Abstract: A modular refuse compactor having a shiftable rear compacting platen mounted at the lower end of an electro-hydraulic operated cylinder piston rod, and camming means to shift a folded front compacting platen from a vertical position to a horizontal position during downward movement of the rear platen and retain it in said horizontal position as an extension of said rear platen on the compacting cycle, and return it to the vertical position upon the retraction of the rear compacting platen, and appropriate cams and followers to effect such action.