Need a post hole digger...suggestions?

[joerocker]

I'm looking for an inexpensive post hole digger to dig holes in my red Alabama clay. No rocks, maybe some roots as I'll be close to the tree line.

I've heard that I should get a 12" auger for 6" posts because they don't dig straight in. I've also heard that using 12" is stupid because they DO dig straight and a hole that big will be weak when the dirt is repacked and I should use a 6" auger for 6" posts. Comments?

Any suggestions on a digger? I've seen Leinbach L7200 and L7300 on ebay. What is the differance between them? I can get a Howse locally for about $500 with a 6" auger. I have a Chinese FarmPro 2420 (Jinma), 20HP, Cat 1 3PH. I'm looking for "good enough" and low cost. Any other brands? Any suggestions on where to get one?

Thanks guys...

 

[gotrocks]

I purchased Leinbach with 12" in '95 for $446. I have never been able to keep it staight down in the exact spot desired. With a 12" hole you can get a "tamper" to work OK. I don't think You would be happy with a 6"auger for 6" posts.
When I finally wore out the cutting edge, Leinbach sent me replacement PDQ.

 

[roxynoodle]

They can be hard to get straight in. A 12" auger is very useful if you are putting up a fence that has to be perfect, such as PVC or split rail. You get a lot more wiggle room to get those posts exactly where they need to be.

As for inexpensive, check the PHDs that TSC sells. You may also have an implement dealer with cheaper ones than that. I paid $365 for one with a 12" auger. No problems with it so far.

I think the absolute smallest auger you can use with 6" posts would be a 9" auger. The 6" augers are for 4" posts.

 

[Tom_H]

You might check http://northerntool.com They are probably close to the TSC price, but shipping would likely be more.

 

[flusher]

I need to rebuild about 1/4 mile of fence next year, so I've be checking the options.

a) A post driver will set the posts vertical without the need for oversize holes and backfilling.But the cheapest PD is ~$3K and you need a tractor that can supply 10-20 gpm to the auxiliary hydraulic port.

b) A hydraulic auger can be attached to the side of the FEL bucket and will drill a vertical hole that will tight-fit the post. The FEL can provide some down force on the auger to help it bite in. Plan to spend at least $1.5K for the equipment and have at least 5 gpm at the auxiliary hydraulic port.

c) The cheapie 3pt PHD. Most people drill oversize holes and then use sakrete to hold the post vertical. Lotsa extra work, but relatively inexpensive.

I don't know yet what option I'll pick, but I like the post driver approach.

 

[DavidPerry]

Rhino Tool makes a pnuematic post driver. It needs 40 cfm compressed air but a compressor trailer might be easy to rent.

http://www.rhinotool.com/pd55.html

 

[rickmacheske]

If you plan on putting some posts in concrete and without I would do the following:

6" no concrete - 9" hole
6" with concrete - 12" hole
4" no concrete - 6" hole
4" with concrete - 9" hole

My neighbor has one for his skid steer that I borrow so I can't help you out on a brand