Rammax RW1404-MR Trench Roller Operation and Service Essentials

[MikePhua]

The Rammax Legacy in Soil Compaction
Rammax, a German brand now under the Multiquip umbrella, has long been associated with trench rollers—specialized machines designed for compacting cohesive soils in confined spaces. The RW1404-MR model, introduced in the late 1990s, represents a transitional generation of mid-size trench rollers that blend mechanical simplicity with hydraulic control. With a working weight of approximately 3,000 kg and a drum width of around 640 mm, the RW1404-MR is ideal for utility trench backfill, pipeline bedding, and foundation preparation.
Rammax pioneered the concept of remote-controlled trench rollers, allowing operators to maintain safe distance while achieving high compaction energy. The RW1404-MR features dual amplitude settings, articulated steering, and a robust steel drum design with padfoot surface for optimal shearing in clay-rich soils.
Engine and Drivetrain Configuration
The RW1404-MR is powered by a diesel engine—typically a Hatz or Yanmar air-cooled unit—delivering around 20 horsepower. The engine drives a hydraulic pump that powers the drum motors, steering cylinder, and vibration system.
Key components:

• Diesel engine with recoil or electric start
  
• Hydraulic pump and reservoir
  
• Drum drive motors with planetary reduction
  
• Vibration exciter with dual amplitude control
  
• Articulated center pivot for steering
  

Terminology:

• Padfoot drum: A steel roller with protruding feet designed to knead and compact cohesive soils.
  
• Exciter: A rotating mass that generates vibration within the drum.
  
• Articulated steering: A pivoting joint that allows the front and rear drum assemblies to steer independently.
  
• Remote control: A handheld transmitter used to operate the machine from a safe distance.
  

One operator in Alberta used his RW1404-MR to compact trench backfill in frozen clay. The padfoot drums penetrated the crust, while the high amplitude setting broke up frost lenses, allowing uniform compaction.
Control System and Remote Operation
The RW1404-MR features a remote control system, either infrared or radio frequency depending on year and configuration. The remote allows the operator to start/stop the engine, engage vibration, steer, and control travel direction.
Control functions:

• Engine start/stop
  
• Forward/reverse travel
  
• Left/right steering
  
• Vibration on/off
  
• Emergency stop
  

Challenges with remote systems include:

• Signal interference from nearby equipment
  
• Battery failure in transmitter or receiver
  
• Misalignment of infrared beam
  
• Receiver corrosion or wiring faults
  

Solutions:

• Use fresh batteries and test signal range before operation
  
• Clean receiver lens and check mounting alignment
  
• Inspect wiring harness for abrasion or water ingress
  
• Replace damaged antennas or upgrade to RF system if available
  

One technician in Georgia retrofitted his infrared unit with a radio frequency receiver, improving reliability in dusty trench environments and allowing operation around corners.
Routine Maintenance and Service Intervals
To keep the RW1404-MR running reliably, regular service is essential. The machine operates in harsh conditions—mud, vibration, and confined spaces—so preventive care reduces downtime.
Recommended intervals:

• Engine oil and filter: every 100 hours
  
• Hydraulic fluid and filter: every 250 hours
  
• Drum motor inspection: every 500 hours
  
• Exciter bearing grease: every 100 hours
  
• Air filter cleaning: weekly or as needed
  
• Remote control battery check: daily
  

Additional tips:

• Drain water from hydraulic reservoir if condensation is present
  
• Inspect drum scrapers and replace if worn
  
• Check drum bolts and exciter mounts for tightness
  
• Clean cooling fins on engine to prevent overheating
  
• Store remote in dry, padded case to avoid damage
  

One fleet in Texas added a laminated maintenance checklist to each machine, reducing missed service items and improving uptime across their trench roller fleet.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Operators may encounter several recurring problems with older RW1404-MR units:

• Engine won’t start: check fuel, glow plugs, starter solenoid
  
• No vibration: inspect exciter belt, hydraulic flow, amplitude selector
  
• Steering sluggish: check pivot grease, hydraulic pressure, cylinder seals
  
• Remote unresponsive: test transmitter, receiver, and wiring continuity
  
• Travel jerky: inspect drum motor couplings and hydraulic filters
  

Diagnostic strategy:

• Use a pressure gauge to test hydraulic output
  
• Check voltage at remote receiver terminals
  
• Inspect exciter shaft for bearing wear or misalignment
  
• Verify drum rotation direction and speed under load
  

One operator in Pennsylvania found that his vibration system failed due to a cracked exciter housing. After replacing the housing and rebalancing the shaft, the machine returned to full performance.
Parts Availability and Manual Access
While the RW1404-MR is no longer in active production, parts remain available through Multiquip dealers and specialized suppliers. Common replacement items include:

• Hydraulic filters
  
• Drum scraper blades
  
• Remote control units
  
• Exciter belts and bearings
  
• Engine service kits
  

For technical diagrams, torque specs, and wiring schematics, the original operator’s manual is essential. If unavailable, contacting Multiquip or authorized service centers can yield digital copies or reprints.
One contractor in Ontario sourced a manual through a regional dealer after providing the serial number and model variant. The manual included troubleshooting charts, hydraulic schematics, and service intervals—critical for field repairs.
Conclusion
The Rammax RW1404-MR trench roller remains a capable and compact solution for soil compaction in tight spaces. With its padfoot drums, remote control system, and hydraulic drivetrain, it delivers consistent results in trench backfill, pipeline bedding, and foundation prep. While aging units may require attention to wiring, exciter components, and remote reliability, disciplined maintenance and informed troubleshooting keep these machines productive. In the trenching world, a well-tuned roller is the difference between settlement and stability—and the RW1404-MR still earns its place in the dirt.