready when you are.
3. Consistent results – Familiarity with your machine leads to better, faster compaction. Rental units often arrive with worn plates or poorly maintained engines.
4. Resale value – Quality compactors hold their value. Sell it when you upgrade, or keep it as a backup.

For rental business owners, adding the BM736 and BM737 to your fleet gives customers reliable, easy-to-operate options that reduce complaints and maintenance calls.

Which Forestwest Plate Compactor Should You Buy?

• Choose the BM735 if you’re a DIYer or landscaper doing small patios, pathways, or paver jobs under 50 m².
• Choose the BM736 if you run a small contracting business or rental fleet, and need a versatile mid-weight machine for driveways and terraces.
• Choose the BM737 if you’re a heavy-duty professional tackling large asphalt, road base, or deep soil compaction day in and day out.

All three models share the same reliable Loncin G200F engine, low vibration handle, and reinforced steel plate – so you’re getting Forestwest quality no matter which size you pick.

Ready to Upgrade Your Compaction Game?

Visit your local Forestwest store or check our website to see the BM735, BM736, and BM737 plate compactors in action. Get the right machine for your next project – and enjoy a perfectly compacted surface that lasts for decades.

Contact us today for advice or demo videos.