Augering

[3327]

I am a newby when it comes to using a post hole auger with my tractor. I borrowed one resently to use on my Mahindra E350 tractor and was wondering if there was a way to increase the hydraulic pressure to put more pressure down on the auger when in the hole? It takes a lot longer to auger a hole than what I expected.

 

[JimRB]

Sharp teeth helps. Some put weights on the 3 point hitch arms. Folks that have extra hydraulics in back have put in a system that applies downward force. Dull teeth and digging in a drought are the worst.

 

[3327]

Thanks for the info. I did sharpen the teeth. I will try some weights or wait until it rains.

 

[Kaliburz]

Most of the augers are "basic". They use a screw type tip and very "basic" teeth (ie stamped type steel). The screw type tip doesn't work that well, needs to be a fish tail type break up the soil/ground. The teeth, if the bolt on type, can sometimes twist..... We have one auger with hammer in teeth (welded in holder) and that digs great.

Or, you haul some water out to the hole and soak the ground the night before (drill as far as you can, fill w/ water....wait...try again...) If yo use weights, put it near the end of the boom near the gear box if possible.

 

[trktrman]

Good advice so far. Whatever you do, make sure that you and everyone else is as FAR AWAY as possible when that auger is spinning or even thinking about spinning!!

 

[3327]

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the advice. I do not let anyone around where I am working with the auger. I have heard too many horror stories.

 

[Kaliburz]

Yes, don't add water in the hole while the thing is spinning.....no, no, no. Shut off the auger for sure!!!