When it comes to soil compaction, having the right tool for the job can be the difference between a smooth, on-time project versus costly rework. At JAPA Machinery Group & JAPA Equipment Rentals, we carry three powerful 84-inch single-drum vibratory compactors—each designed for different conditions, budgets, and performance needs.
First thing's First...
Padfoot Drum vs. Smooth Drum: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between a padfoot drum and a smooth drum isn’t just about preference—it’s about matching the drum to your material and the stage of your project.
Pad Drum (Sheepsfoot)
Padfoot drums have raised “pads” or “feet” that penetrate and knead the soil. This kneading action is perfect for cohesive materials—think clay, silt, and mixed soils that need more than just surface compaction. The pads help break up clumps, drive out air pockets, and achieve better density deeper in the lift.
Best for:
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Clay-heavy soils
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Moist or sticky material
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Early-stage base work where deep compaction is needed
Smooth Drum
Smooth drums are exactly what they sound like—a continuous steel surface for even, high-speed compaction. They’re ideal for granular materials like sand, gravel, and crushed rock, and they excel at creating a flat, sealed surface for finishing. Smooth drums are often used after a padfoot has done the heavy lifting, especially in roadbuilding where surface quality matters.
Best for:
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Granular soils, sand, gravel, rock
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Finish passes on roads and pads
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Projects where surface smoothness is critical
Tip: Many modern rollers, including our XCMG models, offer bolt-on smooth drum shells for padfoot rollers—giving you the versatility to switch between deep compaction and final finish work without needing two separate machines.
The Comparison: XS115PDG vs XS125PD vs CV163
This month, we delivered a brand-new XS115PDG with Dual Pumps to a long-time customer (thanks for trusting JAPA!). It got us thinking—it’s time to break down how this model compares to the other 84" machines we have available: the XS125PD and the CV163PD (soon to be the XS165PD).
1️⃣ XS115PDG — Smooth Operator with Dual Pumps
Best for: Operators who want precision control, excellent climbability, and premium performance.
The XS115PDG’s dual-pump drive system means maximum drive efficiency, better traction on slopes, tighter turning radius, and incredibly smooth control during operation. If you’re working on varied terrain or in tighter spaces where maneuverability is key, this machine shines.
Quick Specs:
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Drum Width: 84" padfoot
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Drive System: Dual pumps
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Key Strengths: Tight turning, ultra-smooth control, better on slopes
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Ideal Use: Mixed terrain, projects where control is just as important as compaction power
2️⃣ XS125PD — The Budget-Friendly Powerhouse
Best for: Contractors looking for solid performance at the best possible price.
The XS125PD runs a single-pump drive system and carries slightly more weight than the XS115PDG. That extra weight gives it strong compaction force, making it a great choice for most standard soil compaction jobs—without stretching your budget.
Quick Specs:
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Drum Width: 84" padfoot
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Drive System: Single pump
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Key Strengths: Heavier weight for more compaction power, lower price point
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Ideal Use: Standard roadbuilding, subdivision, and site-prep work where value is key
3️⃣ CV163PD (Soon to be XS165PD) — Heavy-Duty Muscle
Best for: Large-scale jobs that demand maximum compaction in fewer passes.
This model packs more horsepower and significantly more drum weight than the XS115 or XS125. It’s built for high-production work—think highway projects, large industrial sites, or heavy fill areas where speed and density matter most. The name will soon change to XS165PD, but the big-machine performance stays the same.
Quick Specs:
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Drum Width: 84" padfoot
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Drive System: Single pump
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Key Strengths: Highest horsepower, heaviest drum weight, maximum output per pass
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Ideal Use: Heavy-duty compaction on large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects
So… Which One is Right for You?
At the end of the day, there’s no wrong choice—only the right tool for your job:
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XS115PDG: Precision, control, and maneuverability
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XS125PD: Balanced power and price
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CV163PD / XS165PD: Maximum horsepower and drum weight for big jobs
Our sales and rental teams can help you match the right machine to your site conditions, production goals, and budget. Whether you’re renting for the season or adding to your fleet, JAPA has Alberta’s best selection of XCMG 84" padfoot rollers ready to work.
📞 Contact Us
Ready to get rolling? Call our Edmonton (Acheson) branch at 780-962-5272 or Calgary branch at 403-300-5272 today, or visit the product pages at japamachinery.com to learn more.
