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"If it's cracked or punctured, the rammer can allow oil to leak out," Boor notes. "Then the internal components can be damaged. Some rammers, like the Stone Stomper, have snubbers to help reduce over extension of the springs and stretching of the boot. This extends life without reducing the compaction force."

• On rammers with four-cycle engines - which most manufacturers now offer due to EPA emissions regulations - check the engine oil level with the rammer standing level.

"Top off if necessary, but don't overfill," Price advises. "This can cause extra oil pressure, which may eventually collapse the oil ring on the piston. Overfilling can result in oil contamination into the muffler, carburetor or air filter, as well."

• Make sure you have a trusted source of clean fuel and check the fuel level.

In addition, check the air filter and clean it monthly, or more often if working conditions are quite dusty. "Air flow problems due to a dirty filter directly affect the rammer's performance," says Bennett.

"This is one of the top causes of accelerated wear or premature failure," Salinas adds.

Replace the air filter once a year unless there are tears, holes or large concentrations of dirt, or if you see signs of oil or water contamination. In such cases, change the filter immediately.