BH only specs this unit for up to a 9" auger. I purchased an 18" auger and have dug all of the holes for a barn (9@18"x48"/ea) with no problems. Still using the original shear pin (my land is not very rocky and the moisture content of the dirt was optimal at the time). My understanding (unconfirmed) is that it is the same gearbox supplied with the PHD-2102 which is spec'd for an 18" auger. The rub is that this unit comes with a light weight PTO shaft which requires the special shear pins. So if you have very rocky land, or want to be able to work the thing real hard, consider going with the 2102 which uses a common shear bolt.

I had to scrape thick paint off of the 3 PT pins before it would mount to the tractor. And the safety sleeve which came with an optional auger extension was machined wrong (holes not aligned so couldn't be used). However, the extension works fine without the safety sleeve.

I looked at several brands and the more generic ones (e.g., International) were certainly a better price point. But I only wanted to have to do the research to purchase once, and wanted good availability of parts/supplies if/when I need them. Given that criteria, it is hard to beat the "big names."

Date Purchased: 6/2002
Purchased: New
Price Paid: US$675
Pros: Well built, works as advertised.
Cons: Proprietary shear pin ($5-8/ea).
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