Nomad BMP 8500 Padfoot Extensions and Cost-Efficient Sourcing

[MikePhua]

The Bomag BMP 8500 and Its Compaction Legacy
The Bomag BMP 8500 is a remote-controlled, articulated trench compactor designed for confined spaces, pipeline backfill, and foundation preparation. Manufactured by Bomag GmbH, a German company founded in 1957 and now part of the Fayat Group, the BMP 8500 represents a fusion of intelligent compaction control and robust mechanical design. With a working weight of approximately 1.6 metric tons and a centrifugal force exceeding 36 kN, it delivers high-efficiency soil compaction in narrow trenches and utility corridors.
Bomag’s BMP series has been widely adopted across Europe, North America, and Asia, with thousands of units deployed in municipal infrastructure and civil engineering projects. The BMP 8500 features dual amplitude settings, automatic shutdown sensors, and padfoot drums that can be extended to increase working width.
Understanding Padfoot Extensions and Their Role
Padfoot extensions are bolt-on steel rings that increase the drum width of the compactor. The standard drum width of the BMP 8500 is approximately 610 mm, and with extensions, it can reach up to 850 mm. These extensions allow operators to cover more ground per pass, improving productivity in wider trenches or open areas.
Terminology annotation:

• Padfoot Drum: A steel drum with protruding rectangular pads designed to knead and compact cohesive soils.
  
• Extension Ring: A bolt-on component that widens the drum by attaching to its outer edge.
  
• Articulated Frame: A chassis design that allows the front and rear halves of the machine to pivot independently, improving maneuverability.
  

Padfoot extensions are typically sold as a set of four—two per drum—and are precision-machined to match the drum’s bolt pattern and diameter. They must be balanced and securely fastened to avoid vibration and uneven compaction.
Challenges in Sourcing and Replacement Costs
Operators seeking replacement padfoot extensions often face sticker shock. OEM parts from authorized dealers can cost upwards of $1,800 per ring, totaling over $7,000 for a full set. This price may exceed the purchase cost of a used machine, especially in secondary markets.
Reasons for high cost include:

• Precision machining and hardened steel construction
  
• Limited aftermarket availability due to niche application
  
• Dealer markup and shipping for oversized components
  

In one case, a contractor in Oregon acquired a lightly used BMP 8500 at a favorable price, only to discover the extension rings had been stripped off prior to sale. The cost of OEM replacements nearly doubled the investment, prompting a search for alternatives.
Alternative Sourcing and Fabrication Strategies
To reduce costs, operators have explored several options:

• Contacting regional Bomag dealers for surplus or demo parts
  
• Searching equipment salvage yards for compatible drums
  
• Commissioning local fabrication shops to build custom extensions
  
• Networking with rental fleets that may have retired units for parts
  

Fabrication tips:

• Use high-strength steel plate (minimum 10 mm thickness)
  
• Match bolt pattern precisely using drum flange as a template
  
• Ensure concentricity and balance to prevent vibration
  
• Apply corrosion-resistant coating for longevity
  

In Alberta, a technician fabricated a set of extensions using plasma-cut steel rings and countersunk bolts. After field testing, the machine performed within spec, and the total cost was under $2,000. The key was accurate measurement and proper torqueing of fasteners.
Operational Considerations and Safety
When installing padfoot extensions:

• Inspect drum surface for cracks or wear before mounting
  
• Use thread-locking compound on bolts to prevent loosening
  
• Torque bolts to manufacturer specification, typically 120–150 Nm
  
• Recheck bolt tightness after first 10 hours of operation
  
• Avoid operating at maximum amplitude until extensions are verified
  

Improper installation can lead to drum imbalance, bearing wear, or structural damage. In one incident, a mismatched extension caused a BMP 8500 to vibrate excessively, leading to premature failure of the drum bearings. The repair cost exceeded $3,000 and required full drum disassembly.
Preventative Maintenance and Long-Term Planning
To extend the life of padfoot extensions:

• Clean soil buildup from drum edges daily
  
• Inspect bolt heads for wear or shearing
  
• Store extensions indoors when not in use
  
• Rotate extensions between drums to equalize wear
  
• Maintain a log of installation dates and torque checks
  

For fleet managers, consider standardizing extension designs across similar machines to simplify inventory and reduce downtime. In 2022, a utility contractor in Michigan implemented a shared extension pool across five BMP 8500 units, reducing replacement costs by 40% and improving deployment flexibility.
Conclusion
Padfoot extensions for the Bomag BMP 8500 are essential for maximizing compaction width and efficiency, but sourcing them requires strategic thinking. Whether through OEM channels, fabrication, or salvage, operators can find cost-effective solutions without compromising performance. With proper installation and maintenance, these components can transform a trench compactor into a versatile tool for broader applications—proving that even small machines deserve big attention.